In the biblical account of Naaman, the Syrian commander who suffered from leprosy, we find a reference to two significant rivers in the ancient city of Damascus—Abana and Pharpar. When the prophet Elisha directed Naaman to wash in the river Jordan to be cleansed of his leprosy, Naaman responded in 2 Kings 5:12 with a question tinged with pride and skepticism: “Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel?”
The Abana River
The Abana river, often identified as a branch of the Barrady (also known as Chrysorrhoas), originates from the foot of Mount Libanus to the east. This river plays a crucial role in the life of Damascus, as it flows through and around the city, providing a vital water source before disappearing into the wilderness, about four or five leagues south of Damascus.
According to historical accounts, such as those by Benjamin of Tudela, the Abana is likely the portion of the Barrady that flows directly through Damascus. This river was esteemed by the locals for its purity and life-giving properties, and it was considered far superior to the waters of Israel by those like Naaman, who were unfamiliar with the significance of the Jordan River.
The Pharpar River
The Pharpar river, also mentioned by Naaman, is another important waterway associated with Damascus. While there is some debate about its exact identification, it is often linked with the streams that water the gardens outside Damascus, further contributing to the city’s fertile surroundings. Some scholars suggest that the Pharpar could be the same as the Orontes River, the most renowned river in Syria. The Orontes rises slightly to the north or northeast of Damascus, traversing a picturesque plain before eventually reaching the Mediterranean Sea after passing through the ancient city of Antioch, covering a distance of around 200 miles.
Significance in the Narrative
Naaman’s mention of these rivers highlights his initial reluctance to follow Elisha’s instructions, as he could not comprehend why the waters of the Jordan were preferable to the more familiar and seemingly superior rivers of his homeland. However, the story ultimately serves to demonstrate the power and importance of obedience and faith, as Naaman’s eventual submission to the prophet’s words leads to his miraculous healing.
This account underscores the cultural and geographical pride that ancient people often held regarding their natural resources, while also illustrating the broader theme of divine authority and the unexpected means through which it often manifests.