Bible Geography · Transjordan, East of the Jordan River · c. 100 BC – AD 100
Perea
Description
Perea, meaning 'the land beyond,' stretched along the eastern bank of the Jordan River from roughly the Jabbok River in the north to Machaerus in the south. It was the Jewish portion of Herod Antipas's territory east of the Jordan and served as an important route between Galilee and Judea for Jews who avoided Samaria.
Significance
John the Baptist's ministry in Perea near the Jordan fords was strategically placed on the major pilgrimage route, ensuring a wide audience for his call to repentance. Jesus also ministered extensively in Perea during his later Judean ministry, and it was likely the route he took on his final journey to Jerusalem.
Key Events
John the Baptist preached repentance and baptized in the Jordan River near Perea; John was arrested and imprisoned at Machaerus fortress; Jesus taught in Perea on marriage and divorce; the raising of Lazarus occurred just across the Jordan at Bethany.
Modern Context
Ancient Perea falls within modern Jordan, corresponding to the area around Madaba and the northern shores of the Dead Sea. The fortress of Machaerus, where John the Baptist was imprisoned and executed, has been identified at a site in Jordan and is under active archaeological excavation.