Baptism Site – Bethany Beyond the Jordan

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes | October 25, 2022

https://www.weekendnotes.com/baptism-site-bethany-beyond-the-jordan/

Any spiritual journey to Jordan will include a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan,” the land east of the Jordan River designated in ancient times as a place of refuge that links the lives of Abraham, Lot, Moses, Job, David, Ruth, Elijah, John the Baptist, and Jesus. It is at this point where John, who lived east of the River Jordan opposite Jericho, met Jesus, and baptized him. Note that the River Jordan arrived at this point at the time Jesus was baptized, when the churches were built, and John the Baptist Spring met the Jordan river here. Today the river is further away, but still within easy walking distance. Just seven miles north of the Dead Sea, it’s an easy drive from your Dead Sea resort hotel or about an hour from Amman.

Upon entry to the area, you’re likely to first pull up to the roadside markers, one a gift from Pope John Paul II following his 2000 AD visit.

I will keep all the people of Jordan—Christian and Muslim—in my prayers, especially the sick and the elderly, with gratitude. I invoke abundant blessings upon His Majesty, the King, and upon the whole nation. God bless you all. Bless Jordan.” – Pope John Paul II

Pilgrims who described the site include Theodosius (AD 530), Antoninus of Piacenza (AD 570),
Arculfus of France (670 AD), Epiphanius (AD 750-800), and Abbot Daniel (AD 1106 -1107). Their testimonies encouraged pilgrimages since the late Roman–early Byzantine periods.

Pro Tip: Add some mint essential oil to your nostrils to decrease the odor from the fly-catching traps along the path. And consider bringing a “horse tail” fly swatter. The flies will run you out long before you’re ready to go.

John answered them, ‘I baptize with water; but among you stands one whom you do not know, even he who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.’ This took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.”