Genesis 2:11

King James Bible

"The name of the first is Pison: that is it which compasseth the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold;"

Commentary

This identifies the first of four rivers flowing from Eden, establishing the garden's location in real geography. Ancient readers would have recognized these river names, though Pison's exact location remains uncertain to modern scholars. The river encircles or borders Havilah, a region possibly in Arabia or northeastern Africa known for its mineral wealth. This geographical detail emphasizes Eden's connection to the known ancient world rather than presenting it as purely mythical space. The mention of gold highlights the land's abundance and value, suggesting Eden's proximity to material blessings. This detail foreshadows humanity's relationship with earth's resources and hints at the richness of God's original provision.

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