What is the significance of Mount Hermon in the Bible?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Mount Hermon, significant as the northern border of the Promised Land and the source of the Jordan River, symbolizes unity and blessing as mentioned in Psalm 133:3. Historically, it was a place of worship for Baal and where Moses defeated Og, King of Bashan. Caesarea Philippi at Mount Hermon's base is where Peter declared Jesus as the Christ. Mount Hermon, with its soaring height and three snow-capped peaks, has long been considered a holy mountain both by Israelites and others who have inhabited the area. It is an important site both historically and religiously, as well as an important landmark geographically in the region.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Mount Hermon has long marked the northern border of the Promised Land as mentioned in Deuteronomy 4:48, Joshua 11:17, 1 Chronicles 5:23, and Psalm 42:6.
• This snow-capped mountain is also where the Jordan River begins. The headwaters flow from Mount Hermon down to the Sea of Galilee, bringing life and lushness to northern Israel.
• The psalmist compares brothers living in unity to "the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the LORD has commanded the blessing, life forevermore" (Psalm 133:3).
• Historically, Mount Hermon was home to the Sidonians, who called it Mount Sirion, and the Amorites, who called it Senir (Deuteronomy 3:9).
• Moses defeated Og King of Bashan at Mount Hermon before being prohibited from crossing the Jordan River further into the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 3:8–10).
• The Canaanites used Mount Hermon as a place of worship for the pagan god Baal, and many temple sites have been discovered in its caves.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The city of Caesarea Philippi during Jesus' time sat at Mount Hermon's base. It is here that Peter declared Jesus was "the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Matthew 16:16).
• This mountain may also be where Jesus' transfiguration occurred when Peter, James, and John got to witness Jesus in all His heavenly glory (Matthew 17:1–9).

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Mount Hermon's significance as a source of life-giving water and its mention in Psalm 133:3 reminds us where blessing comes from. Just as the dew of Hermon brings blessing and life, God gives us eternal life and everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). The dew of Hermon, renowned for its richness and life-giving properties, represents God's abundant grace and favor. As the dew nourishes the land, so unity among God's people brings spiritual nourishment and blessings. The reference to Zion, where God's presence is believed to dwell, emphasizes the spiritual significance of Jerusalem as the source of divine blessing and eternal life.

UNDERSTAND

• Mount Hermon marks the northern border of the Promised Land and is the source of the Jordan River, bringing life to northern Israel.
• Known as Mount Sirion to the Sidonians and Senir to the Amorites, Mount Hermon was a place of ancient worship for Baal and where Moses defeated Og, King of Bashan.
• Caesarea Philippi at Mount Hermon's base is where Peter declared Jesus as the Christ.

REFLECT

• How does Mount Hermon’s features deepen your understanding of God's sovereignty and provision?
• How can the symbolism of Mount Hermon as a source of blessing and life in Psalm 133:3 inspire you to seek unity and spiritual nourishment in your own life?
• Consider the contrast between the pagan worship on Mount Hermon and its biblical significance. How does this reflect the ongoing tension between worldly influences and God's purposes in your own spiritual journey?

ENGAGE

• Mount Hermon is Israel's highest mountain at over 9,000 feet. Its three distinct peaks are visible from the Sea of Galilee some 60 miles away. Because of its height, it is also considered to be the holiest mountain in Israel. This mountain forms Israel's northeastern border with Syria and Lebanon. Mount Hermon's southern slopes are known as the Golan Heights in Israel and its northern face is owned by Syria.
• Consider the historical events associated with Mount Hermon in both the Old and New Testaments. How do these stories shape our understanding of God's redemptive plan and His revelation even through geographical landmarks?
• Reflect on Peter's declaration of Jesus as the Christ at Caesarea Philippi, situated at the base of Mount Hermon. How does this location add depth to Peter's confession?