perhaps for צְרֵדָה; Tsarethan, a place in Palestine; Zarthan. q
Transliteration:Tsârᵉthân
Pronunciation:tsaw-reth-awn'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term צָרְתָן (Tsârᵉthân, `{{H6891}}`) designates a specific geographical location within ancient Palestine. As a proper noun, its semantic range is primarily fixed to this particular place. The base definition suggests a possible etymological or scribal connection to צְרֵדָה (Tseredah, `{{H6868}}`), though this remains a point of scholarly discussion regarding whether they refer to the same location, a region, or closely associated places. While the precise meaning of the root from which the name derives is not explicitly provided or readily apparent, its function in the biblical text is to serve as a geographical marker, anchoring significant events to a specific point on the landscape. Its identity as a place name implies a fixed, singular reference rather than a broad conceptual meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Tsârᵉthân (Zarthan) appears in three key passages, each shedding light on its geographical importance and role in Israelite history:
1. **[[Joshua 3:16]]**: This verse places Zarthan in the context of the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites. The waters "stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zarethan." This account highlights Zarthan's proximity to the Jordan River and its role as a geographical landmark during one of the most pivotal moments in Israel's entry into the Promised Land. The divine intervention that caused the waters to pile up "beside Zarethan" underscores God's power and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.
2. **[[1 Kings 4:12]]**: Here, "Zartanah" (a variant transliteration of `{{H6891}}`) is mentioned as part of one of Solomon's twelve administrative districts. Baana son of Ahilud was in charge of "Taanach and Megiddo, and all Bethshean, which is by Zartanah beneath Jezreel, from Bethshean to Abelmeholah, even unto the place that is beyond Jokneam." This verse suggests Zarthan's inclusion within a broader administrative or geographical region, possibly indicating its significance as a regional center or a well-known landmark used for defining boundaries. Its placement "by Zartanah beneath Jezreel" points to its location in the northern Jordan Valley, consistent with the Joshua account.
3. **[[1 Kings 7:46]]**: This passage describes the location where the bronze furnishings for Solomon's Temple were cast: "In the plain of Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay ground between Succoth and Zarthan." This is arguably the most significant occurrence, as it pinpoints Zarthan as the site of the sacred craftsmanship for the House of the Lord. The fertile clay ground in the Jordan Valley between Succoth (`{{H5523}}`) and Zarthan provided the ideal material and location for such a massive undertaking, further solidifying Zarthan's identity as a place of practical and theological importance in Israel's sacred history.
Across these occurrences, Zarthan consistently appears in the Jordan Valley, serving as a crucial geographical marker for both miraculous divine acts and significant human endeavors related to Israel's national and religious life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is צְרֵדָה (Tseredah, `{{H6868}}`), which the Strong's definition for Tsârᵉthân suggests as a possible linguistic or geographical equivalent ("perhaps for צְרֵדָה"). Tseredah is known as the birthplace of Jeroboam I ([[1 Kings 11:26]]), who later led the northern tribes in secession from the Davidic monarchy. If Tsârᵉthân and Tseredah are indeed the same or closely related locations, it would imbue Zarthan with an additional layer of historical and theological complexity, connecting it not only to the establishment of the Israelite kingdom and Temple worship but also to the subsequent division and apostasy.
Beyond this specific linguistic link, Zarthan is conceptually related to:
* **The Jordan River**: Its consistent placement near the Jordan makes it intrinsically linked to this vital geographical and theological artery of the Holy Land, which witnessed numerous divine interventions and key historical events.
* **Miraculous Divine Action**: The Israelite crossing of the Jordan at [[Joshua 3:16]] highlights God's power over creation and His active involvement in the history of His people.
* **Temple Construction**: Its role as the casting site for the Temple's bronze vessels ([[1 Kings 7:46]]) connects it directly to the worship of Yahweh and the establishment of the central sanctuary in Jerusalem.
* **Sacred Craftsmanship**: The skilled work performed there for the Temple underscores the value of human labor dedicated to divine purposes.
### Theological Significance
Though a mere place name, Tsârᵉthân holds profound theological significance through the events it witnessed and facilitated.
Firstly, its mention in [[Joshua 3:16]] links it directly to the miraculous Jordan River crossing, a foundational event in Israel's history. This act demonstrated God's covenant faithfulness, His power to overcome natural barriers, and His active leading of His people into the Promised Land. Zarthan thus becomes a silent witness to divine intervention, a geographical anchor for a moment that solidified Israel's identity as God's chosen nation. It speaks to the fulfillment of divine promises and the triumph of faith over adversity.
Secondly, Zarthan's role as the casting site for the bronze furnishings of Solomon's Temple ([[1 Kings 7:46]]) imbues it with sacred significance. The very ground of Zarthan became instrumental in the creation of the sacred vessels and implements used in the worship of Yahweh. This connects Zarthan to the very heart of Israelite cultic life and the physical manifestation of God's dwelling among His people. It underscores the idea that even seemingly mundane locations can be consecrated through their involvement in divine purposes, becoming sites where human skill and divine design converge for the glory of God. The craftsmanship required for these items, cast in the clay of Zarthan, speaks to the beauty and precision demanded in the service of the Lord.
In summary, Zarthan is not merely a geographical point but a place divinely chosen and historically significant, bearing witness to both the miraculous power of God in establishing His people and the dedicated labor of humanity in constructing His sanctuary.
### Summary
Tsârᵉthân (Zarthan, `{{H6891}}`) is a significant geographical location in the Jordan Valley, possibly synonymous with or closely related to Tseredah (`{{H6868}}`). Its biblical occurrences firmly place it near the Jordan River, making it a key landmark in Israelite history. Zarthan is most notably associated with two pivotal events: the miraculous piling up of the Jordan waters during Israel's crossing into the Promised Land ([[Joshua 3:16]]), and the casting of the large bronze vessels and furnishings for Solomon's Temple ([[1 Kings 7:46]]). These associations imbue Zarthan with deep theological meaning, connecting it to divine intervention, the fulfillment of covenant promises, and the sacred craftsmanship dedicated to the worship of God. As a place where God's power was dramatically displayed and where essential elements for His dwelling were forged, Zarthan stands as a testament to God's active presence and purpose within the history of His people.
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