Event 2

Yardenit is a popular baptism site. Here, the water flows into the Jordan River, eventually flowing into the Dead Sea located more than 100KM to the south. This site is believed by some traditions to be the actual site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist (Matthew 3: 13 : "Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John"). It was an important turning point event in the life of Jesus.

Many Christian pilgrims stop at this site and perform baptism ceremonies, normally in small groups and accompanied by the group's pastor. It is a remarkable, charming site and should not be missed.

Since the New Testament texts do not provide an identification with a known landmark, there are several traditions on the site along the long Jordan River. Some point to the Yardenit area closer to the Sea of Galilee, some go south to Beit Shean, others to Jericho, way down the river.

For more info on this site, click here

Mk 1:9-11:"And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased".

Mt 3:13-17: "Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased".

Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan river

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