Introduction
The Bible is considered to be one of the most revered books, which has stood the test of time. For many, the Bible is a source of spirituality, inspiration and religious guidance. As such, it records in detail the stories and happenings of many brave people – the pious, the disobedient, the courageous, and the hopeful. Included in these stories is that of a powerful river that has been drying up, leaving a lasting legacy on the biblical land.
Context of the River
The Ancient and Holy Bible specifically talks of a river that flows through and affects three main areas; the Jordan River valley, the Sea of Galilee, and the Dead Sea. This river, known as the Jordan River, is considered to be the lifeline for the region, and the source of water for the sustainment of life in those areas. Spanning across a variety of countries, the Jordan River has played a significant role in the holistic development of the region. In fact, the river is even mentioned in the Holy Bible over two hundred times, making it quite a significant source of biblical symbols and teachings.
Significance of the River in the Bible
The very presence of the river in the biblical stories is a clear sign of its great significance in the Bible. It is described as a “great and powerful river” and is the source of baptisms, journeys and symbolisms. It is through this river that John the Baptist baptized Jesus, and that God told Moses to take the Israelites across the river to the promised land. For many people, the Jordan River carries a magical connotation that speaks of life, religious discovery and rebirth.
The Impact of the Jordan River’s Drying
The Jordan River has been drying up over centuries as human negligence has affected its sustainability. This means that water is pulled from the water sources if the region, to fuel industrial development. As a result, a once great and powerful river has been left with a mere two percent of its original capacity, with many parts completely dry.
Environmentalists have been rallying for the conservation and preservation of the river for years, pointing out the serious implications that the drying of the river has for the region. As the major source of water for the region, the drying up has caused major water shortages. It has also led to soil erosion and the salinization of the land, completely transforming its look and use-value.
Responses from Governments
Several governments in the region have committed to the preservation of the Jordan River. Some countries have agreed to divert water from other sources to help replenish the river while other countries have laid out plans to construct dams or desalination plants to filter out the saline elements in the water.
International organizations such as the Society for the East Mediterranean Baths (SEMB) and the World Bank-led Jordan River Rehabilitation Program (JRRRP) are also working hard to implement strategies and plans of action to revive the river and the region.
Non Profit Organizations
A variety of non-profit organizations have been established to help protect, revive and restore the Jordan River. These organizations are focused on educating the public at large on the plight of the river, as well as seeking grants and other forms of funding to conduct research and develop strategies for restoration.
The Kabbal River Project and the EcoPeace Middle East are two such organizations dedicated to the spread of awareness and the execution of projects aimed at the revival of the river.
Public Opinion and Perception
Public opinion concerning the Jordan River has been mixed. Some people view the drying of the river as an inevitable consequence of human negligence, while others view it as an inevitable result of a divine presence that had promises its sustenance.
However, the general consensus among most is that the human race has a responsibility to protect the environment and to preserve the natural surrounding of our planet, as this is something that we are given to sustain, not destroy.
Jordan River Action Committee
Most recently, the Jordan River Action Committee (JRAC) has been formed to advocate for the revival of the river. The committee consists of Israeli, Jordanian, Palestinian and international partners, including representatives from government, religious and environmental organizations. This committee is working hard to execute plans and strategies to reduce the water woes of the region, in hope that it would eventually lead to the resurrection of the Jordan River.
Global Movement
The drying up of the Jordan River has sparked a global movement that is of keen interest to environmentalists the world over. Such a movement is focused on the development and implementation of strategies aimed at the conservation, preservation and eventual revival of the river. This has enabled certain initiatives, organizations and governments to come together and collaborate in their efforts, in an unprecedented way.
As for the Jordan River and the other big rivers that are drying up, this is a reminder to us of our responsibility to keep our planet healthy and thriving, by making conscious choices and understanding that our actions have a profound impact on the world. In this way, we can all learn from the Jordan River’s plight and use it as an example of how we can come together to protect our home.
Conclusion of Studies and Hacks Used
As of now, several studies, hacks and plans are being undertaken in order to revive the Jordan River. For instance, a ground-up, community-based solution has been applied in Jordan, called “Green for Jordan”, that helps to replenish the river through large-scale rainwater harvesting and managed irrigation. This is also closely followed by the solar-powered desalination plant, which allows freshwater from the Mediterranean Sea to be made available for people in Jordan and Israel.
Another solution, put forward by experts such as Prof. Robert Mason from the University of Utah, suggests that one way to revive the Jordan River would be to pump the water from the tributaries back into the river. Through the use of hydro-electric machines, the water can then be used to generate electricity and be supplied to the region.
Additionally, there are plans to develop a Jordan Water Management Project (JWMP) which could help to bring together all the actors in the region, research institutes, water authorities, non-profits and representatives of the citizens, in order to come up with better strategies and plans to stabilize the environmental and economic conditions of the region.
Overall Impact
Although there is still time and a long way to go before the river can be fully revived, its proponents have high hopes that it is possible. The research, studies and projects being undertaken by various actors attest to this. Ultimately, what we should take away from this is that our planet is a treasure trove that should be protected and conserved at all costs. From the very pages of the Holy Bible, this message of protection continues to prevail, and could serve as a blueprint for action and the conservation of other rivers and water sources around the world.
