Christ In Prophecy (Lion & Lamb Ministries) Holy Land Videos on HolyLandSite.com Christ In Prophecy Videos

The Jordan River is mentioned over 180 times in the Bible. It is the main River in Israel, supplying much of the country with water. Its total winding length is about 125 miles (200 km.). The meaning of “Jordan” in Hebrew is “descend.” Mount Hermon, Sea of Galilee, Yardenit Baptismal Site, Adam, Gilgal, Camp Gilgal, Jericho, Baptismal Site of Jesus, Israelite Crossing the Jordan River Site, Dead Sea Jordan River Overview Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jordan River Overview Location 1. The Jordan River begins at Mount Hermon in the northernmost part of Israel, flows into the Sea of Galilee, and then out and down to the Dead Sea. 2. The lower part of the river has the lowest elevation of any river in the world. 3. It’s the border between Israel and Jordan for much if its length. 4. Today, because of the high demands of water by both Israel and Jordan, little water makes it to the Dead Sea area. Historical Background 1. The Jordan River is mentioned over 180 times in the Bible. 2. It is the main River in Israel, supplying much of the country with water. 3. Its total winding length is about 125 miles (200 km.). 4. The meaning of “Jordan” in Hebrew is “descend.” This is true of the Jordan River as it literally descends thousands of feet from its inception to its ending, and all but the beginning part is below sea level. 5. However, there’s a deeper spiritual meaning to the word. In the same way we must descend to access the Jordan River’s waters physically, we must descend and humble ourselves before we can ascend spiritually. This concept is seen in many of the miracles that happened in and around its shores. Places of Interest 1. Mount Hermon: Rises to around 9,232 ft. (2,813 m.) above sea level and supplies the Jordan River with most of its water. 2. Hermon Stream Nature Reserve: Beginning area of the Jordan River. 3. Jordan River View: Nice viewing place where the river is wide and calm. 4. Sea of Galilee: The Jordan River flows into and out of the Sea of Galilee. 5. Yardenit Baptismal Site: Located just south of the Sea of Galilee. It’s a popular place where many pilgrims get baptized in the Jordan River. 6. Adam – Place the waters of the Jordan backed up to when the Israelites crossed the river (20 miles, 32 km. above crossing). 7. Baptismal Site of Jesus: Located across from Jericho, this is the believed place where Jesus was baptized. It’s also a popular place where many people get baptized today as well. 8. Crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites: Located close-by to the Baptismal Site of Jesus. 9. Camp Gilgal 10. Jericho 11. Dead Sea Jordan River in the Bible 1. Abraham entered the Promised Land through the gateway of the Jordan River Valley when he first journeyed from Ur of the Chaldeans (Gen. 12:1–9). 2. When Abraham and Lot divided their possessions, Lot chose to settle in the lower part of the Jordan River Valley. Genesis 13:10: And Lot lifted up his eyes and saw that the Jordan Valley was well watered everywhere like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, in the direction of Zoar. (This was before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.) 3. Before entering the Promised Land, the Israelites camped on the east side of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. Joshua 3:1: Then Joshua rose early in the morning, and they set out from Shittim. And they came to the Jordan , he and all the people of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over. 4. The Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground as God miraculously parted the waters. Joshua 3:14–17: So when the people set out from their tents to pass over the Jordan with the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people, 15 and as soon as those bearing the ark had come as far as the Jordan , and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the brink of the water (now the Jordan overflows all its banks throughout the time of harvest), 16 the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap very far away, at Adam [20 miles, 32 km. north], the city that is beside Zarethan, and those flowing down toward the Sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea, were completely cut off. And the people passed over opposite Jericho. 17 Now the priests bearing the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firmly on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan , and all Israel was passing over on dry ground until all the nation finished passing over the Jordan . 5. Naaman, the Leper, was healed in the Jordan River by the Prophet Elisha. 2 Kings 5:10–14: And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, "Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean." 11 But Naaman was angry and went away, saying, "Behold, I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call upon the name of the LORD his God, and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper. 12 Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?" So he turned and went away in a rage. 13 But his servants came near and said to him, "My father, it is a great word the prophet has spoken to you; will you not do it? Has he actually said to you, 'Wash, and be clean'?" 14 So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan , according to the word of the man of God, and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean. 6. Elijah parted the waters of the Jordan with his cloak. 2 Kings 2:6–8: Then Elijah said to him, “Please stay here, for the Lord has sent me to the Jordan.” But he said, “As the Lord lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.” So the two of them went on. 7 Fifty men of the sons of the prophets also went and stood at some distance from them, as they both were standing by the Jordan . 8 Then Elijah took his cloak and rolled it up and struck the water, and the water was parted to the one side and to the other, till the two of them could go over on dry ground. 7. Elisha made the head of an ax float at the Jordan River. 2 Kings 6:1–7: Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, “See, the place where we dwell under your charge is too small for us. 2 Let us go to the Jordan and each of us get there a log, and let us make a place for us to dwell there.” And he answered, “Go.” 3 Then one of them said, “Be pleased to go with your servants.” And he answered, “I will go.” 4 So he went with them. And when they came to the Jordan , they cut down trees. 5 But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, “Alas, my master! It was borrowed.” 6 Then the man of God said, “Where did it fall?” When he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there and made the iron float. 7 And he said, “Take it up.” So he reached out his hand and took it. 8. John the Baptist baptized people in the Jordan River. Matthew 3:5–6: Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, 6 and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 9. Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. Matthew 3:13–17: Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; 17 and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” 10. The disciples of Jesus baptized many in the Jordan River. John 4:1–3: Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2 (although Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples), 3 he left Judea and departed again for Galilee. Faith Lesson from the Jordan River 1. The Jordan River represented life and vitality to the Israelites. They were desert people, and water was their life. Therefore, Christ used this concept to teach them that in the same way water was vital for their physical lives, He was vital for their spiritual lives as well. Do we realize the importance of a close relationship with Christ in order to have spiritual life and vitality? 2. The meaning of Jordan means “descend.” In a spiritual sense, are we humble before God and submissive to Him in order to grow spiritually? 3. The Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground. In so doing, God reminded them of the miracle of crossing the Red Sea after their exodus from Egypt. Often, God will repeat miracles to show His faithfulness. What things has God done repeatedly to show His faithfulness to us? 4. Naaman, the leper, had his own idea of how God should operate. Do we often have our own ideas as well as to how we think God should do things? 5. Baptism played a large role in the ministries of John the Baptist, Jesus, and his disciples. It was a baptism of repentance. What is our view of baptism today, and how important is it to us and our ministries?

Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel. In-depth Bible-centered tour trips to Israel. October 22 - November 7, 2027, 17-Day Package Trip. Affordable tours of all the biblical sites in Israel. Holy Land Tour Trip to Is rael The Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime October 22 ~ November 7, 2027 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) You can shorten the trip if needed. You can start or depart the tour at any time. Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Would you like a life-changing, unforgettable experience in the Holy Land? If so, we're delighted to invite you to join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible, where you will gain a new dimension in understanding the Bible and the life of Jesus. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, walked on the water, calmed the sea, and was crucified and raised from the dead. We will immerse ourselves in the Land of the Bible and experience it in our souls. After a trip like this, you will never be the same, and you will never read your Bible the same way. If you want a Bible-rich experience, this trip is for you. At each site, we will give biblical and historical teaching, along with a faith lesson. Therefore, this trip is designed to provide an in-depth study and perspective on the events and places of the Bible as outlined in the Scriptures. Our goal is to offer a highly biblical, non-touristy, and inspirational trip to the Land of the Bible. Our trips also include off-the-beaten-path sites. ___________________ "An absolutely amazing trip with a guy who knows his Bible and can relate it to you in-country. I've gone to Israel with this dear friend of mine twice. It's an 11 out of 10 trip!" Dan Reeves "I've looked and looked, but I just haven't found any groups with the same approach I got spoiled by when we went with you to Israel. Also, they're not really Bible-teaching tours. Your teaching tour is still head and shoulders above anything else, so if it works out, I'd like to go with you again next year." Todd Yaney Quick Links Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,950 USD Hotel Reservation Bookings & Airplane Flights About Your Tour Hosts Trip Registration, Deposits, Payments, & Cancelation Info Documents Needed to Enter Israel Itinerary Holy Land Trip Travel Orientation Helpful Holy Land Learning Resources Anchor 5 The Holy Land Experience! 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) Total Holy Land Trip Cost: $5,950 USD COST BREAKDOWN HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2 ,4 50 USD Items Included in HolyLandSite.com Fee: Transportation in Israel via a deluxe A/C motorcoach. All park & entrance passes. Holy Land Site tour guide and Bible teacher (Dr. Todd Fink). Wireless headsets for a better listening experience. All tips for the tour bus driver and hotel staff. Personal Expenses: $3,500 USD To keep our trips as affordable as possible and allow maximum flexibility, tour participants book their own lodging and airfare and pay for their own meals. The costs below are estimates. Your price may vary depending on airfare from your location, room selection, and your preferred dining level. Items each individual pays for on their own: Meals in Israel: $500 per person ~ You can eat at the hotels, local restaurants, or in your room. Lodging in Israel: $1,550 per person ~ Based on private, double-occupancy rooms. ~ We provide links to the three hotels we use, and you book them. ~ Hotels can be found below . Airfare: $1,400 per person Personal transportation in Israel: $50 per person Note: Personal transportation includes travel from Ben Gurion Airport to the Abba Hotel in Tel Aviv and from the Prima Park Hotel in Jerusalem to Ben Gurion Airport. Taxis are the best option. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate everyone's schedules because our tour participants have different arrival and departure times. However, we are happy to help with these arrangements in any way possible. Total Cost of Trip HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2,4 50 Personal Costs: $3,500 (Estimated Costs) Total: $5,95 0 USD THIS IS A CUSTOM-DESIGNED TRIP If you want to spend more time in Israel and see more holy sites, this trip is designed for you. Most Holy Land trips include around 7-8 full touring days in Israel. This severely limits what you can see. As a result, many who go to the Holy Land miss significant holy sites. Our trips include 13 full touring days in Israel. This allows you to see almost every significant site in Israel. A 17-day trip like ours is typically quite expensive (if you can find one). Why can we do it so inexpensively? We eliminate tour companies, travel agencies, and tour guides, and provide these services directly. You can also book your own airfare and lodging and pay for your own meals, giving you great flexibility and options. We are pleased to serve you and our Lord Jesus Christ by offering this unique, affordable trip of a lifetime. Because this is a custom trip, each participant is responsible for booking their airfare and lodging and purchasing their meals. DO WE OFFER SHORTER TOUR TRIPS? If the trip is too long, you can start or end at any time. You don't need to participate in the entire trip. MEALS IN ISRAEL (Paid by Each Individual) Eating in Israel is really quite simple. Below is what most people on our tours do: Breakfast ~ Hotels provide a large buffet-style breakfast, which you can pay for when you book your lodging or at the hotel. We highly recommend eating breakfast at the hotels as it saves a lot of time. They are large buffet meals that are already prepared, hot, and ready to eat. However, you can eat breakfast at a local restaurant or make it yourself in your hotel room if desired (all rooms have small refrigerators). Lunch ~ Because eating out is expensive in Israel, time-consuming with a large group, and we will not always be close to a restaurant while sightseeing, each trip participant will need to prepare a daily sack lunch. You can buy lunch items at local grocery stores, or take extra items and leftovers from the hotel breakfast buffets. All hotels have in-room refrigerators. Dinner ~ Many enjoy the local culture by eating out at local restaurants. However, if you prefer to eat at the hotels, they offer large buffet-style dinners. You can also buy food at local stores and eat in your hotel room if desired (all rooms have small refrigerators). PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Those considering this trip should be in reasonably good physical shape. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). Each day includes about 8 hours of sightseeing. If you'd like, you can take a day off or stay on the tour bus to rest at any time during the trip. GROUP SIZE LIMIT To provide a more intimate, enhanced experience, we limit our group size to about 40 people. This allows us to be more efficient and see more places in Israel. Larger teams bring a different dynamic that slows things down and makes travel more difficult. AIR TRAVEL Each person will be responsible for booking their own air travel to Israel (Ben Gurion Airport). Please plan to arrive with plenty of time to attend our required orientation and get-acquainted meeting, scheduled for 7:00 pm at the Abba Hotel in Tel Aviv. Because of customs, luggage collection, and other factors, please allow 3 hours from your arrival at the airport to your arrival at the hotel. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Note: If you have the time and resources, arriving a day early will let you rest and better prepare for your experience in Israel. TRANSPORTATION IN ISRAEL We will travel by a large, air-conditioned motorcoach . Our bus driver is an Arab Christian who can take us to all the sites in Israel. LODGING IN ISRAEL During our time in Israel, we will stay at three nice hotels with private rooms and bathrooms. Our itinerary shows the hotels where we will stay: Tel Aviv, Tiberias, and Jerusalem. LUGGAGE SIZE AND AMOUNT We don't have a specific luggage size or number allowance per person, but we suggest keeping each piece of luggage under 40-50 lbs (18-22 kg) to make handling easier. The lighter, the better. You will be responsible for handling your luggage during the trip (though we or others in the group can help if needed), so please pack only what you can comfortably lift. PARK & ENTRANCE PASSES Holy Land Site Ministries will pay all park and entrance fees for all sites. You are responsible for paying any entrance fees for sites you want to visit during your free time. WHAT WILL OUR VISITS TO EACH SITE BE LIKE? Our visits will typically last around two hours. We'll begin with an introduction to the site, then explore and experience its key points of interest. During the tour, we will take our time and walk at a leisurely pace, stopping along the way to explore and discuss the points of interest. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). We'll then find a quiet spot to reflect on the main Bible events that took place there and conclude with a faith lesson that teaches the key truths God wants us to learn. Afterward, you will have approximately 15 minutes to purchase souvenirs and use the bathroom. TRIP PREPARATION Please use the videos and information on our website, which provide helpful guidance and orientation to help you better understand the many biblical sites we will visit, Israel's history, and other relevant information. We will also provide helpful details leading up to our trip so you can get the most out of your Holy Land experience. We also ask that you familiarize yourself with our Travel Orientation Material, which can be found on our website. You will find it extremely helpful. TIME OF YEAR FOR THIS TRIP We chose these dates to visit Israel because the weather is stable and no Jewish holidays will interfere with our travels. DAILY ITINERARY Please note that we may adjust the schedule slightly due to circumstances beyond our control. MONEY IN ISRAEL Credit cards and Dollars are readily accepted, and you can withdraw shekels from ATMs. INTERNET IN ISRAEL You can buy a phone SIM or eSIM for around $20.00 if you want Internet service in Israel: IsraelieSIM - Israel's fastest cellular network | Pelephone . You can also activate your phone for international service. If your phone service doesn't include Internet access, free Wi-Fi is available at each hotel, and the tour bus offers complimentary Internet service. DIGITAL MAPS OF DAILY TRIP ITINERARY For each day's tour itinerary , we provide a link to a Google Map of the route and sites we'll see . These maps are in the Itinerary Section. Here's an example: Tour Day 1: G oogle Map Itinerary DAILY SCHEDULE We will meet in the main lobby of each hotel at 7:15 am and depart promptly at 7:30 am to board the tour bus. We will return around 4:00 - 5:00 pm. After returning to the hotel each day, you will have free time to relax, dine at the hotel, explore local sites, dine out, and experience local culture. PERSONAL TRAVEL IN ISRAEL You can take a taxi, walk, or use the bus or light rail train system. It's helpful to have Internet service (you can activate your phone or obtain an Israeli SIM or eSIM card) and use Google or Apple Maps to navigate. It will tell you which bus, light rail train, or walking route suits you best. It also works in real time, so you can see exactly when buses and trains are arriving and departing. AGE LIMIT The minimum age for trip participants is 12, unless you have made other arrangements with us. ITINERARY Please see our detailed itinerary below. DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO ENTER ISRAEL Valid Passport Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. B2 Stay Permit You receive this permit upon arrival at the airport. Self-service kiosks let you scan your passport and print your B2 Stay Permit. Keep this permit safe, as you will need to present it multiple times during your stay in Israel. For convenience, you may want to place it inside your passport or wallet. Here is our helpful Ben Gurion Arrival Orientation Video that shows all about this: https://youtu.be/65N9VktYE0c Visas Israel does not require Visas from almost all countries. However, if you are from a country that Israel requires a visa for, you will need to check and verify this in advance. ETA-IL Electronic Document Travel rules to Israel have changed. Starting in January 2025, visitors from Visa-exempt countries (meaning you don't need a Visa to enter Israel) must obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Israel. An approved ETA-IL allows you to travel to Israel and stay up to 90 days per visit. All Visa-exempt travelers to Israel must obtain ETA-IL approval before starting their journey. ETA-IL is designed to smooth border control upon arrival in Israel and ensure Israel's national security. How long is an ETA-IL valid? An ETA-IL lets you travel to Israel as a tourist and stay up to 90 days. Your ETA-IL authorization is generally valid for multiple trips within two years of approval, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. What does the ETA-IL application cost? 25 NIS ($7.50 USD) per applicant. How to apply for an ETA-IL? You apply online through the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority website. Here's the link: ETA-IL (piba.gov.il) When to apply for ETA-IL Please apply at least one month before your departure date to allow time for any issues that may arise. You can submit your application sooner if you prefer. Helpful video from the Israeli government website about the ETA-IL document and how to obtain it: How to Use ETA-IL for Eligibility to Enter Israel Anchor 1 TOUR HOSTS Todd & Letsy Fink More about the Finks TRIP REGISTRATION, DEPOSITS, PAYMENTS, & CANCELATION INFO HOW TO REGISTER & CONFIRM YOUR SPOT 1. Please fill out the online registration form, and we will notify you of your acceptance to the tour team. 2. After being notified of your acceptance to the tour team, please pay your non-refundable registration deposit of $500 USD. Your deposit is what confirms your spot on the tour team. REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, AND FINAL PAYMENT LINKS Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,950 USD FINAL PAYMENT DEADLINE Your final payment deadline is August 1, 2027 . If you wish to attend this trip after August 1 , 2027, we will handle reservations based on space availability. Thanks for your understanding. CANCEL ATIONS & REFUNDS Deposit Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries All deposit payments are non-refundable and non-transferable to other trip dates, as HolyLandSite.com invests significant overhead in each trip, including reservations, office staff, travel arrangements, bus rental, and so forth, which cannot be recovered. Refund of Final Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries 1. If you need to cancel your trip for personal reasons before August 1, 2027 , Holy Land Site Ministries will only be able to refund one-half of your final payment. 2. If you must cancel your trip for personal reasons after August 1 , 2027 , Holy Land Site Ministries will not be able to refund any of your final payment due to expenses already incurred that cannot be recovered. Transferring Payments to a Different Tour Trip Date Unfortunately, we cannot transfer payments from one tour trip to another. Refunds from Purchases of Airline Tickets, Lodging, etc. Holy Land Site Ministries cannot refund any of these funds because they were not paid to Holy Land Site Ministries. Refund if the Trip is Canceled Due to Events Out of Our Control, like COVID, Other Viruses, War, and So Forth 1. 100% of the final payment to Holy Land Site Ministries will be refunded. 2. The deposit payment of $500 is not refundable because HolyLandSite.com has many overhead commitments invested in each trip, such as reservations, office staff, travel commitments, bus rental, and so forth, that cannot be recuperated. However, rest assured that we are "Old School" and don't cancel trips unless we absolutely can't go. Our experience leading tours during wartime shows we don't cancel trips. 3. Refunds from flights and lodging will be the responsibility of each person, as these were booked personally. 4. Unfortunately, Holy Land Site Ministries cannot act as your trip insurance if the trip must be canceled or you choose to cancel for personal reasons. Therefore, we encourage you to follow our suggestions below to book your trip with little financial commitment. IDEAS TO BOOK YOUR TRIP WITH LITTLE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT 1. Book Your Lodging Through Booking.com They require no upfront charge and allow free cancelation up to one week or so before your trip. 2. If Possible, Book Your Airfare with Cancelation Coverage 3. Buy Trip Protection Insurance If you would like trip protection insurance to protect you in the event of trip cancelation for any reason, many third-party insurance agencies offer travel protection insurance in case of unforeseen cancelations. Travel Protection Agency Options Travel Guard: https://www.travelguard.com Allianz Travel Insurance: allianztravelinsurance.com Seven Corners: sevencorners.com World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKINGS & AIRLINE FLIGHTS Lodging If you have the time and resources, arriving a day or two early in Israel will let you rest up and better prepare for your experience. Hotels generally allow bookings about one year in advance. Please book your lodging as soon as possible within this timeframe, as accommodations in Israel fill up quickly. Flights You can book your flights at your convenience. Most people book their flights 4 to 6 months before the trip. Israel's main international airport is Ben Gurion Airport, abbreviated TLV. HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKING LINKS We strongly suggest choosing the "Free Cancelation" option when booking. This will protect you if your plans change unexpectedly. You can book using the hotel's direct links below (best price) or through the booking platform of your choice. When booking your lodging, please mention in the message section that you are part of the HolyLandSite.com Tour Group. They will offer you better rooms and other benefits. Be certain to check your dates. Some of the hotel sites can be a little confusing. The dates you want to confirm will appear directly to the right of the room selection. Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv Check-in: October 23 Check-out: October 24 , one-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link (too early to book) Emily's Hotel, HaGalil 66, Tiberias Check-in: October 24 Check-out: October 28 , four-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link (too early to book) Note: Emily's Hotel has a sister hotel (same owner) right beside it called Aviv Holiday Flat. The quality is not as nice as Emily's Hotel, but the price is much lower. Guests at Aviv Holiday Flat eat in Emily's Hotel dining room. Here is the info if you'd like to book it instead. Aviv Holiday Flat, 2 Hanotar Street, Tiberias Hotel Direct Reservation Link (too early to book) Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem Check-in: October 28 Check-out: November 6, nine-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link: Promo Code (Holyland12) gives our tour group a 12% discount. Note: Be certain the promo code (Holyland12) appears in the top-right box. If you need to update the search results, the dates will be set back by one day. This can be confusing. You will need to re-enter the correct dates. Also, the dates that appear at the top of the page in the search box will be off by one day. The correct dates that matter are just to the right of the room selection option. Sorry about this! It's an issue with the hotel's website. If one of the above hotels is full, book a nearby hotel of your choice and meet us in the main lobby at 7:15 am, where the rest of the group is staying. We will depart the hotel lobby promptly at 7:30 to board the tour bus. CONTACT INFO: Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website : HolyLandSite.com Anchor 2 Anchor 4 DAILY ITINERARY FRI, OCTOBER 22 DEPART FOR THE HOLY LAND Please plan to arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, by 3:00 pm on October 23, if possible. This will give you plenty of time to get everything done before the required orientation and get-acquainted meeting at 7:00 pm. We'll meet in the main check-in lobby of the Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv, then head to our meeting place. Note: If you have the time and resources, arriving a day early will let you rest and get better prepared for your experience in Israel. Click to see the "Ben Gurion Airport Arrival Orientation Video." SAT, OCTOBER 23 TEL AVIV After arriving at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, you will proceed through the airport. Please don’t lose the small B2 Stay Permit paper you'll receive at one of the kiosks. Afterward, you can take a taxi to Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv . Due to customs, luggage pickup, and other procedures, please allow about 3 hours of travel time from the airport to the hotel. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. The orientation and get-acquainted meeting is at 7:00 pm. Please meet in the main hotel lobby. Free time afterward. Lodging at Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv . One night total. Google Map from Ben Gurion to Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo SUN, OCTOBER 24 TEL AVIV – SEA OF GALILEE AREA Refreshed from a good night's sleep, we’ll visit Old Jaffa (Joppa), the traditional home of Simon the Tanner, the port from which Jonah sailed, and the port where the logs arrived for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. We’ll then pass through the fast-growing towns and farms of the Plain of Sharon en route to Caesarea Maritima , where the Holy Spirit came to the Gentiles and where major events in the lives of Peter and Paul took place. We’ll drive through the rolling hills of Galilee to Nazareth , where Jesus grew up, and visit the Church of the Annunciation , where the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah. We'll then drive through Cana , where Christ performed His first public miracle. Then it’s on to Tiberias by the beautiful Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Lodging at Emily's or Aviv Flat Hotel, HaGalil 66, Tiberias . Four nights total. Tour Day 1: Google Map Itinerary MON, OCTOBER 25 SEA OF GALILEE AREA This day alone is worth the trip! We're literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus. We'll start the day with a most memorable boat ride on the Sea of Galilee in a replica of an ancient wooden boat used during Jesus' time. We’ll visit the Mount of Beatitudes , home to the beautiful Sermon on the Mount, where Christ preached his longest and most famous sermon. Then we'll head to Capernaum , where Jesus established his home base and often preached in the ancient synagogue. We will continue our drive around the Sea of Galilee to Kursi , where Christ cast out a legion of demons from a demon-possessed man. We'll end this amazing day at Kinar Beach, where the Feeding of the 5,000 most likely took place. At this beach, you'll have the rare treat of swimming in the beautiful waters of the Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Tour Day 2: Google Map Itinerary TUES, OCTOBER 26 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll journey north to Caesarea Philippi , where Peter confessed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God ." We'll then visit Chorazin , one of the towns Jesus cursed because of their unbelief in Him. We’ll visit Tabgha , the place where Jesus restored Peter to fellowship and ministry. We'll wrap up the day with a visit to Magdala , Mary Magdalene's hometown, where Christ cast out seven demons. Free time afterward. Tour Day 3: Google Map Itinerary WED, OCTOBER 27 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll drive along the Jordan Valley to Beth Shean , a stunning Roman Decapolis city and the place where Saul and his son’s bodies were hanged after defeat in battle. We’ll visit either Gideon’s Spring , where Gideon selected his soldiers to battle the Midianites, or Tel Megiddo (Armageddon) , where a key end-time battle will happen. We’ll return to the Sea of Galilee and end the day on Mt. Arbel , believed to be where Christ gave the Great Commission, and take in the Sea of Galilee from its breathtaking view. Free time afterward. Tour Day 4: Google Map Itinerary THURS, OCTOBER 28 JORDAN VALLEY AREA We’ll drive south along the Jordan Valley , following the footsteps Jesus and His disciples would have walked, and arrive at Jesus' baptismal site, where John baptized Him. We'll offer an option for those who would like to be baptized. Then we'll go to Jericho , the oldest known walled city and the first place Joshua and the Israelites conquered upon entering the Promised Land. We’ll then visit Qumran , where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in 1947. Then, we'll ascend and enter Jerusalem as pilgrims have since ancient times, fulfilling the words of the prophet: I was glad when they said unto me: "Our feet shall stand within thy Gates, O Jerusalem." Free time afterward. Lodging at Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem. Nine nights total. Tour Day 5: Google Map Itinerary FRI, OCTOBER 29 DEAD SEA AREA We’ll start the day by driving to Masada , a massive fortress rock column overlooking the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on earth). We'll take the cable car up Masada to see the remnants of Herod's Palace, where the Zealots made their last stand against Rome in 73 AD. We'll drive by En Gedi , pointing out where David hid from King Saul. We’ll visit ancient Gomorrah , one of the cities God destroyed with fire and brimstone because of their wickedness. Then, what's a visit to Israel without taking a dip, or rather a float, in the Dead Sea ? Free time afterward. Tour Day 6: Google Map Itinerary SAT, OCTOBER 30 BETHLEHEM – JUDAH AREA We'll begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Herodian Fortress . From there, we'll view Bethlehem in the distance, the Shepherds' Fields, the Fields of Boaz and Ruth, and the place where David kept his sheep as a young man . Then, we'll visit Bethlehem, Manger Square, and the Church of the Nativity, where Jesus was born. We’ll continue our travels to the Valley of Elah , where David slew Goliath. Then we'll head to Beth Shemesh , where key events in Samson's life took place and where the Philistines miraculously returned the Ark of the Covenant to the Israelites. Free time afterward. Tour Day 7: Google Map Itinerary SUN, OCTOBER 31 SAMARIA AREA Today, we’ll travel north to the ancient Samaria region of the Bible. We'll visit Shechem , where Abraham first entered the Promised Land and erected an altar. We’ll see and drink from Jacob’s Well , where Jesus talked with the Samaritan woman. We’ll see Joseph's tomb, where Joseph’s bones were buried . We’ll see ancient Shiloh , where the Tabernacle resided for 369 years, and Hannah prayed for a son (Samuel). Then we'll head to ancient Bethel , where Jacob saw a ladder to heaven, the tabernacle once stood, and Jeroboam erected a golden calf. We'll drive by ancient Ai , the second city Joshua and the Israelites destroyed. Free time afterward. Tour Day 8: Google Map Itinerary MON, NOVEMBER 1 NEGEV & ISRAEL MUSEUM Today, we’ll travel to Hebron , where Abraham had many encounters with God, and from where King David reigned over Judah for 7 1/2 years. We'll begin at the Oaks of Mamre, where God made a covenant with Abraham, one of the Bible's most important covenants. We'll then travel a short distance to the Cave of Machpelah , where the patriarchs and their wives are buried. Close to Machpelah are the ruins of ancient Tel Hebron . We'll then return to Jerusalem and visit the Israel Museum , which features an amazing model of Jerusalem from 66 AD. We'll also see the Shrine of the Book and the museum's archaeological wing . Free time afterward. Tour Day 9: Google Map Itinerary TUES, NOVEMBER 2 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day at the highest point on the Mount of Olives , where we'll v isit the Chapel of Ascension , the place Christ ascended back to heaven, and where His feet will touch down at His glorious second coming. We'll then visit Pater Noster Church , where Christ taught His disciples how to pray. As we descend the Mount of Olives , we’ll stop at a lookout spot offering a magnificent view of Old City Jerusalem , helping us orient ourselves to the city's layout and key places . We'll see the Tombs of the Prophets , where Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are believed to be buried. We’ll then walk the Triumphal Entry Path to Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations . Along the way, we’ll visit Dominus Flevit Church , where Christ wept over Jerusalem. We’ll then see Mary’s Tomb and then finish the day visiting Gethsemane Cave , where Jesus spent His last hours before going to the cross to be crucified. Free time afterward. Tour Day 10: Google Map Itinerary WED, NOVEMBER 3 JERUSALEM Today, we’ll visit and walk on the Temple Mount , home to Solomon’s Temple and the world's holiest and most contested piece of land. We'll then see the Western Wall , the Jews’ most sacred site in Israel. We’ll visit the Jerusalem Archaeological Park , which has numerous amazing attractions, including the Southern Stairs Area , the main entrance to the Temple Mount—a place where Christ and His disciples would have often been—and the likely location where those who received Christ at Pentecost were baptized. We’ll then walk through part of the Cardo , an original Roman street, and see the amazing remains of the massive Broad Wall built by King Hezekiah. We'll end the day with a walk on the Rooftop Walk over Old City Jerusalem. Free time afterward. Tour Day 11 : Google Map Itinerary THURS, NOVEMBER 4 JERUSALEM Today, we'll be privileged to visit the City of David , where it all began. While in the City of David, we'll see David's Palace , ancient ruins, the remains of Nehemiah's Wall, and King David's Tomb. If you'd like, you can walk through Hezekiah's Water Tunnel , which diverts water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam. Others can walk the Canaanite Dry Tunnel . We'll then all meet and see the Pool of Siloam , where Christ healed a blind man, and walk part of the Pilgrimage Road . We’ll then walk part of the Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat), where God’s winepress of wrath will be poured out on the gathered nations at Christ's second coming and from where the blood (the height of a horse’s bridle) will flow to the Dead Sea and beyond. We'll then visit the Upper Room , where the Last Supper took place and where an early Christian church/synagogue was built shortly after Christ. Next, we'll see the House of Caiaphas , where Christ was tried before Caiaphas, Peter denied Christ three times, and where Christ was beaten and spent the night in a dungeon . While at the House of Caiaphas, we'll see a Model of Jerusalem dating to around 600 AD. Tour Day 12: Google Map Itinerary FRI, NOVEMBER 5 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day by walking along the Eastern Wall and seeing the famous Eastern Gate , where we'll see ancient stones dating back to Solomon's time and evidence of the original Temple Mount and its expansions over the years. Then we'll see the Pools of Bethesda , where Jesus healed a sick man after he had waited 38 long years. We’ll walk the traditional path of the Via Dolorosa and see the 14 Stations of the Cross that lead to Golgotha, where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located today. We'll then visit and explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see why it's the best candidate for Golgotha. From there, we'll walk the biblical Via Dolorosa to Pilate’s Palace and Gabbatha (the stone-paved judgment place where Christ was condemned to crucifixion). Tour Day 13: Google Map Itinerary Farew ell Dinner at 6:00 pm. Free time afterward. SAT, NOVEMBER 6 ISRAEL - HOME Unless you plan to continue your stay in Israel, you’ll transfer to the airport and arrive home with wonderful memories of your visit to the Land of the Bible! You will be responsible for your own transportation from the hotel to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. The hotel in Jerusalem (Prima Park) offers several direct transportation options to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. You can prearrange all of them in advance. The hotel check-out time is 11:00 am. However, they will hold your luggage securely if your flight is later in the day or evening. Travel time to Ben Gurion Airport is about one hour. We recommend arriving at Ben Gurion Airport at least 3 hours before flight departure. This means you should leave the hotel in Jerusalem at least 4 hours in advance. The following are your transportation options: 1. Taxi: C osts around $140 USD for up to 4 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). 2. Shuttle Taxi: Costs around $160 USD for up to 6 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). Please arrange transportation with the hotel's front desk at least a day in advance. All transportation options take approximately an hour to reach the airport and operate daily, including on Shabbat (Saturday). Google Map from Prima Park Hotel to Ben Gurion Airport C li ck t o see the "Ben Gurion Airport Departure Orientation Video." SUN, NOVEMBER 7 ARRIVE HOME Return home with an overflowing heart, knowing you walked in the footsteps of Christ and experienced the places where many events in the Bible took place. Anchor 3

Solomon's Temple was located at the same place where Abraham was to sacrifice his son, Isaac, to God. King David then purchased the original place when it was a threshing floor. He purchased it to build an altar to the Lord. Solomon then built the Temple in this exact location. Construction on Solomon’s temple began in 960 BC. It took 7 years to build the first temple. When the Temple was dedicated, the Ark of the Covenant was put in it. The temple was to be a House of Prayer for all nations. Temple Mount: Solomon's Temple Temple Mount: Solomon’s Temple Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of the temple mount where the original temple Solomon built was dedicated. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at this key event from Scripture that took place here. The location of the temple was the same place where Abraham was to sacrifice his son, Isaac, to God. Gen. 22:1: “After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I." He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt-offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." King David then purchased the original Temple Mount when it was a threshing floor. He purchased it to build an altar to the Lord. 1 Chron. 21:18: “Now the angel of the LORD had commanded Gad to say to David that David should go up and raise an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.” King Solomon then built the Temple in this exact location. 2 Chron. 3:1: “Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to David his father, at the place that David had appointed, on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite." Construction on Solomon’s temple began in 960 BC. 1 Kings 6:1: “In the four hundred and eightieth year after the people of Israel came out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, which is the second month, he began to build the house of the LORD.” It took 7 years to build the first temple. 1 Kings 6:37-38:, “In the fourth year the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid, in the month of Ziv. And in the eleventh year, in the month of Bul, which is the eighth month, the house was finished in all its parts, and according to all its specifications. He was seven years in building it.” When the Temple was dedicated, and the Ark of the Covenant put in it, God filled it with such brilliant glory that the priests had to suspend their dedication activities until it subsided. 1 Kings 8:1-10: “Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes, the leaders of the fathers' houses of the people of Israel, before King Solomon in Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which is Zion. And all the men of Israel assembled to King Solomon at the feast in the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month. And all the elders of Israel came, and the priests took up the ark. And they brought up the ark of the LORD, the tent of meeting, and all the holy vessels that were in the tent; the priests and the Levites brought them up. And King Solomon and all the congregation of Israel, who had assembled before him, were with him before the ark, sacrificing so many sheep and oxen that they could not be counted or numbered. Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD to its place in the inner sanctuary of the house, in the Most Holy Place, underneath the wings of the cherubim. And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, a cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD. During the dedication of the temple, Solomon prays a prayer of dedication. 1 Kings 8:22-24: “Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spread out his hands toward heaven, and said, "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you, in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and showing steadfast love to your servants who walk before you with all their heart, who have kept with your servant David my father what you declared to him. You spoke with your mouth, and with your hand have fulfilled it this day. The temple was to be a House of Prayer for all nations, not just for Israel. Mark 11:15-17: "And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. And he was teaching them and saying to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." What can we observe and learn from these events that happened at this significant place? As we can see, the temple has played a key role as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. It will play a key part during the Millennial Reign of Christ on the earth as well. God has chosen to focus His presence and attention here like a laser beam from heaven like no other place. Faith Lesson In the Old Testament, the temple was the center place where God dwelt, in the New Testament we are now the temple of God as He dwells in our hearts by faith. 1 Cor. 3:16, 17, says, “Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple.” What kind of temple am I?

Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes, Church of the Primacy of Peter. Place Jesus Restored Peter and met with the disciples after His resurrection. Sites of interest include: Church of the Multiplication, Church of the Primacy of St. Peter, beach close-by to the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter, Heart-shaped stones by the beach, Rock Monument with carved Cross and verse above Tabgha, Mount of Beatitudes Tabgha: Church of the Primacy of St. Peter Photo Gallery Places of Interest Church of the Primacy of St. Peter Restoration of Peter Introduction 1. Welcome to the place where the risen Jesus met with seven of His disciples and prepared them a breakfast of fish and bread after they had fished all night. 2. It was here that Jesus restored Peter to fellowship with Him and entrusted him to feed His sheep. 3. We'll see the very place, according to tradition, where Jesus and His seven disciples met. 4. By the seashore, we'll reflect on the miraculous catch of fish Christ did at the original calling of the disciples, and when He met some of them after His resurrection. We'll also reflect on and learn valuable lessons from Peter's restoration. Location 1. Tabgha is located on the northwest side of the Sea of Galilee. 2. There are seven springs found in this area, which provide one of the best places for fishing around the sea. 3. Some of the springs provided warm sulfuric water that caused the fish to gather here. It was also used for health purposes, and many came from far away to find healing and relief in its waters. 4. Waters from these springs were also taken to nearby fields and villages via canals. Historical Background 1. The first church was built here around 350 AD by the Byzantines. 2. At the base of the current church, opposite the main altar, the foundations of the first church are visible. 3. Around 808 AD, the church was referred to as the Place of the Coals. This name refers to the incident in which Jesus prepared a meal for the apostles, building a charcoal fire on which to cook the fish. 4. Also first mentioned in the year 808 AD are the "Twelve Thrones", a series of heart-shaped stones, which were placed along the shore to commemorate the Twelve Apostles. 5. The church survived longer than any other in the area, finally being destroyed in 1263 AD. 6. The church today was built in 1933 and incorporated parts of an earlier 4th-century church. Places of Interest 1. Church of the Primacy of St. Peter. 2. Floor Mosaics As visitors step inside the church, they are greeted by a stunning mosaic display adorning the floor. These intricate designs showcase the region's diverse flora and fauna in vibrant colors, creating an atmosphere of reverence and beauty. The most famous mosaic, located near the altar, depicts a basket of loaves flanked by two fish, serving as a powerful symbol of the miracle the church commemorates. 3. Mensa Christi (Table of Christ) The church features a limestone rock formation in front of the present altar, which is venerated as a "Mensa Christi," meaning "table of Christ" in Latin. According to tradition, this is the spot where Jesus is said to have laid out a breakfast of bread and fish for the Apostles. 4. Statue of Jesus and Peter Inscription: "Feed My sheep." 5. Beach close to the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter. 6. Stones by the Beach Just outside the church, six heart-shaped stones are placed along the shore. Because these stones serve no structural purpose in their current location on the beach, archaeologists and historians believe they were salvaged from the ruins of older buildings (such as abandoned synagogues) and deliberately placed on the shoreline by early Christians sometime between the 5th and 9th centuries AD. Even though there are only 6 stones, they are traditionally known as the "Twelve Thrones" and were placed there to commemorate the Twelve Apostles. 7. Outside the church, by the beach, there are some stairs cut into this rock by the church. It’s believed that someone carved these steps in the second or third centuries, which is why in the year 381 AD, Egeria visited this area and reported that, “next to the Church of the Loaves and Fishes, which is nearby, there are some stone steps where the Lord stood." 8. Ancient Boat Docks The beach is flanked by two ancient piers constructed from black basalt boulders. That proves this was a fishing spot during the time of Jesus, and that fishermen would embark and disembark from their boats on these piers. Restoration of Peter 1. The disciples had returned to their home towns on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee after the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ in Jerusalem. 2. They undoubtedly felt very depressed, lonely, and as if their whole world had come to an end. 3. Their beloved Master had been crucified, and they were left wondering what would happen now. 4. They probably called into question how they had spent their past 3 ½ years following Christ. 5. Peter especially felt depressed and spiritually sick. He had denied Christ his Lord and Master three times after he had just moments earlier said he would follow Him even to death. Restoration of Peter in the Bible 1. After Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, the disciples went back to fishing like old times. John 21:1–3: Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberius. It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee [James and John], and two other disciples were together [7 disciples in all]. 3 "I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 2. Jesus appears to the disciples. John 21:4–14: Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. 5 He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?" "No," they answered. 6 He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. 7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread [in John 18:18 Peter denied Christ by a charcoal fire]. 10 Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught." 11 Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153 [according to Hebrew alphabetics, this number meant “I Am God”], but even with so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish [same food as the feeding of the 5,000]. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead. 3. Jesus restores Peter. John 21:15–17: When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." 16 Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep." 17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.” 4. This encounter was like the first time Christ called Peter to be His disciple. Luke 5:1–11: On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch." 5 And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word, I will let down the nets." 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish , and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him. Faith Lesson 1. Peter’s original calling to be a disciple and his restoration follow the same miracle pattern. Christ did this on purpose because He wanted Peter to remember his roots and beginning. What about us? Do we need to be reminded of our roots and calling today? 2. Christ was the one who reached out to Peter and took the initiative to restore him. What about us? Do we realize that it is Jesus who constantly pursues us and draws us back to Him? 3. Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him 3 times because Peter denied Him 3 times. What about us? Have we drifted away from Jesus and need to be reminded of some important event in our lives? 4. God realizes we are human and make mistakes. 5. The main thing God looks for in restoration is a spirit of repentance and a contrite, humble heart. What about us? Do we need restoration today, and are we willing to have a contrite and humble heart in doing so? 6. Do I understand that God is more interested in my restoration with Him than I probably am?

What does the future hold for Israel? Will it survive? What does the Bible say about Israel's future wars, conflicts, and terrorism? The Bible has much to say and is the most trustworthy source about the future. It predicts coming conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, Syria, and other nations. This is must-see information if you want to know what the future holds for Israel and Jerusalem. Future of Israel: Its Wars, Conflicts, Prophecies The Future of Israel and Its Conflicts Introduction Will Israel survive all the wars, conflicts, and terrorism from the surrounding nations who want to eliminate it? What are the motives of the wars and conflicts? Does Israel have a right to exist? What does the future look like for the Middle East and Israel? These are questions we’ll be answering. In this discussion, we will look at what the future holds for Israel by using prophecies in the Bible. The Bible is the most trusted source for the future and end times as it contains countless prophecies that have already come to pass in detailed ways, prophecies about the future, and many prophecies being fulfilled before our very eyes. The Dead Sea Scrolls prove that many of the prophecies in the Bible were written long before they were fulfilled. Therefore, we can trust the Bible like no other writing. Only God knows the future, and God claims to be the One who is the Author of the Bible. We’ll be looking at the root cause of the conflict Israel has with its enemies, what wars are prophesied to take place in the future, and what the Bible says the outcome of these wars will be. So, if you want to know what the future holds for Israel and the Middle East, read carefully to the end to find out. The Conflict Is Mainly Between Muslim Arabs and Jews Now, this discussion is not about all Arabs and is not intended to be anti-Arab. I have a number of Arab friends and have met many Arab people while in the Holy Land who are wonderful folks. God loves all people and wants them to come to the saving knowledge of salvation through Jesus Christ, who proved to be divine and fulfilled countless prophecies proving this. Both the Jews and Arabs need Jesus Christ, along with all of us. He is the only hope for peace and salvation. Every person is equal and created in the image of God. I also want to say that I feel deep compassion for the innocent people caught up in war. Wars are ugly, destructive, and sad. What Is the Conflict About? The basic conflict is over who has the right to exist in the Holy Land. The Muslim Arabs claim they are the rightful owners of all the Holy Land and want no state of Israel at all, and Israel says they have a right to exist in their homeland. Israel Becoming a Nation Fulfills Bibl e Prophecy In Ezekiel chapter 37 is a vision Ezekiel received about a valley of dry bones. These bones represent the nation of Israel and how God would regather them into their homeland in the last days. This was fulfilled in 1948 when Israel was recognized by the UN and the International Community as being its own country. Ezekiel 37:11-14: Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the entire house of Israel; behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope has perished. We are completely cut off.’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Behold, I am going to open your graves and cause you to come up out of your graves, My people; and I will bring you into the land of Israel. 13 Then you will know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves and caused you to come up out of your graves, My people. 14 And I will put My Spirit within you and you will come to life, and I will place you on your own land . Then you will know that I, the Lord, have spoken and done it,” declares the Lord.’” This amazing prophecy has been fulfilled and lets us know that the Bible is God’s word and true, as only God knows the future. We must realize that the creation of Israel as a state is God’s doing. It fulfills His master plan for the nation of Israel. God is the Lord and owner of everything, so we must realize it is His will for the nation of Israel to exist. Nothing will change His plans. Therefore, the fact that Israel is a state is ultimately by God’s sovereign work and plan, not people’s. The Future Wars Israel Will Face , as Prophesied in the Bible There are three main wars that Israel will face in the future. 1. The great battle of Gog and Magog in Ezekiel chapters 38-39. 2. The persecution of the Jews in Israel by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. 3. The gathering of all nations against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. All of these conflicts will likely be intermixed with smaller wars as hatred and the desire to wipe Israel off the face of the earth grows. Now, let’s look at each of the se major wars. 1. War I: A massive invasio n from six nations surrounding Israel and the North. Ezekiel 38:1-6: Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 2 “Son of man, set your face toward Gog of the land of Magog , the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal , and prophesy against him, 3 and say, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Behold, I am against you, Gog, chief prince of Meshech and Tubal . 4 So I will turn you around and put hooks into your jaws, and I will bring you out, and all your army, horses and horsemen, all of them magnificently dressed, a great contingent with shield and buckler, all of them wielding swords; 5 Persia, Cush , and Put with them, all of them with buckler and helmet; 6 Gomer with all its troops; Beth-togarmah from the remote parts of the north with all its troops—many peoples with you. Who are these countries that will invade Israel in the last days? Gog is a person who rules over the land of Magog. Many Bible scholars believe Magog is the southern part of Russia, and Gog means the “Prince of Rosh.” They believe Rosh refers to the land of Russia. 1. The first nation consisting of Magog, Meshech, and Tubal were all sons of Japheth, who was one of the three sons of Noah. Japheth and his family migrated to the area of modern-day Russia (Genesis 10:2-3). God informs Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38:15, “You will come from your place in the far North .” The Hebrew word means “the uttermost part of the North.” What is to the far north of Israel? This seems to be Russia. On the date of this filming, Hamas, Palestinian, and Iranian representatives are meeting in Russia. This shows that this alliance even being formed today before our very eyes. 2. The second nation, Persia, is now the modern state of Iran. It is currently ruled by an Islamic fundamentalist government that is building significant military power, including the development of nuclear weapons. It has openly declared its commitment to the total annihilation of the Jewish State of Israel. 3. The third nation, Cush, is the region of Ethiopia, but not the same as modern Ethiopia. Instead, it occupied the area later known as Nubia. Today, it’s known as Sudan and is dominated by an Islamic fundamentalist government that is using brutal means, including the crucifixion of Christians, to attempt to establish a pure, Islamic state. 4. The fourth nation, Put, is the region of Libya today. It is also an Islamic nation. It is strongly anti-West and anti-Israel, and Western intelligence has been informed that Libya has hired Eastern European and former Soviet military scientists to aid its development of military power. 5. The people of the fifth nation, Gomer, had settled in what is now central Turkey in Ezekiel’s time. 6. The people of the sixth nation, Togarmah, were identified by Josephus as the Phrygians, who settled in Cappadocia, now eastern Turkey. Considering the location of the fifth and sixth nations in Turkey, it should be noted that the present government of Turkey is being threatened by Islamic fundamentalists. As a result, some leaders fear that Turkey could become another Iran. If that happens, all the nations named in Ezekiel 38:5–6 will be characterized by a militant Islamic hatred of Israel. In fact, the current Turkish president is supporting Hamas and condemning Israel in the war that is happening between Israel and Hamas. It is even threatening to go to war with Israel and the West. The president of Turkey is also currently meeting with Russian president Putin and calls him his friend. So, we see movement happening toward Bible prophecy being fulfilled before our very eyes regarding Turkey. I should also mention that nine Arab nations are condemning Israel for defending itself against the recent Hamas attacks. In summary, what we see is Islamic countries all unifying in their opposition to Israel. The battle is a spiritual battle with the religion of Islam front and center. It’s Islamic Jihad being fanned into flames across all Islamic countries. When will this invasion happen? Ezekiel 38:7-9: “Be ready, and be prepared, you and all your contingents that are assembled around you, and be a guard for them. 8 After many days you will be summoned; in the latter years you will come into the land that is restored from the sword, whose inhabitants have been gathered from many nations to the mountains of Israel which had been a continual place of ruins [this speaks of the regathering and establishment of the nation of Israel]; but its people were brought out from the nations, and they are living securely, all of them. 9 And you will go up, you will come like a storm; you will be like a cloud covering the land, you and all your troops, and many peoples with you.” This major invasion happens after Israel is gathered into its homeland country of the Holy Land. It happens in the latter years or last days. It will also take place when Israel is living securely. Ezekiel 38:14-16: “Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “On that day when My people Israel are living securely , will you not know it? 15 You will come from your place out of the remote parts of the north, you and many peoples with you, all of them riding horses, a large assembly and a mighty army; 16 and you will come up against My people Israel like a cloud to cover the land. It shall come about in the last days that I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me when I show Myself holy through you before their eyes, Gog.” It appears it will take place at least seven years before the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. Ezekiel 39:9: “Then those who inhabit the cities of Israel will go out and make fires with the weapons and burn them, both bucklers and shields, bows and arrows, war clubs and spears, and for seven years they will make fires of them. We know that in the middle of the Tribulation, the Antichrist sets himself up as God in a functioning temple in Jerusalem. He institutes the Mark of the Beast, and no one can buy or sell without it. According to Matthew 24:15-21 and Revelation 12:6, there will be great tribulation starting in the middle of the Tribulation, and Israel will flee into the desert to be supernaturally protected by God for 3 ½ years. We’ll see this event in more detail a little later. With this being the case, it seems highly unlikely that the nation of Israel is going to have time to take wood from the great invasion with them into the desert when they flee. Therefore, it seems this invasion takes place before the middle of the Tribulation Period. Some think this northern invasion will happen at the end of the Great Tribulation Period, but I don’t think so. This northern invasion lists just six nations fighting against Israel. At the end of the Tribulation, all the nations of the earth are gathered against Israel. Ezekiel 38:14 clearly states that it happens when Israel is living securely during a time of peace. “Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “On that day when My people Israel are living securely, will you not know it? The end of the Tribulation Period is anything but peaceful and secure for Israel. The second half of the Tribulation is when God pours out His wrath on the world, so it won’t be a time of peace. Also, during the second half of the Tribulation, as mentioned, Israel flees to the desert and is supernaturally protected by God. So, it’s virtually impossible for this invasion to happen in the middle or at the end of the Tribulation Period. The reason for the invasion. Ezekiel 38:10-13: ‘This is what the Lord God says: “It will come about on that day, that thoughts will come into your mind and you will devise an evil plan , 11 and you will say, ‘I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will go against those who are at rest, who live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates, 12 to capture spoils and to seize plunder, to turn your hand against the ruins that are now inhabited, and against the people who are gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who live at the center of the world.’ 13 Sheba and Dedan and the merchants of Tarshish with all its villages will say to you, ‘Have you come to capture spoils? Have you assembled your contingent to seize plunder, to carry away silver and gold, to take away livestock and goods, to capture great spoils ?’”’ God’s response to the invasion. Ezekiel 38:17-23: ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Are you the one of whom I spoke in former days through My servants the prophets of Israel, who prophesied in those days for many years that I would bring you against them? 18 It will come about on that day, when Gog comes against the land of Israel,” declares the Lord God, “that My fury will mount up in My anger . 19 In My zeal and in My blazing wrath I declare that on that day there will certainly be a great earthquake in the land of Israel. 20 The fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the animals of the field, all the crawling things that crawl on the earth, and all mankind who are on the face of the earth will shake at My presence; and the mountains will be thrown down, the steep pathways will collapse, and every wall will fall to the ground. 21 And I will call for a sword against him on all My mountains,” declares the Lord God. “Every man’s sword will be against his brother. 22 With plague and with blood I will enter into judgment with him; and I will rain on him and on his troops, and on the many peoples who are with him, a torrential rain, hailstones, fire, and brimstone. 23 So I will prove Myself great, show Myself holy, and make Myself known in the sight of many nations; and they will know that I am the Lord.”’ How long will Israel make fires out of the weapons of warfare? Ezekiel 39:9-10: “Then those who inhabit the cities of Israel will go out and make fires with the weapons and burn them, both bucklers and shields, bows and arrows, war clubs and spears, and for seven years they will make fires of them . 10 They will not take wood from the field or gather firewood from the forests, because they will make fires with the weapons; and they will take the spoils of those who plundered them and seize the plunder of those who plundered them,” declares the Lord God. Again, as mentioned earlier, it seems highly unlikely that the nation of Israel will have time to take wood from this great invasion with them into the desert when they flee from the Antichrist in the middle of the Tribulation Period. Therefore, it seems this invasion takes place at least seven years before the middle of the Tribulation Period. The final purpose of the invasion. Ezekiel 39:21-24: “And I will place My glory among the nations ; and all the nations will see My judgment which I have executed, and My hand which I have laid on them. 22 And the house of Israel will know that I am the Lord their God , from that day onward. 23 The nations will know that the house of Israel went into exile for their wrongdoing , because they were disloyal to Me, and I hid My face from them; so I handed them over to their adversaries, and all of them fell by the sword. 24 In accordance with their uncleanness and their offenses I dealt with them, and I hid My face from them.”’” This massive invasion seems like it could set up events for the Peace Treaty that the Antichrist makes with the world for seven years, which starts the Great Tribulation Period. War II: Persecution of the Jews by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation. The next war against the Israelis will be in the middle of the Tribulation. Matthew 24:15-21: “Therefore when you see the abomination of desolation which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place—let the reader understand— 16 then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains . 17 Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get things out of his house. 18 And whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. 19 But woe to those women who are pregnant, and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 Moreover, pray that when you flee, it will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. 21 For then there will be a great tribulation , such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will again. A parallel passage to the event is found in Revelation 12:1-17: A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman [Israel] clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars [12 tribes of Israel]; 2 and she was pregnant [with Jesus Christ] and she cried out, being in labor and in pain to give birth. 3 Then another sign appeared in heaven: and behold, a great red dragon [Antichrist] having seven heads and ten horns, and on his heads were seven crowns. 4 And his tail swept away a third of the stars [fallen angels, demons] of heaven and hurled them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to give birth, so that when she gave birth he might devour her Child [Jesus]. The Red Dragon, who is Satan, wants to eliminate Israel 5 And she gave birth to a Son [Jesus], a male, who is going to rule all the nations with a rod of iron; and her Child [Jesus] was caught up to God and to His throne. 6 Then the woman [Israel] fled into the wilderness where she had a place prepared by God, so that there she would be nourished for 1,260 days [3 ½ years]. 7 And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. The dragon and his angels waged war, 8 and they did not prevail, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. 13 And when the dragon saw that he was thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman [Israel] who gave birth to the male Child [Jesus]. 14 But the two wings of the great eagle were given to the woman, so that she could fly into the wilderness to her place, where she was nourished for a time, times, and half a time, away from the presence of the serpent [3 ½ years]. 17 So the dragon was enraged with the woman, and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus [Christians] . In summary, we see that once again, God will step in and supernaturally protect Israel during this war. He has a plan for Israel, and He will see to it that it is fulfilled. It should be noted that this war, unlike the others, is between the Antichrist and Israel. It doesn’t include other nations. 3. War III: All the nations gather against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. At the end of the Great Tribulation Period, God, Satan, the angels, and demons gather all the nations to Israel to wipe her off the face of the earth. Joel 3:2: I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat [Kidron Valley between the Mt. of Olives and Old City Jerusalem]. And I will enter into judgment with them there, on behalf of my people and my heritage Israel, because they have scattered them among the nations and have divided up my land. Revelation 16:13-16: And I saw coming out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs; 14 for they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the entire world, to gather them together for the war of the great day of God, the Almighty . 15 (“Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and people will not see his shame.”) 16 And they gathered them together to the place which in Hebrew is called Har-Magedon [Jezreel Valley where Megiddo is located]. Part of this last battle will also take place in northern Israel. Revelation 14:14-20: Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud was one like a son of man, with a golden crown on His head and a sharp sickle in His hand. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, calling out with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle and reap, for the hour to reap has come, because the harvest of the earth is ripe.” 16 Then He who sat on the cloud swung His sickle over the earth, and the earth was reaped. And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, and he also had a sharp sickle. 18 Then another angel, the one who has power over fire, came out from the altar; and he called with a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, “Put in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, because her grapes are ripe.” 19 So the angel swung his sickle to the earth and gathered the clusters from the vine of the earth, and threw them into the great wine press of the wrath of God. 20 And the wine press was trampled outside the city, and blood came out from the wine press, up to the horses’ bridles, for a distance of 1,600 stadia [180 miles, 290km.). Matthew 25:31-33: “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. 32 And all the nations will be gathered before Him ; and He will separate them from one another, just as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; 33 and He will put the sheep on His right, but the goats on the left. Matthew 25:45-46: Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it for one of the least of these, you did not do it for Me, either.’ 46 These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life .” This last battle will be the battle of all battles. Christ will descend in power and great glory with the armies of heaven, which are the angels and believers in Christ in their glorified bodies. It’s His mere presence that wipes out all the nations, defeats Satan and his demonic angels, and institutes the Millennial Reign, where He will reign on earth from Jerusalem for a 1,000 years. All believers in Jesus Christ will reign with Him. After the 1,000 years, He will destroy the present heaven and earth and create brand new ones where believers in Christ will dwell with Him forever and ever. God will have fulfilled His master plan for creation, and all will be settled for eternity. Summary of the Three Coming Wars According to the Bible, which is extremely trustworthy, it predicts three major wars that will await Israel in the future. 1. The great battle of Gog and Magog. 2. The persecution of the Jews in Israel by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. 3. The gathering of all nations against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation when Christ comes back to the earth in power and great glory. Faith Lesson 1. In all these wars, the major storyline we see is that mainly Muslim nations, along with other nations, have a desire to eliminate Is rael and the Jews. However, the amazing reality is that God will supernaturally protect Israel because He still has a plan and purpose for her. 2. The main source of the conflicts moving forward will come from Islamic-run countries. Their goal is to conquer the world for Allah by whatever means necessary. This includes every kind of terror imaginable. Therefore, they will be the main players in events moving forward. 3. It’s very logical and probable that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. As we have seen, in Muslim theology, a prophesied future Muslim leader will rule from the Temple Mount over the entire world for seven years. 4. Now, while the Islamic-run countries who will be against Israel in the last days think they are fighting against Israel, they are really fighting against God almighty. This is a war no one can win. 5. There will be a growing hatred against Israel and Christians in these last days. This can even be seen today in 2023, as the UN, with overwhelming support, called for Israel to stop its military campaign to defend itself by taking out Hamas in the Gaza Strip. I wonder what each of these countries would do if they had Hamas launching endless rockets into their countries and killing thousands and kidnapping hundreds of its citizens. I’m sure they would defend themselves. 6 . God has a plan for Israel, and He will be the one who defends them supernaturally. God will fulfill this major prophecy as He has fulfilled every other one. You can count on that. Zechariah 12:1-5: The oracle of the word of the Lord concerning Israel: Thus declares the Lord, who stretched out the heavens and founded the earth and formed the spirit of man within him: 2 “Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem a cup of staggering to all the surrounding peoples . The siege of Jerusalem will also be against Judah. 3 On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who lift it will surely hurt themselves. And all the nations of the earth will gather against it . 4 On that day, declares the Lord, I will strike every horse with panic, and its rider with madness. But for the sake of the house of Judah I will keep my eyes open, when I strike every horse of the peoples with blindness. 5 Then the clans of Judah shall say to themselves, ‘The inhabitants of Jerusalem have strength through the Lord of hosts, their God.’ 7. God will fight for Israel, and it will be victorious. So, the future is actually bright for Israel. All the world sill see and know this. It will survive all the wars and conflicts because God is her helper and defender. The future will sometimes be ugly due to wars, but God will use all this for His good purposes to carry out His divine master plan for His creation. 8. God loves everyone and will extend His hand of grace and love to all who will receive it through Jesus Christ. 9. As we see these end times events unfolding before our eyes, we need to realize that God is in control and working out everything according to His good purposes. Therefore, we should be at peace, trusting in God, a nd certain we are right with God and ready for His return.

Tel Hazor was one of the largest and most important biblical sites in the Canaanite and Israelite periods. The victory over Hazor by Joshua and the Israelites is probably one of the most overlooked miracles in the Bible. When we realize how powerful Hazor was and how Jabin, the King of Hazor, gathered countless armies against the Israelites, we see that only God could have given them victory. It was on the Via Maris, north of the Sea of Galilee. Tel Hazor Photo Gallery Places of Interest Hazor Location 1. Hazor is located about 10 miles (16 km.) due north of the Sea of Galilee and just to the east of Hwy. 90. 2. It was on one of the most important travel routes called the “Via Maris,” which linked Africa and Egypt with Syria and Asia. 3. It was the largest and most strategic city in northern Galilee due to its size and location. Historical Background 1. Hazor was one of the most important cities of the Canaanites and was the head of all the northern kingdoms (Josh. 11:10). 2. It was 10 times the size of Jerusalem and totaled 200 acres (81 hectares, 200 football fields) in size. 3. The upper part of the tel is around 30 acres (12 hectares), and the lower part is around 170 acres (69 hectares). 4. What we see today of Hazor is 1/8 the size of what it once was. 5. To the north lies most of the city, which is now a farm field. 6. It’s the largest tel in Israel. 7. It’s also believed to have been the largest city in ancient Canaan. 8. It was one of three major cities of defense in Israel (Gezer, to the south, Megiddo, in the middle of the country, and Hazor, in the north). All three cities were on the Via Maris. 9. Hazor rivaled Nineveh in size and importance. 10. Hazor is mentioned 19 times in the Bible. Places of Interest 1. Israelite City Ruins 2. Israelite Walls 3. Lower City 4. Temple Tombs 5. Northern Walls 6. Canaanite Temple/Palace 7. Solomon’s Walls and Gate (archaeologists have uncovered a six-chambered gate at Hazor, which is nearly identical in size and design to gates at Megiddo and Gezer). 8. Ash layer in the Canaanite Palace/Temple 9. Canaanite Altar 10. Water System (a century after Solomon’s time, the Israelites built a massive shaft 131 ft. (40 m.) deep into the tel, reaching the water table below). 11. Israelite Fortress/Tower 12. Rooms & Buildings 13. Canaanite passage between the upper and lower cities. Hazor in the Bible The victory over Hazor by Joshua and the Israelites is probably one of the most overlooked miracles in the Bible. When we realize how powerful Hazor was and how Jabin, the King of Hazor, gathered countless armies against the Israelites, we see that it was only God who could have given them the victory. 1. When Jabin, king of Hazor, heard that Joshua and the Israelites had been on a conquering rampage throughout all the southern part of the land, he gathered a host of kings in the northern part of the land to unite and fight against the Israelites. Joshua 11:1–5: When Jabin, king of Hazor , heard of this, he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph, 2 and to the kings who were in the northern hill country, and in the Arabah south of Chinneroth, and in the lowland, and in Naphoth-dor on the west, 3 to the Canaanites in the east and the west, the Amorites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, and the Jebusites in the hill country, and the Hivites under Hermon in the land of Mizpah. 4 And they came out with all their troops, a great horde, in number like the sand that is on the seashore, with very many horses and chariots. 5 And all these kings joined their forces and came and encamped together at the waters of Merom [3.5 miles, 5.5 km. north of Hazor] to fight against Israel. 2. All the unified kings and soldiers believed that with their countless armies and gods, Israel would be no match for them. 3. God told Joshua and the Israelites not to be afraid because He would be with them and deliver all these kings into their hands. Joshua 11:6–9: And the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid of them, for tomorrow at this time I will give over all of them, slain, to Israel. You shall hamstring their horses and burn their chariots with fire.” 7 So Joshua and all his warriors came suddenly against them by the waters of Merom and fell upon them. 8 And the Lord gave them into the hand of Israel, who struck them and chased them as far as Great Sidon and Misrephoth-maim, and eastward as far as the Valley of Mizpeh. And they struck them until he left none remaining. 9 And Joshua did to them just as the Lord said to him: he hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots with fire. 4. After defeating all the armies, Joshua conquered Hazor and burned it with fire. Joshua 11:10–13: Then Joshua turned back at that time, and captured Hazor and struck its king with the sword; for Hazor formerly was the head of all these kingdoms . They struck every person who was in it with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying them; there was no one left who breathed. And he burned Hazor with fire . Joshua captured all the cities of these kings, and all their kings, and he struck them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed them; just as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded. 13 But none of the cities that stood on mounds did Israel burn, except Hazor alone; that Joshua burned . Evidence of the burn marks and ash layer can be seen in the Canaanite Palace at Hazor. 5. Hazor was later retaken and rebuilt by the Canaanites. God used the Canaanites to punish Israel for their disobedience to Him. Judges 4:1–3: And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord after Ehud died. 2 And the Lord sold them into the hand of Jabin [title, not a person’s name, i.e., pharaoh] king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor . The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth-hagoyim. 3 Then the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for help, for he had 900 chariots of iron and he oppressed the people of Israel cruelly for twenty years. 6. God used Deborah and Barak to deliver the Israelites after they repented of their sins and cried out to Him for help. Joshua 4:14–16: And Deborah said to Barak, “Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Does not the Lord go out before you?” So Barak went down from Mount Tabor with 10,000 men following him. 15 And the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army before Barak by the edge of the sword. And Sisera got down from his chariot and fled away on foot. 16 And Barak pursued the chariots and the army to Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not a man was left. 7. Hazor later came under the control of Israel during the period of King David and Solomon, and Solomon rebuilt and fortified Hazor, along with Megiddo and Gezer. 1 Kings 9:15: Now this is the account of the forced labor which King Solomon levied to build the house of the Lord, his own house, the Millo, the wall of Jerusalem, Hazor , Megiddo, and Gezer. 8. . Jeremiah prophesied against Hazor due to the Israelites disobedience after David and Solomon’s time. Jeremiah 49:33: Hazor will become a haunt of jackals, a desolation forever; no one will live there, nor will a son of man reside in it. It’s amazing that this once sought-after prime location is now desolate. It shows the power of God and His proclaimed word. 9. As a result of Israel’s disobedience to God, Hazor was destroyed by Assyria in 722 BC, and the northern 10 tribes of Israel were deported. 2 Kings 15:29: In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor , Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of Naphtali, and he carried the people captive to Assyria. Faith Lesson from Hazor 1. When the Israelites obeyed God, He blessed them and made them victorious over countless kings and multitudes of soldiers. 2. When they disobeyed God, He caused them to become weak and defeated. 3. The same lesson from the Old Testament applies to us today (Rom. 15:4). When we are obedient and faithful to God, we live victoriously and receive His blessings. However, when we disobey Him, we become weak and defeated. 4. What kind of lives are we living today? Are we victorious or defeated?

En Gedi is located on the west side of the lower Dead Sea area north of Masada. It’s a beautiful oasis fed by a large spring in a barren, dry place. See and learn about this amazing oasis of living water in the desert. David hid out here when fleeing from King Saul, and God refers to Himself as living water for our dry and thirsty souls. En Gedi: Living Water In the Desert Photo Gallery Places of Interest En Gedi Introduction Nestled between the Judean Desert and the shores of the Dead Sea, En Gedi National Park is one of Israel’s most stunning natural oases. With its lush waterfalls, desert canyons, ancient ruins, and rich biblical history — including the caves where David hid from King Saul — En Gedi offers a breathtaking blend of beauty and spiritual significance. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a deeper connection to the land of the Bible. Location 1. En Gedi is located on the west side of the lower Dead Sea area about 11 miles (17 km.) north of Masada on Hwy. 90. 2. It’s a beautiful oasis fed by a large spring in a barren, dry place. Historical Background 1. En Gedi was inhabited by the Canaanites during the time of Abraham and Lot. 2. The Dead Sea basin was once like a Garden of the Lord. Genesis 13:10–12: Lot lifted up his eyes and saw all the valley of the Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere —this was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah—like the garden of the Lord , like the land of Egypt as you go to Zoar. 11 So Lot chose for himself all the valley of the Jordan, and Lot journeyed eastward. Thus they separated from each other. 12 Abram settled in the land of Canaan, while Lot settled in the cities of the valley, and moved his tents as far as Sodom. 3. Due to the abundant water supply, the village by En Gedi Park has had a long history of habitation from ancient days to the present. 4. Today, this area is extremely dry, and En Gedi is an oasis of living water in the desert. Places of Interest 1. Park entrance 2. Hiking trail 3. Nahal David Stream 4. Lower pools 5. Upper pools 6. Upper waterfall 7. Synagogue at Tel Goren (Jorn) 8. Ancient and modern En Gedi town 9. Dead Sea En Gedi in the Bible 1. En Gedi was used in a love poem in the book of Song of Solomon. Song of Solomon 1:14: My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En Gedi . 2. In the Millennial Reign of Christ on earth, God speaks of how He will change the Dead Sea region again to be like a garden due to a supernatural river flowing from Jerusalem. Ezekiel 47:9–10: And wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish. For this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes. 10 Fishermen will stand beside the sea. From En Gedi to Eneglaim it will be a place for the spreading of nets. Its fish will be of very many kinds, like the fish of the Great Sea. 3. En Gedi was one of David’s main hideouts when Saul was pursuing his life. 1 Samuel 23:28–29: So Saul returned from pursuing after David and went against the Philistines. Therefore, that place was called the Rock of Escape. 29 And David went up from there and lived in the strongholds of En Gedi . 4 . En Gedi is a perfect example of living water in the desert. The Israelites were a desert people whose whole history was related to the desert. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, along with the Israelite’s time in Egypt, and their wandering in the desert for 40 years, all took place in a desert. Also, much of Israel is a desert as well. The Israelites fully knew that living water meant life and survival. 5. God used the desert and living water as examples of judgment upon Israel. Jeremiah 2:12–13: Be appalled, O heavens, at this; be shocked, be utterly desolate, declares the LORD, 13 for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters , and hewed out cisterns for themselves , broken cisterns that can hold no water. 6. God used desert imagery to show how those who abandon Him are like a parched desert without water. Jeremiah 17:5–8: Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD. 6 He is like a shrub in the desert , and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness , in an uninhabited salt land. 7 "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD , whose trust is the LORD. 8 He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit." 7. Christ referred to Himself as the source of living water. John 7:37–38: On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink . 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water ." Faith Lesson from En Gedi 1. Living Water in the Bible refers to spiritual life and vitality found only in being right with God. 2. Stagnant water is full of sickness and diseases and refers to the person who lives life without being right with God. 3. Have we received Christ, the source of living water? 4. Do we fellowship regularly with God in order to receive living water for our souls? 5. Do we read God’s Word, which gives living water to our spirits and nourishes our hearts? 6. Are we seeking to find life and joy in our own pursuits and neglecting our relationship with God? Be appalled, O heavens, at this; be shocked, be utterly desolate, declares the LORD, 13 for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters , and hewed out cisterns for themselves , broken cisterns that can hold no water (Jer. 2:12–13).

God, in His sovereignty, placed Tel Gezer, Israel, on the crossroads of the ancient world. They were to be a shining light for all to see God’s wonders, love, and miracles. See the importance of this location. Gezer is one of the largest tels in Israel. Whoever controlled Gezer had significant control over the ancient world. Gezer began to be inhabited some 5,000 years ago. It has around 21 layers of civilizations. Many child sacrifices were done here. Tel Gezer: On the Crossroads of the World Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gezer: On the Crossroads of the World Location 1. Gezer is in the eastern foothills of the coastal plain (Shaphelah) of western Israel. It is about 14 miles (22.5 km.) east of the Mediterranean Sea and about 19 miles (30.5 km.) west of Jerusalem. Tel Aviv sits about 17 miles (27 km.) to the northwest of Gezer. 2. Gezer was on the international north-south travel route called the Via Maris. It was also on a major east-west route that linked the coastal plain to Jerusalem and beyond. The Via Maris connected three continents, Africa, Asia, and Europe. This location is significant because Israel forms a narrow land bridge to connect these three continents. To the east is a desert and to the west is the Mediterranean Sea. This forced trade and travelers to use the Via Maris. Whatever happened in Israel was taken to the known world at that time. 3. Whoever controlled Gezer controlled the trade and influence of the ancient world in biblical times. 4. God, in His sovereignty, placed Israel on the crossroads of the known world so they could be a light to the world and communicate His message to them. 5. Gezer was in the territory of Ephraim. Historical Background 1. Gezer is one of the largest tels in Israel. 2. Whoever controlled Gezer had significant control over the ancient world. 3. Gezer began to be inhabited some 5,000 years ago. 4. It has around 21 layers of civilizations. 5. A tel is a mound of earth that develops as one civilization builds upon another. 6. The Canaanites first lived here from around 3000 BC to around 2000 BC. 7. Sadly, there has been found on this site many sacrificed babies. 8. When the Israelites arrived in 1406 BC, they failed to drive out the Philistines and occupy Gezer. 9. As a result, the Philistines lived here from around 2000 BC until King David subdued them in around 1000 BC. 10. Gezer existed during the time of Christ. 11. Gezer is mentioned 14 times in the Bible. 12. During the Hasmonean revolt (167 BC), the Jews lived close to Gezer and used it for battle purposes. 13. The Ottomans (15th and 16th centuries) lived here as well. Places of Interest 1. Parking 2. Canaanite Tower 3. Canaanite Gate 4. Water System 5. Sheikh's Tomb 6. Israelite City 7. Solomon’s Gate 8. Standing Stones 9. Lookout Point Gezer in the Bible 1. In the conquest of the Promised Land, God gave the Israelites victory over Gezer. Joshua 10:33: Then Horam king of Gezer came up to help Lachish. And Joshua struck him and his people, until he left none remaining. 2. The tribe of Ephraim was allotted Gezer, but they didn’t fully drive out its inhabitants and conquer them. Joshua 16:10: However, they did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer , so the Canaanites have lived in the midst of Ephraim to this day but have been made to do forced labor. 3. Gezer was one of the cities given to the Kohathite clans of the Levites. It was also a city of refuge. Joshua 21:20–22: As to the rest of the Kohathites belonging to the Kohathite clans of the Levites, the cities allotted to them were out of the tribe of Ephraim. 21 To them were given Shechem, the city of refuge for the manslayer, with its pasturelands in the hill country of Ephraim, Gezer with its pasturelands, 22 Kibzaim with its pasturelands, Beth-horon with its pasturelands-four cities. 4. King David, some 200 years later, conquered the Philistines who lived in Gezer. 2 Samuel 5:25: Then David did so, just as the Lord had commanded him, and struck down the Philistines from Geba as far as Gezer . 5. After King David, it appears Egypt also conquered Gezer and gave it to Solomon, who rebuilt and fortified it. 1 Kings 9:15–17: And this is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon drafted to build the house of the Lord and his own house and the Millo and the wall of Jerusalem and Hazor and Megiddo and Gezer 16 (Pharaoh king of Egypt had gone up and captured Gezer and burned it with fire, and had killed the Canaanites who lived in the city, and had given it as dowry to his daughter, Solomon's wife; 17 so Solomon rebuilt Gezer ) and Lower Beth-horon. Faith Lesson from Gezer 1. In the same way Gezer is on a hill found on the crossroads of the world, we too have been placed by God in the world to influence those around us. 2. Unlike the Ephraimites who failed to conquer Gezer and attain what God had promised them, we should subdue what God wants us to become and accomplish for Him. 3. Like the standing stones at Gezer, we should be firm in our faith and persevere under persecution and pressure. We should not allow the world to mold us, but instead, we should impact the world for Christ.

Additional sites of interest in Jerusalem: Bible Lands Museum, Burnt House, Cardo, Christ Church Jerusalem, Church of John the Baptist, Church of James, Christian Information Center, Dormition Abbey, Wohl Museum, Hurva Plaza, Israel Museum, Shrine of the Book, Model City of Jerusalem, Little Western Wall, Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Mahane Yehuda Market, Rooftop Walk, Ramparts Walk, Temple Institute, Tower of David Museum, Holocaust Museum, Zedekiah’s Cave. Other Sites of Interest In Jerusalem Photo Gallery Places of Interest Other Sites of Interest In Jerusalem Aish HaTorah Observation Point Aish HaTorah's Observation Deck overlooking the Western Wall is located on top of the Aish HaTorah World Center in the Jewish Quarter and was awarded “One of the Top Ten Panoramic Views in the World.” It has a 360-degree view of the most important sites in Jerusalem: The Western Wall Plaza, the Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, City of David, Jordanian Hills, and the Judean Desert. There is also a detailed model of the original temple built by King Solomon to help visualize the magnificence of Mount Moriah in the 10th century BC. Bible Lands Museum The Bible Lands Museum places into historical context an exciting journey of the people of the Bible and their cultures, bringing greater appreciation and understanding of the biblical stories in the context of human history from a biblical perspective. On display are the great civilizations that rose and flourished in this region: Sumer, Egypt, Babylon, Assyria, Canaan, Persia, Greece, and Rome, who were responsible for the advancements of Western civilization. Established in 1992, the Bible Lands Museum is situated in the city's cultural heart and holds a unique collection dating back to the beginning of written history. There is an audio guide in English and Hebrew. The Burnt House Museum This museum is an excavated house from the Second Temple period located six meters below the current street level of the Jewish Quarter in the Old City of Jerusalem. It was inhabited by a wealthy priestly family at the end of the Second Temple period and is believed to have been set on fire during the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. In the early Roman period, this area was the “Upper City,” located on the higher hill west of the temple. While in the museum, a visitor can view a short film about the Roman invasion and life in the Second Temple period. The Burnt House is included in the “Jewish Quarter Combined Ticket” purchase, which includes access to the tower at Hurva Synagogue and the Herodian Quarter Museum. The site is located at Tiferet-Yisrael Street, in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. Christ Church Jerusalem Christ Church Jerusalem is an Anglican church located inside the Old City of Jerusalem. It was consecrated by Bishop Samuel Gobat in 1849 and is the oldest Protestant church building in the Middle East. The Church’s Ministry Among Jewish People or (CMJ) helped finance the church’s construction and have been active in the Land of Israel since the 1820s. Their mission statement reads: “Driven by a commitment to the God of Israel and the people of Israel, our purpose at CMJ Israel is to represent the Love of Yeshua (Jesus) in word and deed with the Jewish people and Gentiles living in the Land and visiting from abroad.” The church is part of a small compound just inside the Jaffa Gate opposite King David’s citadel, and the compound includes the Heritage Centre museum, Beit Bracha guest house, (meaning House of Blessing) which is a bed and breakfast and prayer garden. The Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist This Catholic church is in the picturesque village of Ein Karem 4.5 miles (7.5 km.) southwest of Jerusalem. The church and monastery were built over the ruins of ancient layers of the Herodian, Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods. Inside the church is a cave, where according to tradition, was the birthplace of John the Baptist. The Franciscan Order of monks purchased the property in 1674 and restored the church with the aid of the Spanish royal family. In 1941–42 the area west of the church was excavated, discovering graves, rock-cut chambers, wine presses, and small chapels with mosaic tiling. The southern rock-cut chamber contained ceramics dating back to the first century BC, of which is the presumed lifetime of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and John. Church of St. James Located within a walled compound in the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City is the Church of St. James, honoring two martyred believers of that name — James the Great, one of the first apostles to follow Jesus, and James the Less, believed to be a close relative of Jesus and a key leader of the church in Jerusalem. James the Great was beheaded by Herod Agrippa I, around 44 AD (Acts 12:1–2). James the Less was martyred by temple authorities about 20 years later by being thrown from the temple platform, then stoned to death. Within the church are buried the head of James the Great and the body of James the Less, according to Armenian tradition. Church of St. John the Baptist The Greek Church of St. John the Baptist, located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City, can be easily spotted with its distinctive, silvery dome. This is the oldest church in Jerusalem, built in the mid-5th century and restored after the Persians destroyed it in 614 AD. The current building was built between the 8th and 11th centuries by Italian merchants, and in the 12th century, it was renovated by the Crusaders. The ancient church, more than seven meters below street level, is still accessible via a staircase. According to Greek Orthodox tradition, the head of John the Baptist was held in this church. The entrance is located on the Christian Quarter Rd., where it intersects with David St. Christian Information Center The Christian Information Center (C.I.C.) has been sponsored by the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land since 1973. The Center is located opposite the Tower of David, just inside the Jaffa Gate of Jerusalem’s Old City. The purpose of the C.I.C. is to provide information about Christianity and the Holy Land – such as holy places and shrines, churches in the region, and aspects of religious and cultural life. Dormition Abbey Near the top of Mount Zion, the Church of the Dormition, a 12th-century church, was built on the ruins of the earlier demolished Byzantine church that overlooks the Old City. The location is identified in Christian tradition as the place where the Virgin Mary died, or “fell asleep,” as the name suggests. Inside, the circular basilica is a mosaic of Mary and of the child Jesus, with the figures of twelve prophets below them. Around the church are six chapels decorated by beautiful mosaics depicting scenes such as Mary and the infant Jesus receiving pilgrims, Jesus’ family tree, John the Baptist on the shore of the Jordan River, and other saints. Two spiral staircases lead down to the crypt where a round pillared room with a sculpture of Mary “asleep” in the center resides. On the ceiling above her is the figure of Jesus, as if watching over her, surrounded by the great women of the Bible. Herodian Quarter/Wohl Museum of Archeology The Herodian Quarter was discovered by archeologists when the Jewish Quarter was rebuilt following the Six-Day War. Located underground, it preserves the remains of six houses from the Herodian period (the reign of King Herod) that were excavated in 1967 and is considered one of the largest underground archeological sites in the world. In the Herodian period, this part of the city was home to wealthy priestly families. Homes were built on the western hill (today’s Mount Zion) overlooking the Temple Mount, with the roof of each home at the basement level of the house above it, so that every house enjoyed a clear view of the temple. There are three distinct levels, with the lowest considered to be a mansion with a possible 6,000 square ft. (557 m.) of original floor area. None of the upper stories survived the Roman torching of the city in 70 AD. Hurva Square Plaza In the center of the Jewish Quarter, surrounded by a maze of narrow and winding streets, is the Hurva Square Plaza, an open area of outdoor seating with cafes, souvenir shops, and snack bars. On the west side of the square stands the Hurva Synagogue. During the War of Independence in 1948, the 19th-century synagogue was destroyed, then in 2010, it was reconstructed in its original Ottoman style. From the upper balcony, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. You can purchase the Jewish Quarter special ticket which includes entry to the Hurva Synagogue, the Wohl Museum of Archeology (Herodian Quarter) as well as the nearby Burnt House, and the Jerusalem Archaeological Park-Davidson Center. This combined ticket requires a reservation made through the Company for the Restoration and Development of the Jewish Quarter and can save you a bit of money if you intend to visit these 4 attractions. Israel Museum – Shrine of the Book – Model City of Jerusalem Founded in 1965, the Israel Museum was extensively enlarged, refurbished, and reopened in 2010. Within this sprawling 20-acre (8 hectares) compound, you will find the Archaeology Wing, the Shrine of the Book, the Model of Jerusalem in the Second Temple Period, the Wing for Jewish Art and Life, the Fine Arts Wing, the Youth Wing, and the Art Garden. The Archaeology Wing tells the story, chronologically, of the ancient Land of Israel, which was home to peoples of different cultures and faiths, from prehistory through the Ottoman Empire. The Shrine of the Book is a white tiled dome building that houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, which are the oldest biblical manuscripts in the world. These scrolls, along with rare early medieval biblical manuscripts, were found in Qumran in 1947. The Model of Jerusalem is a reconstruction of 1st-century Jerusalem in the Second Temple period, showing the topography and architecture of the city before its destruction by the Romans in 66 AD. The model is on a scale of 50:1 and is spread over nearly an acre (.4 hectare). The Jewish Art and Life Wing exhibits four complete synagogues brought from various locations around the world and reconstructed. Jeremiah’s Grotto Jeremiah's Grotto is a cave located just outside the north wall of Jerusalem, where tradition says Jeremiah wept bitter tears and composed the book of Lamentations. The grotto is under what is called Scull Hill near the Garden Tomb. Little Western Wall The Little Western Wall (also known as Small Kotel) is a small portion of the Western Wall of the Temple Mount located in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem near the Iron Gate. The Kotel is close to the middle point of the Western Wall of the Temple Mount, and it is the second closest place to the Holy of Holies (outside of the Temple Mount) where Jews can pray. The passage alongside the wall is a courtyard of Ribat Kurd, a hospice for Muslim pilgrims founded in 1293. Lutheran Church of the Redeemer The Church of the Redeemer was built on the ruins of the medieval St. Mary la Latine Church. The site is said to have been a hostel and hospital for western pilgrims and served as the headquarters for the Knights of St. John, where members of the order nursed patients in the complex’s hospital. In the late 1800s, the church was reconstructed and personally dedicated by Kaiser Wilhelm. The church is located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City near the famous Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The square bell tower of this Protestant church has graced the Old City's skyline since 1898. It's worth buying a ticket to access the tower for a 360-degree view over the Old City, but be prepared, it’s a winding staircase of 170 steps to the top. Mahane Yehuda Market The Mahane Yehuda Market is a true old-style market located in the middle of Jerusalem with over 250 vendors. At the market, you can find street singers, musicians, fresh spices by weight, baked goods, meat, cheeses, nuts, housewares, fresh fruits, and vegetables. In and around the market are restaurants, cafes, juice bars, and many small stands selling a variety of local foods and drinks. The market is closed for Shabbat (Sabbath) from Friday evening through Saturday evening. This market is one of the largest and busiest in Jerusalem. Old City Rooftop Walk The easiest entry point to the Chabad street rooftops is from the narrow metal steps on the right as you walk down Rehov Chabad just as it meets St. Mark’s Street. You may have to ask for directions as it’s not easy to find, but it’s worth the effort. You can then explore large amounts of the Old City and enjoy some truly unique views. One of the most fascinating of these is standing over the Old City's central point where the main north-south and east-west roads intersect. At this point, the division of the Old City of Jerusalem into its four quarters – Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian can be seen. Ramparts Walk Walk the walls of the Old City, built around 485 years ago by Suleiman the Magnificent. The Ramparts walk is a great way to get an overview of Jerusalem and the outlying areas. For a small entrance fee, you can climb the ramparts of the Old City and circle the city from above. The walk is divided into two parts: The Northern Ramparts Walk begins at Jaffa Gate and can be exited from New Gate, Herod’s Gate, or Lions’ Gate. The Southern Ramparts Walk also begins at Jaffa Gate and can be exited from Zion Gate or Dung Gate. The walk requires a lot of stair climbing and descending. Make sure you have enough water with you as once you’re on the ramparts, there’s no getting off until you reach an exit. Temple Institute The Temple Institute is an organization in Israel focused on establishing the Third Temple to be rebuilt on Mount Moriah (Temple Mount Platform) in Jerusalem. The Institute’s work touches upon the history of the temple’s past, an understanding of the present day, and the divine promise of Israel’s future. As part of its ongoing effort to prepare for a future rebuilt temple, the Temple Institute has been preparing more than ninety ritual items suitable for temple use. The Institute’s activities include education, research, and development. You can visit and tour their facilities which are located up the stairs to the southeast of the Western Wall Plaza. Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum Yad Vashem, (meaning: “a monument and a name”) Holocaust History Museum, is Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Yad Vashem is located on the western slope of Mount Herzl, also known as the Mount of Remembrance, and was established in 1953. It is dedicated to the memory of the Jews who died under Nazi oppression and Gentiles who selflessly aided the Jews.