### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yardên**, represented by `{{H3383}}`, is derived from `{{H3381}}`, meaning "a descender," and identifies the **Jordan**, the principal river of Palestine. It appears **182 times** across **164 unique verses**, establishing it as a critical geographical and theological feature in the biblical narrative. It is frequently presented as a boundary, a place of divine intervention, and a symbol of transition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3383}}` is central to Israel's history. It is the final barrier crossed by the Israelites before entering the promised land, with God miraculously drying up its waters to allow their passage ([[Joshua 5:1]], [[Joshua 4:23]]). This event is set up as a perpetual "memorial unto the children of Israel" [[Joshua 4:7]]. The river is also a significant regional border, with frequent references to lands and peoples "on this side Jordan" or "beyond Jordan" ([[Numbers 32:19]], [[Deuteronomy 4:46]]). In a notable account of healing, Naaman the Syrian is cleansed of his leprosy after washing in the **Jordan** seven times as instructed by the prophet Elisha [[2 Kings 5:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and significance of the Jordan:
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend): As the root word, it reflects the geographical nature of the Jordan as a "descender." This is seen in the description of its waters which "come down from above" [[Joshua 3:13]].
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over): This verb is consistently paired with **Yardên** to describe the pivotal act of crossing the **Jordan**, a moment that marks the transition from the wilderness into the land of inheritance ([[Deuteronomy 9:1]], [[Joshua 3:17]]).
* `{{H5676}}` **ʻêber** (beyond, other side): This term is used to designate the lands to the east or west of the river, emphasizing the **Jordan's** role as a fundamental divider of territories ([[Genesis 50:11]], [[Joshua 24:8]]).
* `{{H6160}}` **ʻărâbâh** (plain, desert): This describes the valley through which the river flows, often mentioned as the "plains of Moab by **Jordan** near Jericho" [[Numbers 36:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3383}}` is significant, representing key divine actions and principles.
* **Divine Power Over Nature:** The parting of the **Jordan** is a powerful demonstration of God's authority over creation, serving as a sign to the nations that the hand of the LORD is mighty ([[Joshua 4:23]], [[Psalms 114:3]]).
* **Threshold of Promise:** Crossing the **Jordan** is the culminating moment of the exodus, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's covenant to give Israel the land "to possess it" ([[Deuteronomy 4:26]], [[Joshua 1:11]]).
* **Cleansing and Restoration:** The healing of Naaman in the **Jordan's** waters provides a physical illustration of spiritual purification and renewal, where his flesh was restored like that of a child [[2 Kings 5:14]].
* **Metaphor for Overwhelming Challenge:** The "swelling of Jordan" `{{H1347}}` is used metaphorically to depict an insurmountable trial, a test of faith and endurance that goes beyond ordinary human strength ([[Jeremiah 12:5]], [[Jeremiah 49:19]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3383}}` **Yardên** transcends its identity as a mere geographical feature. It is a defining border in Israel's history, the stage for dramatic miracles that reveal God's power, and a potent symbol of the transition from wandering to promise. The crossing of the **Jordan** is a foundational event, while the river itself serves as a lasting metaphor for both divine deliverance and life's greatest challenges.
TRV