### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂbânâh**, represented by `{{H71}}`, refers to **Abana**, a river near Damascus. The name is possibly derived from a word meaning "stony." It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse that highlights a conflict between human pride and divine instruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H71}}` is in [[2 Kings 5:12]]. In this passage, Naaman, a Syrian commander with leprosy, is told by the prophet Elisha to wash in the Jordan River to be healed. Enraged by the simple command, Naaman compares the rivers of his homeland to those of Israel, exclaiming, "Are not **Abana** and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean?" This use of **ʼĂbânâh** establishes it as a symbol of what Naaman perceives as superior, setting the stage for a lesson in humility and obedience.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide geographical and thematic context to the story of **ʼĂbânâh**:
* `{{H549}}` **ʼĂmânâh**: Defined as **Amanah, a mountain near Damascus**. The base definition for `{{H71}}` explicitly compares it to this word, and it is referenced alongside `{{H71}}` in its only biblical appearance [[2 Kings 5:12]].
* `{{H6554}}` **Parpar**: This term refers to **Parpar, a river of Syria**. It is mentioned in direct partnership with **Abana** by Naaman as one of the great rivers of Damascus [[2 Kings 5:12]].
* `{{H5104}}` **nâhâr**: Meaning a **stream** or **river**, this word is used to categorize both **Abana** and Parpar, as well as to describe the rivers God provides for His people [[Isaiah 43:19]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim**: This is the general Hebrew word for **water**. Naaman contrasts the waters of **Abana** with "all the **waters** of Israel," believing his own to be of better quality for cleansing [[2 Kings 5:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H71}}` is derived entirely from its contextual role in Naaman's story. It serves as a key element in illustrating several important themes:
* **Human Pride vs. Divine Method:** Naaman's preference for the **Abana** river symbolizes human logic and pride. He questions God's chosen method because his own rivers seem more impressive and logical for the task of cleansing [[2 Kings 5:12]].
* **The Nature of Cleansing:** The central conflict is about how one can "be clean" `{{H2891}}`. Naaman believes washing `{{H7364}}` in the superior **Abana** should suffice. However, the narrative reveals that true cleansing comes not from the quality of the instrument, but from obedience to the divine command [[2 Kings 5:13-14]].
* **Spiritual Purity:** The act of becoming physically "clean" `{{H2891}}` from leprosy points to the broader biblical concept of spiritual purification. God's promise is to "sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean" from filthiness and idols [[Ezekiel 36:25]], an act that requires submission, not just a physical washing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H71}}` **ʼĂbânâh** is more than just the name of a river. Though mentioned only once, it plays a pivotal role in the narrative of 2 Kings 5. It stands as a symbol of worldly prestige and human reasoning, contrasted with the humble means God chooses to demonstrate His power. The story uses **Abana** to teach that true healing and cleansing are found not in what seems best to man, but in simple obedience to God's word.
TRV