Bethabara is referenced in the Book of Mormon as the location beyond the Jordan River where John the Baptist performed baptisms, including that of Jesus Christ. Lehi, a prophet in the Book of Mormon, specifically mentions Bethabara in a prophetic discourse to his sons, emphasizing its significance as the place where the Messiah would be baptized by John, with water, signifying the introduction of Christ’s earthly ministry (1 Nephi 10:9). While the exact location of Bethabara is not detailed within the Book of Mormon narrative, it is understood to be on the east bank of the Jordan River, likely at a natural crossing point opposite Jericho in the region known as Peraea. The name Bethabara itself translates from Hebrew as “place of crossing,” which would be consistent with its identification as a fording place used historically for passage across the river. Despite variations in manuscript readings, including associations with the name Bethany beyond Jordan in some biblical manuscripts, Bethabara remains a distinct landmark in scriptural records as the starting point of Christ’s public ministry.