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Videos About Bethlehem: The Place Where David Wrote Many of the Psalms In the Bible. See the area around Bethlehem where David would have grown up as a shepherd. Bethlehem means, “House of Bread.” Maybe because many wheat and barley fields were in this area. Sites of interest in the Bethlehem area include the Church of the Nativity, Shepherds' Fields, Herodian Fortress, and Rachel's Tomb. Bethlehem: David and the Psalms Bethlehem: David & the Psalms Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of Bethlehem. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at one of the key events from the Scriptures that took place here. In this area that David grew up and wrote many of the Psalms. Here are some key points to help us understand this area better. Bethlehem means, “House of Bread”. Maybe because many wheat and barley fields were in this area. We know that in the story of Ruth and Boaz that Boaz was a wealthy farmer from Bethlehem who had a large field of barley here and that Ruth gleaned these fields to provide for her and her mother in law, Naomi. King David was born and raised here in Bethlehem. It was in the hills surrounding Bethlehem that David wrote many of the Psalms we find in Scripture. Let’s take a look at Psalm 23 which is one of the most famous and well known of all the Psalms David wrote. So here we read in this God-inspired Psalm of how God is our shepherd and does the following for us: "The LORD is my shepherd I shall not want" David was a shepherd and understood shepherding very well. A shepherd was the least sought after job. It’s boring, lonely and entails long hours. During David’s long hours he learned to sing, play instruments, write Psalms, throw rocks with a sling and learned about leadership. God is our shepherd and provides all we need both physically and spiritually if we’ll follow and obey Him. "He makes me lie down in green pasture" The green pastures of Bethlehem were desert areas so green pastures were like heaven to a desert animal and shepherd. It was in these green pastures David led his sheep and realized that God leads us to as well. "He leads me beside still water" To a desert shepherd caring for his sheep, water was more important than food and was life itself. These waters in the desert were accessible, peaceful, and gave new life. God does the same for us as He leads us by still waters. He refreshes and sustains our soul. In fact, Christ referred to Himself as, “the Water of life”. Desert people certainly understood the value of water and that it was the most important thing for survival. "He restores my soul" To restore speaks of giving new life, new strength, new desire to go on, of healing, and of a new purpose for living. "He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake" The paths on the hillside of a desert lead to many areas, some good, and some bad. God leads us in the paths that lead to goodness and health and we can trust Him to lead us in the right way. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. It doesn’t matter what storms life may bring us, we can face them all because God will be with us. God’s rod and staff correct us, guide us, and comfort us. A shepherd's rod or staff was his main instrument to guide and direct. "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows" In the presence of our enemies and even evil, we still find blessing and joy in the Lord. Our cup overflows with goodness and joy and God sustains us in the midst of trials and difficulties. "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever." The goodness of God will bless us all the days of our lives. We will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. As a result, we have extreme hope and purpose in this life and in the life to come. This anchor of the soul keeps us steadfast despite what life, enemies, sin, and trials may bring us. What can we learn from this beautiful Psalm? David took advantage of his free time and developed his gifts and abilities so later on God could use these for His kingdom and purposes. David learned key truths about God that would provide the foundation for his success and leadership qualities as he meditated on the Lord and His Word. So I should ask myself if I’m taking advantage of my free time to develop my skills for God or not? Am I developing my relationship with God during the desert times in my life so I can be more a more useful tool in the hands of God later on? Do I have the kind of relationship with God that allows Him to lead and correct me as well?

The temple was to be a house of prayer for all the nations, not just Israel. Mark 11:17: Christ said, "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." The money changers were corrupting the temple by charging excessive fees for the purchase of animals to be used by those coming to the temple to offer sacrifices. Temple Mount: Jesus Cleanses the Temple Temple Mount: Jesus Cleanses the Temple Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of the temple mount. The temple mount encompasses around 35 acres and was where the temple was located during the time of Christ. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at a key event of Christ cleansing the temple area that took place here. Why did Christ cleanse the temple by driving out the moneychangers? 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." Who were the money changers? They were basically businessmen who took advantage and overcharged those traveling from afar who couldn’t bring animals to sacrifice because of the long distance, and therefore, chose to buy them at the temple instead. Let’s also look at the background and understand the purpose of God for the temple and the Nation of Israel. God’s plan for Israel was that they would be a blessing to the whole world, a people through whom God’s love and commandments could be shown to all. Gen. 12:1-3: “Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you, all the families of the earth shall be blessed." The Nation of Israel was to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Exodus 19:4-6: “You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. Now, therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel." Israel was to be a light to the nations. Isaiah 6:1-4: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Lift up your eyes all around, and see; they all gather together, they come to you; your sons shall come from afar, and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.” Christ summed up our purpose, and the purpose of Israel in Matthew 5. Matt. 5:13-16: “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” The temple was to be a house of prayer for all the nations, not just Israel. Mark 11:17: Christ said, "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? God’s plan for Israel was that they would be a blessing to the whole world, a people through whom God’s love and commandments could be shown to all. God’s purpose for Israel was to use them as a kingdom of priests to spread His truth to the world. The temple was a house of prayer for all nations, not just Israel. The money changers were corrupting the temple by charging excessive fees for the purchase of animals to be used by those coming to the temple to offer sacrifices. What about us? Am I a light to the world, showing God’s truth and commandments to all? Am I being an example of a child of God for all to see? Do I corrupt the message of God’s truth in any way by my lack of honesty in finances, by being a bad example, by not living out the truth, etc.?

Zedekiah’s Cave is a 5-acre (2 hectares) underground limestone quarry that stretches under five city blocks of the Muslim Quarter of Old City Jerusalem. The entrance is just beneath the Old City wall, between the Damascus and Herod Gates. Zedekiah's Cave ~ Solomon's Quarry Photo Gallery Places of Interest Zedekiah's Cave ~ Solomon's Quarry Location 1. The entrance to Zedekiah's Cave is just beneath the Old City wall, between the Damascus and Herod Gates. 2. It's on the north side of Old City Jerusalem, just outside its walls. 3. Only the cave's mouth is natural. The interior was carved over several thousand years. 4. Zedekiah’s Cave is a 5-acre (2 hectares) underground limestone quarry that stretches under five city blocks of the Muslim Quarter of Old City Jerusalem. 5. It was carved over a period of several thousand years and is a remnant of the largest quarry in Jerusalem. Historical Background 1. Solomon very likely used this quarry to construct the temple and temple mount platform he built. I Kings 5:15–17: Now Solomon had 70,000 transporters, and 80,000 hewers of stone in the mountains, 16 besides Solomon’s 3,300 chief deputies who were over the project and who ruled over the people who were doing the work. 17 Then the king commanded, and they quarried great stones , costly stones, to lay the foundation of the house with cut stones. These verses have intrigued scholars who have suggested that the proximity of the Temple Mount (Mount Moriah), to the site of “Zedekiah’s Cave” is what prompted King Solomon to utilize the quarry to produce the stones necessary for his building projects. 2. Herod the Great likely used the main quarry at Zedekiah's Cave for building blocks in renovating the temple and its retaining walls, today known as the Western or Wailing Wall. 3. Stones from the quarry may also have been used for Herod Agrippa I's building projects. 4. The cave was also said to be the hiding place of King Zedekiah when the Babylonians came to siege Jerusalem. The Biblical commentator Rashi wrote that Zedekiah hid here to escape the soldiers of Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar during the siege of Jerusalem. According to Rashi, "There was a cave from the palace of Zedekiah to the plain of Jericho, and he fled through the cave." Thus, the legend and name of "Zedekiah's Cave" were born. 4. Suleiman the Magnificent (1494–1566), the Ottoman sultan who built the present walls around the Old City, also apparently mined the quarry. Because of security concerns, he ultimately sealed it up around 1540. 5. In 1854, the American missionary James Turner Barclay followed rumors of a cavern near the Damascus Gate and, apparently with the help of his dog, discovered the entrance. Barclay and his two sons returned secretly at night and explored the cave. 6. In the mid-1880s, the cave was occupied by a German religious sect that the German Consul eventually evacuated in Jerusalem after many of the group fell ill from living in damp, unsanitary conditions. 7. In 1873, French archeologist Charles Clermont-Ganneau uncovered a crude carving of a winged creature in a small niche in the cave. The carving had two long, narrow wings that opened like a pair of scissors, a curled tail, and a bearded human head under a conical headdress. A plaque now marks the site. 8. Around 1900, the Jews of Jerusalem changed the name from Solomon's Quarry to Zedekiah's Cave. They believed that when Zedekiah, the last Judean king from Jerusalem, fled from the Babylonians as they besieged the city, he passed through this cave on his way to the plains of Jericho, where he was captured. 9. Some minor quarrying occurred in 1907 when the stone was obtained for use in the Ottoman clock tower over the Jaffa Gate. Otherwise, the site was not frequented again until the 1920s, when it became a tourist attraction. 10. In the late 20th century, the East Jerusalem Development Corporation restored the cave. In the mid-1980s, the Jerusalem Foundation built paths and installed lights throughout the cavern, facilitating tourist access. 11. In 1968, an East Jerusalem resident contacted the Israeli Ministry of Finance with a claim that his grandfather had buried three cases of gold in Zedekiah's Cave during the Ottoman period. He claimed he could show officials where the treasure was buried in return for 25% of the gold. The Ministry agreed, but according to The Jerusalem Post, no gold was found after digging a deep hole. 12. The cave reopened to the public in 2023 after three years of renovation and the installation of an audiovisual show. Places of Interest 1. Damascus Gate 2. Herod Gate 3. Zedekiah's Cave 4. Old City Jerusalem Walls 5. Temple Mount 6. Muslim Quarter 7. Christian Quarter 8. Jewish Quarter 9. Armenian Quarter 10. New Gate 11. Jaffa Gate 12. Western Wall 13. Temple Mount - Dome of the Rock 14. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 15. Old City Walls Zedekiah's Cave ~ Solomon's Quarry in the Bible 1. Solomon very likely used this quarry to construct the temple and temple mount platform he built - 950 BC. I Kings 5:15–17: Now Solomon had 70,000 transporters, and 80,000 hewers of stone in the mountains, 16 besides Solomon’s 3,300 chief deputies who were over the project and who ruled over the people who were doing the work. 17 Then the king commanded, and they quarried great stones , costly stones, to lay the foundation of the house with cut stones. 2. The destruction of Jerusalem and the tragic end of King Zedekiah's reign - 586 BC. King Zedekiah reigned briefly over Judah from 597 to 586 BC. His reign ended in the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem and the deportation of most of the Jews to Babylon. 2 Kings 24:17-20: Then the king of Babylon made Mattaniah, Jehoiachin’s uncle, king in his place, and changed his name to Zedekiah. 18 Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. 19 He also did evil in the sight of the Lord , according to all that Jehoiakim had done. 20 For because of the anger of the Lord this happened in Jerusalem and Judah, that He finally cast them out from His presence . Then Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. 2 Kings 25:1-7: Now it came to pass in the ninth year of his reign, in the tenth month, on the tenth day of the month, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and all his army came against Jerusalem and encamped against it; and they built a siege wall against it all around. 2 So the city was besieged until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah. 3 By the ninth day of the fourth month, the famine had become so severe in the city that there was no food for the people of the land. 4 Then the city wall was broken through, and all the men of war fled at night by way of the gate between two walls, which was by the king’s garden, even though the Chaldeans were still encamped all around against the city. And the king went by way of the plain. 5 But the army of the Chaldeans pursued the king, and they overtook him in the plains of Jericho . All his army was scattered from him. 6 So they took the king and brought him up to the king of Babylon at Riblah, and they pronounced judgment on him. 7 Then they killed the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, put out the eyes of Zedekiah, bound him with bronze fetters, and took him to Babylon. Faith Lesson 1. God sent Israel and Judah prophet after prophet over a period of around 400 years to warn them against rejecting Him. God was more than patient with them. What about us? Do we take God's word and His warnings seriously? 2. Judah, the southern part of Israel, should have seen God's seriousness when it saw the northern part of Israel deported to Assyria in 722 BC. What about us? Do we heed what God does to others and realize He could do the same to us if we continue rebelling against Him? 3. God led all of Israel into captivity because they rejected Him. 2 Kings 24:20: For because of the anger of the Lord this happened in Jerusalem and Judah, that He finally cast them out from His presence . What about us? Do we genuinely believe there will be consequences to our rejection of God and living life as we want instead of following God's will for our lives?

The Herodian (Herodium) was a fortress and palace of King Herod located about 3 miles (5 km.) south of Bethlehem. It’s on the edge of the Judean Wilderness that lies to the southeast. It was built upon a natural mountain which gave it added protection. It was massive in size and overshadowed everything in the area with its presence and majesty. Herodian (Herodium) Fortress Photo Gallery Herodian (Herodium) Fortress Introduction Welcome to the Herodian Fortress here in the Bethlehem area. Many significant events from the Bible took place here. Here are the highlights. 1. This Herodian Fortress towered above all the area around Bethlehem. It was formed by bringing dirt from the area below and shaping it into a volcano-like mountain. We're going to hike up to the top of the fortress and explore it. 2. From the top of it, it has a fantastic view of Bethlehem and the surrounding area. We'll see: Bethlehem Shepherds' Fields The area Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz. Likely canyon David referred to when he wrote Psalm 23. 3. We'll be seeing a model of the fortress inside the visitor center. 4. We'll also be focusing on the life of Herod and the contrast between two kingdoms. Herod's Kingdom versus Christ's Kingdom. Herod chose to build his own kingdom, which is now in ruins. All that's left of it are ruins and the Legacy that he was a baby killer. Herod likely gave the orders to kill all the male children right here from this fortress. We, as well, have two choices in life. We can build our kingdom, which will dissolve and be nothing, or we can be a part of building God's kingdom, which is eternal. 5. On our way down, we'll descend through a secret tunnel to Herod's Tomb and theatre. 6. This site is significant with eternal lessons to be learned. Location 1. The Herodian (Herodium) was a fortress and palace of King Herod located about 3 miles (5 km) south of Bethlehem. 2. It’s on the edge of the Judean Wilderness that lies to the southeast. 3. Nearby dirt just north of the Herodium was hauled and placed upon an already existing mountain to form the Herodium, making it a perfect volcano-like shape. This added height gave it natural protection and allowed Herod to see Jerusalem from its northern tower. 4. It was massive in size and overshadowed everything in the area with its presence and majesty. 5. The location of the Church of the Nativity is northwest, in line with the lower pool complex below the Herodian. Historical Background 1. Rome controlled Israel during the time of Herod. The Romans appointed Herod to rule Israel on their behalf. He reigned from 37 to 4 BC and was the king in power when Christ was born. He was the Herod who killed all the male children two years and younger in the area around Bethlehem in his attempt to kill Christ. 2. In 40 BC, Herod was forced to flee Jerusalem from Antigonus Mattathias, the last Hasmonean king. Antigonus had allied with the Parthians against the Romans. At that time, the Parthians controlled the region of Syria, including Jerusalem, and appointed Antigonus as ruler of Judah. After Antigonus made a treaty with the Parthians (the eastern empire that was fighting the Romans at that time), he pursued Herod and his entourage, catching up with them southeast of Bethlehem, so Herod was forced to flee from Jerusalem. Herod barely survived the desperate battle, and the events of that unforgettable day seem to have led him to build his tomb at the battleground. As a result, he set out for Rome, where the Romans appointed him king of Judah. Against all odds, Herod returned to Judah, conquered Antigonus Mattathias, and ascended to the throne of Judah. The memory of this hard-fought battle, a testament to his resilience and determination, remained etched in his mind. In approximately 28 BC, he began the construction of Herodium, a monument to his triumph, and named it after himself. 3. He’s most known as the one who killed all the babies in Bethlehem, two years old and younger, in his attempt to kill Jesus. Matthew 2:16: Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 4. He was so powerful that with a mere spoken word, he could order a mass execution of children in Bethlehem without approval from anyone. 5. King Herod dominated everything in Israel, and his Herodian Fortress was evidence of his domination and power. 6. He was also a master builder known for building things that defied nature and glorified his name. He built Caesarea Maritime, a deep-water seaport larger than any in Rome, Athens, or Greece. He built Masada, a fortress of protection and a winter palace that supplied 10,000 people for 10 years. He enlarged the Temple Mount, which was an engineering masterpiece. He built a new temple for the Jews that was unparalleled in glory, size, and beauty. He built a massive building over the Caves of the Patriarchs in Hebron. He built this Herodian Fortress, named after himself, among other accomplishments. 7. War was common in his day, so the Herodian was built to protect himself and his kingship from those who tried to kill or remove him. The Herodian was on the highest mountain in the Judean Desert. 8. He had a great fear of betrayal from others attempting to usurp his throne. He had two of his sons strangled, killed numerous in-laws, and ordered his oldest son to be beheaded just before he died. He even had one of his wives killed out of fear that she was in a plot to betray him. 9. Construction of the Herodian began in 25 BC using thousands of slaves. Herod reshaped the hill's summit to create a pleasure palace and a virtually impregnable fortress. 10. The Herodian was the third-largest palace in the world at Herod's time, and it was a monument to his power and glory. 11. It could be seen from many miles away and rose in dominance and prestige. 12. It covered 45 acres (18 hectares) and had a small luxurious city at its base, including swimming pools, spas, a theater, and all the luxuries life could afford. An aqueduct brought water from a spring nearly 4 miles (6 km) away. 13. It had four towers that gave it a commanding view of the Judean Desert, the Dead Sea, and the mountains of Moab. By using mirrors to reflect the sun, Herod could send messages from the Herodian to Jerusalem, Masada, and other places. 14. Herod is remembered as a jealous, self-serving person who built his own kingdom for his own glory. Because he was so despised and hated, at his death, he ordered many prominent Jews to be killed so there would be weeping in Jerusalem. He died at the age of 69 and was buried at the Herodian. 15. Today, all that’s left of Herod’s kingdom and glory are ancient ruins. 16. Another great discovery dating back to the time of King Herod was unearthed here. This site was also used by others seeking to govern this area of Judea. Excavations in 1968 and 1969 reveal that Pontius Pilate also used this site. This is confirmed by the discovery of a very important bronze signet ring bearing a Greek inscription with the word "Pilato" written on it, meaning that it had belonged to Pontius Pilate, probably worn by one of his civil administrators. 17. The Herodian has been used for defense and religious purposes from the time of Herod and Pilate to the present. 18. In 4 BC, Herod died in Jericho of a horrible stomach disease and was buried at the Herodium. Later, during the Jewish revolt around 66 AD, because of the Jews' hatred of Herod, they destroyed his tomb and scattered his bones everywhere. Places of Interest 1. Park Entrance 2. Model of the Herodian Fortress inside the visitor center. 3. Ballista balls to the left shortly after leaving the visitor center. 4. Lower section viewed from on top of the Herodian. Water Pool City Ruins Colonnade Pillars Roman Garden Funeral Complex 2. Upper Section Herodian Palace and Fortress Four Towers of the Palace (north, east, west, and south) Synagogue converted from Herod's living quarters (used from 66–70 AD) Mikvah Bathhouse Cisterns Bar Kokhba Revolt Tunnels (132–136 AD) Remains of churches and monasteries from the Byzantine Period, dating from 350 to 650 AD. Evidence of this can be found in the two apses on the north and south sides, as well as the columns in the middle. Tunnels complex 3. Mountain Slope Facing Jerusalem Royal Theater Herod’s Tomb Staircase going up the mountain. 4. The hill just to the north, where dirt was taken to build the upper part of the Herodium Fortress and shape its lower part. A Contrast of Two Kingdoms in the Bible Herod's Kingdom 1. He was also a master builder known for building things that defied nature and glorified his name. 2. He had two of his sons strangled, killed numerous in-laws, and ordered his oldest son to be beheaded just before he died. He even had one of his wives killed out of fear that she was in a plot to betray him. 3. Herod is remembered as a jealous, self-serving person who built his own kingdom for his own glory. 4. He was so powerful that with a mere spoken word, he could order a mass execution of children in Bethlehem without approval from anyone. 5. He had everything a person without Christ would want in this life. 6. Because he was so despised and hated, at his death, he ordered many prominent Jews to be killed so there would be weeping in Jerusalem. 7. Herod died in Jericho of a horrible stomach disease and was buried at the Herodium. Christ's Kingdom 1. Christ is the eternal majestic King of His kingdom. Isaiah 9:6–7: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace . 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. Micah 5:2: But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel , whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days . John 8:58–59: Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM .” 59 So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple. John 10:31–33: The Jews picked up stones again to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you going to stone me?” 33 The Jews answered him, “It is not for a good work that we are going to stone you but for blasphemy, because you, being a man, make yourself God .” Revelation 22:12–13: Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega , the first and the last, the beginning and the end. 2. Unlike Herod, who only cared about building his own kingdom, Christ came as a lowly servant to serve others. Christ was born in a humble manger in the small frontier town of Bethlehem. He owned no home and had nowhere to lay His head. He held no public office. He rode into Jerusalem on the colt of a donkey, which was a lowly symbol of peace. He washed His disciples’ feet. He died a criminal’s death between two thieves. 3. Unlike Herod, who glorified himself, Christ set aside His glory to become an obedient servant, even unto death on the cross. Philippians 2:5–11: Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied Himself , taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. 8 Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 4. Unlike Herod, whose kingdom came to ruin, Christ changed people and the course of history like no other person. Faith Lesson from the Herodian Fortress 1. Herod mainly cared about his own glory and kingdom. What about us? Are we more like King Herod or King Jesus? 2. We all have an element of King Herod living within us. Will we follow those tendencies and desires? 1 John 2:15–17: Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh, and the desires of the eyes, and pride of life —is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever. 3. Do we have a prideful attitude like Herod or a humble spirit like Christ? 4. Are we mainly building our own kingdom or God’s? 5. What will be our legacy, and what will we leave behind? Matthew 6:19–21: Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Other than the main holy sites we have on our website about southern Israel and the Negev, this page lists many other sites of interest: Dead Sea, Ein Bokek Public Beach, Zohar Public Beach, Kalia Beach, Biankini Beach, Neve Midbar, Ein Gedi Hot Springs, Ziklag Other Sites of Interest In Southern Israel Photo Gallery Places of Interest Other Sites of Interest In Southern Israel Dead Sea What would a trip to Israel be without taking a dip in the famous Dead Sea? Following is some helpful info for helping you decide which beach is best for you. Northern Beaches The northern beaches are privately owned and charge a fee to enter, even if your stay is for a quick dip in the sea. They have more of the mud for skincare, the water is a little cooler, they have higher waves and a little less salt content. However, there is still plenty of salt, so you can float quite easily. For health reasons, a strong warning is given regarding swallowing the saltwater in the Dead Sea. It has 7 times more salt than any other body of water in the world, and it’s easy to get salt poisoning if even a small amount of water is ingested. All the beaches have changing rooms, restrooms, showers, and bathrooms. All have great places to eat at and shop. The northern beaches have gift shops, while the southern beaches have access to gift shops, but they’re not always right at the resorts. 1. Kalia Beach – Less waves, cheaper entrance fee. 2. Biankini Beach 3. Neve Midbar 4. Ein Gedi Hot Springs – More expensive entrance fees, natural hot mineral springs. Southern Beaches The southern beaches have a higher concentration of salt, are more turquoise in color, have more transparent water, are more gradual with fewer waves, are smoother, and are free as they are public beaches. 1. Ein Bokek Public Beach 2. Zohar Public Beach 3. Segregated Public Beach – This beach separates the men from the women for Jewish reasons. Ziklag While the exact location of biblical Ziklag is debated, most archaeologists now place it at Tel Ser'a (Tel esh-Shariah), which is in the southernmost area of Judea about 14 miles (23 km.) northwest of Tel Beer Sheba and about 15 miles (24 km.) east of Gaza. Ziklag is first mentioned in the Bible as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Judah (Josh. 15:31). It was allotted to the tribe of Simeon (within the tribe of Judah), but the Israelites apparently failed to conquer it because Ziklag was still under Philistine control when Saul reigned as king (Josh. 19:5). Because for many years King Saul sought to harm David, David fled to Ziklag seeking refuge after the death of Samuel. As a result, he lived in Ziklag with six hundred men and their households in Philistine territory. While living in Ziklag, David petitioned Achish, the Philistine king of Gath, to give him the city of Ziklag (1 Sam. 27:5–6). Achish consented and gave Ziklag to David. During David’s rule over Ziklag, which lasted 16 months, he made it his military home base. From Ziklag, David raided many of the cities of the Amalekites. Because many soldiers from Israel were disappointed with Saul’s leadership, they joined forces with David’s private army during this time (1 Chron. 12:1–22). When war broke out between the Philistines and Israel during the reign of King Saul, David and his small army attempted to join the Philistine army to fight against Saul. However, the Philistine leaders rejected David and sent him away from the battle. While David and the Philistines were away, the Amalekites attacked Ziklag. They burned the city and took captive all the women, children, and the elderly. When David and his men returned to Ziklag, they found it had been destroyed by fire, and their families had been taken captive (1 Sam. 30:1–3). In response, David and his army pursued the Amalekites and recovered their families and possessions. (1 Sam. 30:16–31). While David was living in Ziklag, he received the news of the defeat of Israel by the Philistines and Saul and Jonathan's deaths (2 Samuel 4:10). Ziklag remained in control of Israel from this point on and is last mentioned in the Bible as one of the cities the Jews inhabited after returning from exile in Babylon (Neh. 11:28).

If you want an in-depth Bible-centered trip and see more holy sites in Israel than other tours, then this trip is designed for you. Holy Land Trips Final Payment Secure Payment Link Holy Land Trip Final Payment To complete your final deposit payment, please send your payment of $1,450 by either credit card, PayPal, or check. The payment is set up for single and double payments. Just select the one that applies to you. If paying by credit card or PayPal, a 4% fee is added to your total amount due to fees charged by credit cards and PayPal. If paying by credit card or PayPal, click the button below. PayPal does not require you to create a PayPal account to use your credit card. Please refresh your browser before paying for latest button updates. Single Person Payment $1,450 Double Person Payment $2,900 If paying by check, please send your check to the following address: Holy Land Site (make check payable to this name, please) 6945 Burnett St., SE Salem, OR, 97317-5202

Learn about Ashkelon and the 5 cities of the Philistines. What all happened in Ashdod? What is its history? Who were the Philistines, where did they come from, and where did they live? They are mentioned in many places in the Old Testament and were the enemies of the Israelites. The Other Cities Were: Ashdod, Ekron, Gaza, & Gath. Biblical Ashkelon Photo Gallery Places of Interest Ashkelon Location 1. Ashkelon is located just south of Ashdod. It also is on the Mediterranean Ocean and was one of the five cities of the Philistines. Historical Background 1. South of the modern city of Ashkelon is a large National park with ruins of the ancient city. It has a history of 4,000 years and was a port city located on the main trade route from Egypt to the North. It started as a huge fortified Canaanite city and continued as a Philistine city, turning into a thriving commercial center and independent city during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. 2. The origin of the name Ashkelon appears to come from the word “shekel,” denoting a measure of weight – a fitting name for a commercial port city. 3. The specific name Ashkelon is mentioned in the Egyptian execration texts of the 19th century BC, and it appears again in other, later Egyptian inscriptions. 4. Ashkelon has the world's oldest Canaanite Gate in the world which dates back to almost 4000 years ago. 5. Ashkelon also played a part in the battle against the Assyrians. Zedaka, the ruler of Ashkelon, joined the rebellion of Hezekiah, king of Judah (701 BCE). In response, Sennacherib, king of Assyria, took over the city and replaced the treacherous ruler with one of his subjects. 6. The city changed hands many times after that, as Greeks and Maccabees and Romans and Muslims and Crusaders all had their turn. Some think that Herod the Great was born in Ashkelon; the fact is that he did build a palace and aqueduct there. 7. The Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, who came to the city later, was less merciful. In 604 BC, he deported Aga, the last Philistine king of Ashkelon, and razed the city to the ground. 8. During the Persian period, Ashkelon was a prosperous commercial city under the auspices of the port cities of Tyre and Sidon. 9. It was used as a border fortress by the Crusaders from around 1100-1191 AD. However, Saladin destroyed the Ashkelon fortress in AD 1191 (during the end of the Crusader Period). As a result, the city lay in ruins for a century. This basically ended its history. 10. After this time, a town was built by Arabs near the original site of Ashkelon and called Al-Majdal. 11. Today, a large national park beautifully preserves the history of ancient Ashkelon. It's well worth a visit if you have a chance to see it. Places of Interest 1. The Canaanite Gate 2. The Rampart 3. Medieval Walls 4. The Roman Basilica 5. St. Mary Viridis Church 6. Wells: Within the national park, there are 67 wells, the majority of them from the Byzantine period. 7. Natural sand dunes and landscapes. Ashkelon in the Bible 1. Joshua and the Israelites conquered Ashkelon in the conquest of the Promised Land (Josh. 13:3), and it was allotted to Judah, who then occupied it (Judg. 1:18). 2. One of the golden tumors (emerods) that was returned with the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines was from Ashkelon. 1 Samuel 6:17: Now these are the gold tumors which the Philistines returned as a guilt offering to the Lord: one for Ashdod , one for Gaza , one for Ashkelon , one for Gath , and one for Ekron . 3. Askelon is mentioned by David when, after Saul and Jonathan die, he lamented and mourned over them. 2 Samuel 1:19-20: Your beauty, Israel, is slaughtered on your high places! How the mighty have fallen! 20 Tell it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon , or the daughters of the Philistines will rejoice, the daughters of the uncircumcised will celebrate. 4. Ashkelon was also denounced by Jeremiah (Jer. 25:20, 47:5–7), Zephaniah (2:4–7), and Zechariah (9:5). Faith Lesson from Ashkelon 1. God used the Philistines to punish the Israelites because they turned away from Him and followed false gods. In the same way, God often uses people in our lives to get us back on track with the Lord when we stray. 2. God judged the city of Ashkelon and held them accountable for their sins. In the same way, God will hold those who reject Him accountable today as well. We will all stand before God and give an account for our lives. 3. What about us? Are we right with God and letting our lights shine to a world that needs God and His salvation through Jesus Christ?

Every kind of resource for learning about the Holy Land. Bible videos, talks, maps, information, and much more. See amazing and interesting facts and truths about Israel, the Holy Land. Videos, maps, books, talks, archaeology, Bible teachings, history, walls, gates, people, and language of the people and places in Israel. Jerusalem, Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea, Masada, Negev, Nazareth, Bethlehem, Hebron, Shechem, Samaria, Jordan River, Beersheba, and more. Learning Resources Helpful Holy Land Learning Resources Books by Dr. Todd M. Fink Old Testament Detailed Bible Timeline New Testament Detailed Bible Timeline List of the Good and Bad Kings of Israel and Judah Timeline of Israel's History Maps of Israel ~ High Definition Holy Sites Bible Verses Photos and Info About the Holy Land Chronological Order of the Byzantine Empire History of the Holy Land from the Beginning Until Present Timeline of the Life of Christ Timeline of the Life of Christ (pdf format) Map of the Holy Land During the Time of Christ Website with Many Maps of the Holy Land and Surrounding Areas Map of Abraham's Journey to the Holy Land Map of the Travel Locations of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph Travels of Moses and the Children of Israel Location of the 12 Tribes of Israel in the Holy Land Harmony of the 4 Gospels (Chronological timeline of events of the Life of Jesus) Biblical Sites for Christian Visitors Booklet Great Website for photos and info on the Holy Land Chronology of the Byzantine Empire (330-1453 A.D.) Maps for Purchase Map of Israel Map of Jerusalem Satellite Poster of Israel In the Footsteps of Jesus Map Sea of Galilee Booklet & Map Via Dolorosa Booklet & Map Posters & Maps in General

Learn about Gaza and the 5 cities of the Philistines. What all happened in Ashdod? What is its history? Who were the Philistines, where did they come from, and where did they live? They are mentioned in many places in the Old Testament and were the enemies of the Israelites. The Other Cities Were: Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron, and Gath. Biblical Gaza Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gaza Location 1. Gaza is located south of Ashkelon and Ashdod, it also is on the Mediterranean Ocean and was one of the cities of the Philistine Pentapolis. It is the southernmost city. Today, virtually no ruins remain from this city as it has been destroyed in later years due to what appears to be political reasons. 2. It was on a hill rising about 200 ft. (61 m.) above the valley floor. There were sand dunes between it and the sea, which was about 2 miles away. 3. Today, because ancient Gaza lies in the Gaza Strip, where land is scarce and Israeli interests are not valued, the remains of ancient Gaza are practically nonexistent. Gaza in the Bible 1. In the conquest of the Promised Land, Joshua and the Israelites failed to conquer Gaza, along with several other main cities of the Philistines (Josh. 10:41, 11:22). 2. Later, the tribe of Judah captured Gaza but couldn’t control it for long, and it fell back into the hands of the Philistines (Judg. 1:18). 3. Samson had many encounters with the Philistines. In one encounter, Samson carried heavy gates from Gaza all the way to the Hebron area, a distance of around 42 miles (72 km.). Judges 16:1: Now Samson went to Gaza and saw a prostitute there, and had relations with her. Judges 16:3: Now Samson lay asleep until midnight, and at midnight he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate and the two doorposts, and pulled them up along with the bars; then he put them on his shoulders, and carried them up to the top of the mountain which is opposite Hebron . 4. Samson met his death in Gaza. Judges 16:28-30: Then Samson called to the Lord and said, “Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time, O God, that I may at once take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes.” 29 Then Samson grasped the two middle pillars on which the house rested, and braced himself against them, the one with his right hand and the other with his left. 30 And Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” And he pushed outwards powerfully, so that the house fell on the governors and all the people who were in it. And the dead whom he killed at his death were more than those whom he killed during his lifetime. 5. After the Philistines defeated the Israelites in battle and captured the Ark of the Covenant during the priesthood of Eli and his two wicked sons, Gaza, along with the other main cities of the Philistines, sent a trespass offering to God when the ark was returned to the Israelites at Beth-Shemesh (1 Sam. 6:17–18). 6. When Hezekiah reigned, he defeated and pursued the Philistines to Gaza but did not seem to have captured the city. However, the Assyrians later captured it in 720 BC. 7. In the New Testament, Philip was sent to Gaza to evangelize the Ethiopian eunuch. Acts 8:26: But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Get ready and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza .” Faith Lesson from Gaza 1. The Israelites failed to conquer the people of Gaza and as a result, they caused continual problems for Israel. In the same way, if we fail to be victorious over sin and problems in our lives we will continue to suffer the consequences as well. 2. God used Samson to reveal Himself as God to those of Gaza. Therefore, they knew who the true God was and had no excuse for rejecting Him. 3. Unfortunately, Samson failed in many ways to fulfill the mission and calling God intended for him. He met his death in Gaza as a defeated, blind servant instead of a strong victorious, and successful servant. 4. What about us? Are we victorious successful servants of God or do we live weak defeated lives? God gives us all the power and grace we need to be victorious. Romans 8:37: No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.