Pishon

The Pishon (Hebrew: פִּישׁוֹן‎) is one of the four rivers mentioned in the biblical Book of Genesis as emanating from the Garden of Eden. Genesis 2:11 states: "The name of the first [river] is Pishon; it winds through the entire land of Havilah, where there is gold."

The identification of the Pishon River with a specific modern river is uncertain and subject to debate. Various theories have been proposed, linking it to rivers such as the Ganges, the Indus, and even a now-vanished river system in the Arabian Peninsula.

• Identification Theories: Due to the lack of definitive geographical context and potential geological changes since the time the Book of Genesis was written, pinpointing the Pishon's location is challenging. Some scholars suggest it was a river system that no longer exists in its original form, possibly dried up or altered by tectonic activity. Others attempt to correlate the Pishon with existing river systems based on the descriptions in Genesis, particularly the association with gold and the land of Havilah.

• Havilah: The land of Havilah, described as being encircled by the Pishon, is also of uncertain location. It is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, including in genealogical accounts, but these references do not provide precise geographical clues. The association with gold has led some to speculate that Havilah was located in a region known for gold deposits.

• Significance: Beyond the geographical mystery, the Pishon, along with the other three rivers of Eden (Gihon, Tigris, and Euphrates), holds symbolic significance as a source of life and abundance originating from paradise. The description of the Pishon contributes to the portrayal of Eden as a place of immense natural resources and beauty.