ARARAT PLAIN Meaning and
Definition
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The Ararat plain is a geographical region located in eastern Turkey, near the border with Armenia. It is named after Mount Ararat, a snow-capped volcanic peak that stands at an elevation of 5,137 meters (16,854 feet) and dominates the landscape of the plain. The Ararat plain is a vast area of flat, fertile land that stretches out at the foot of the mountain, encompassing approximately 1,780 square kilometers (688 square miles).
This plain holds great significance from both historical and religious perspectives. It is renowned for its rich agricultural potential, with abundant water resources from the Aras and Murat rivers making it an ideal area for cultivation. The region is primarily used for farming, with crops like wheat, barley, and vegetables being cultivated, as well as the production of fruits like grapes and apricots.
In addition to its agricultural importance, the Ararat plain plays a prominent role in religious texts, particularly in the story of Noah's Ark. According to the biblical account, it is believed that when the floodwaters subsided, Noah's Ark came to rest on the slopes of Mount Ararat. This religious significance has attracted explorers and adventurers throughout history, who have ventured to the Ararat plain in search of evidence of the Ark's existence.
Overall, the Ararat plain is a region of great natural beauty, historical importance, and religious significance, attracting both scholars and tourists alike. Its unique combination of fertile land and stunning mountainous backdrop makes it a remarkable and captivating landscape in eastern Turkey.
Etymology of ARARAT PLAIN
The word "Ararat" is derived from the Hebrew אֲרָרָט (Ararat). It is believed to come from the ancient Semitic language Akkadian, specifically the word "Urartu", which referred to the kingdom that existed in the region surrounding Mount Ararat in the ancient Near East. The word "plain" in the Ararat plain refers to a flat, expansive area suitable for agriculture.
