Zarethan in the Bible — Hidden Meaning & Symbolism

Zarethan (in A. V., Joshua 3:16, Zaretan; I Kings 4:12, Zartanah; I Kings 7:46, Zarthan), zar'–e–than (Heb.)-- piercing; penetrating; cooling. A place near which the Israelites crossed the river Jordan when they entered the Promised Land (Josh. 3:16). In the clay ground between Succoth and Zarethan the vessels that were made by Hiram, king of Tyre, for Solomon's Temple were"cast" or formed, as in a mold (see I Kings 7:46). Meta. The process of an idea's finding entrance into the consciousness or into substance, and taking on form and shape; or, substance emerging from the invisible and purely spiritual realm into outer or seemingly material expression and manifestation (piercing, penetrating, cooling, a place near which the vessels, basins, and many of the various parts and furnishings of the Temple were cast; also a place beside which the waters of the Jordan rose in a heap so that the Children of Israel crossed the river on dry ground).