The Jordan River is the third largest river in the Middle East that has a permanent, year-round flow. It runs through Lebanon, Syria, Israel, Palestine, and Jordan. It flows through the Sea of Galilee (Lake Tiberias) and into the Dead and Red Seas.

Because the Jordan River runs through several countries, it historically has been a source of conflict. Israel and Jordan get the majority of their water from the river. Since the environment surrounding the river is arid, access to water from the river is essential to support the growth and development of the region.

The Jordan River is mentioned numerous times in the religious writings of the Christian Bible, including the location of the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist.

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Text: Shawna Irish; Image: Adam Sewall