Embark on a Pilgrimage: Unveiling the Wonders of the Jordan River
The Jordan River (known in Arabic as Nahr Al-Urdun and in Hebrew as Ha-Yarden) is one of the most famous rivers in history. The first thing visitors will notice when visiting the lower stretches of the Jordan River is that it is tiny. Even so, the Jordan River is one of the most significant attractions in Jordan and Israel today.
Israel boasts ancient sites like Jericho (oldest on Earth) near the Jordan River. Jordan offers the river alongside iconic Petra and Wadi Rum.
The River Flows To The Dead Sea But Is Disappearing
Rising near Mount Hermon (Lebanon-Syria border), this place flows 251 km (156 mi) through the valley to the Dead Sea (length varies by measurement).
Over its course, the river drops ever more below sea level to around 422 meters low sea level, where it empties into the Dead Sea. This last is the lowest point on earth (and one of the oldest held resorts). There is no exit from the Dead Sea, and all the water evaporates.
The structural depression it flows through has the lowest elevation of any river on Earth. The Jordan Valley is a northern extreme of the East African Rift System that runs through much of the continent of Africa.
- Length: 251 kilometers or 156 miles
This land is tiny. The water is generally silty and slow-moving. This is partly due to much of its water being diverted for agricultural use since 1964.
Why this river is so significant and main visiting site
The Jordan River is a key attraction for pilgrims in Israel and Jordan. It is frequently mentioned in the Bible, and it is said to be where John the Baptist baptized people (including Jesus of Nazareth). Today the river is of significance to both Judaism and Christianity.
- Main Baptism Site: Yadrenit Baptismal Site
- Admission: Free (White Ropes For Rent)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 am till 5:00 pm (Hours Vary)
It is popular for pilgrims to come and be baptized in the Jordan River – mostly in the first section of the Lower Jordan.
At the Yadrenit Baptismal site, the waters of the Jordan are relatively crisp and clean, located just at the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee. There are churches and monasteries found along the river as well.
source: https://www.thetravel.com/why-visit-the-jordan-river/
