The Tomb of Mary (mother of Jesus), also known as the Church of the Sepulchre of Saint Mary, is located just a little north of the Garden of Gethsemane in the Kidron Valley. Sites of interest include: Mary’s Chapel, Mary’s Tomb, Copt altar, Garden of Gethsemane, Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat), Temple Mount Mary's Tomb: The Mother of Jesus Photo Gallery Places of Interest Mary's Tomb, Mother of Jesus Introduction 1. The New Testament is silent regarding the death and burial of Mary, but strong Christian tradition places her tomb at this site. 2. Some Orthodox and Catholic churches teach that Mary died a natural death at her home on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, where the Dormition Abbey stands today. She was then laid to rest at her tomb at this site, and after three days, her body was taken up into heaven, and her tomb was found empty. Because there were no cemeteries near the Dormition Abbey at the time of her death, she was buried here. 3. Protestants believe Mary died a natural death and was buried at her tomb location here. 4. This building houses the Tomb of Mary. It is the underground crypt of a church that no longer exists. The room is dark, with walls blackened by centuries of smoke, giving it an ancient feel. Icons adorn the space, and numerous hanging oil lamps cast a soft glow over the tomb. 5. On the way down the steps, there are two chapels. On the left is the Chapel of Joseph (Jesus' earthly father), and on the right is the Chapel of Mary's parents, Hanna and Joachim. 6. It's a fascinating place with around 2,000 years of history. Let's explore and experience this site. Location The Tomb of Mary, also known as the Church of the Sepulchre of St. Mary, is located just a little north of the Garden of Gethsemane in the Kidron Valley. Right beside the Tomb of Mary Church is the Gethsemane Cave Complex. Historical Background 1. The New Testament is silent regarding the death and burial of Mary, but strong Christian tradition places her tomb at this site. 2. The church is in an underground rock-cut cave in the shape of a cross. A wide staircase leads down to the church. It is dimly lit and features blackish ceilings, a result of centuries of candle burning. 3. The church began as burial caves that were cut into rock in the 1st century. 4. These caves were later expanded in 455 AD into a cross-shaped church with Mary's Tomb in its center. 5. The large crypt containing the empty tomb in the church is all that remains of an early 5th-century AD church. 6. In the 6th century AD, an octagon-shaped church was built on the upper level, covering the tomb. However, the Persians destroyed it in 614. 7. During the Crusader period (1130), the church was rebuilt and included a Benedictine monastery called the Abbey Church of St. Mary of Jehosaphat. Saladin destroyed virtually everything in 1187 except the south entrance and staircase. 8. After the Crusaders left, the site was taken over by the Franciscans. Since then, Greeks, Armenians, Syrians, Copts, Abyssinians, and Muslims have shared it. 9. Muslims also worship here, and on the wall to the right of the Tomb of Mary is a mihrab niche, giving the direction of Mecca. It was installed after Saladin’s conquest in the 12th Century. 10. According to Catholic tradition, Mary ascended into heaven. Her tomb at this church is empty, but it serves as a shrine honoring this event. Protestants believe Mary died a natural death and was buried here as a result. Places of Interest 1. Gethsemane Cave Complex This is believed to be where Jesus and the disciples often stayed in Jerusalem, and where Jesus was arrested before His crucifixion. Eyewitnesses from the fourth and sixth centuries attest to the remains of original artifacts that this was the authentic place where the Gethsemane Press was and where Jesus was arrested the night before being crucified. 2. Church of the Sepulchre of S t. Mary The modern upper level of the church. Forty-seven steps lead down to the dimly lit church. Along the way down the steps, two chapels stand. On the left is the Chapel of Joseph (Jesus' earthly father), and on the right is the Chapel of Mary's parents, Hanna (Anna) and Joachim. Mary’s Chapel Mary’s Tomb Mary was buried in a bench-type tomb, similar to the one Jesus lay in. Around 455 AD, people carved away the rock around her tomb, leaving a naturally chiseled square building, or what we call an edicule, meaning "little house." This natural-stone edicule still surrounds Mary’s tomb today. Interestingly, this construction was almost identical to how Jesus’ original tomb was built centuries earlier—a tomb made of the natural stone that originally encased it. Copt Altar 3. Gethsemane 4. Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat) 5. Temple Mount The Life of Mary in the Bible 1. Mary was a godly woman who had the privilege of being the mother of Jesus. Luke 1:26–31: Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was very perplexed at this statement and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was. 30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. 2. Mary treasured the privilege of being Christ’s earthly mother. Luke 2:19: But Mary treasured all these things , pondering them in her heart. 3. Being the mother of Jesus would come with a high price. Luke 2:34–35: And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, His mother, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— 35 and a sword will pierce even your own soul —to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” 4. Mary was an obedient woman, submitting to God and her husband in all things. Matthew 2:13: Now when they had gone, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up! Take the Child and His mother and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him.” 5. Because Christ’s earthly father, Joseph, is not mentioned after Christ was 12 years old, and because Christ entrusted the Apostle John with her care at His death, it appears she became a widow at an early age. John 19:25–27: But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” From that hour the disciple took her into his own household. 6. Mary witnessed the crucifixion of her Son on the Cross. John 19:25: Therefore, the soldiers did these things. But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 7. Mary continued to support the apostles and was part of serving the cause of Jesus after His resurrection. Acts 1:14: All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus , and his brothers. Faith Lesson from the Life of Mary 1. Mary was a deeply devoted woman to be honored, but nowhere in Scripture is she worshiped, nor are we commanded to worship or pray to her. 2 . The Lord highly favored Mary because of her love and obedience to Him. When we obey and seek the Lord, He favors us as well. 3. Our obedience doesn’t earn God’s love, but it does bring blessing and favor. 4 . We could learn a lot from the life of Mary and should emulate her faith and devotion to God.

Nazareth is where Jesus grew up. Later, Jesus returned to His hometown and was rejected by His own people. They were so angry that He claimed to be the Messiah that they attempted to throw Him off a cliff. This cliff is known today as Mt. Precipice. Nazareth had an estimated population of around 300 during the time of Christ. It’s a famous town because this is where the Angel Gabriel announced the miraculous virgin birth to Mary. Nazareth: Mount Precipice Nazareth: Mount Precipice Location 1. Nazareth is in the northern part of Israel in the lower Galilee area. 2. It’s about 15 miles (24 km.) southwest of the Sea of Galilee, about 3.5 miles (5.6 km.) southwest of Cana, and about 23 miles (37 km.) inland from the Mediterranean Sea. Historical Background 1. Nazareth had an estimated population of around 300 during the time of Christ. 2. It’s a famous town because this is where the Angel Gabriel announced the miraculous virgin birth to Mary. 3. Nazareth is also the place where Jesus grew up. 4. It was a small farming town where everyone knew each other. 5. For some reason, Nazareth had a bad reputation (John 1:43-46). Places of Interest 1. Nazareth 2. Hometown of Jesus 3. Mt. Precipice 4. Church of the Annunciation (Basilica of the Annunciation) 5. Mary’s Well 6. Greek Catholic Church 7. Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation 8. St. Joseph’s Church 9. Mensa Christi Church 10. Greek Catholic Church 11. Synagogue Church Now, this synagogue where Jesus preached here in Nazareth still exists to this day. According to Christian tradition, the church is built on the ruins of the ancient Nazareth synagogue where Jesus studied, prayed, and then preached at in His visit here when they attempted to throw Him off the cliff. This synagogue is simply named today, “the Synagogue Church.” Ancient tradition maintains that this Synagogue Church stands atop the synagogue where Jesus worshipped as a young man. In fact, in A.D. 570, the anonymous northern Italian “Pilgrim of Piacenza” — the last western Christian writer to visit Palestine before the Muslim conquest that occurred less than a century later — claimed to have seen not only the ancient synagogue itself but the original Scriptures from which Jesus had read, as well as the bench on which Jesus used to sit as a young man. During Byzantine times, Christian believers started attending this place, and in Medieval times the synagogue was turned into a church. The church was later destroyed, but a stone structure marking the location of the first-century synagogue is still intact. Its floor is 6 feet lower than street level, and its roof is arched, a typical element in medieval architecture. A marble pillar next to its entrance is dated to the Roman period. This column is the only possible genuine remnant of the ancient synagogue. A raised platform in its northern end holds an altar. By local tradition, this is where Jesus read from Isaiah to the local congregation. The current “Synagogue Church” is a 12th-century Crusader structure located in the area of Nazareth’s medieval market, just a few minutes’ walk from the Church of the Annunciation and directly adjacent to the Greek Catholic Church of the Annunciation. The Synagogue Church is visited by just a fraction of those coming to see the Church of the Annunciation, perhaps because of its hidden location. The site is maintained by the Melkite Greek Catholics, who added an adjacent modern church which was completed in 1887. Nazareth In the Bible 1. Nazareth was the home of Joseph and Mary and the place where the angel Gabriel was sent to announce to the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Christ the Messiah. There has been a church built here to commemorate this announcement called, “The Church of the Annunciation.” Luke 1:26-38 says, “In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!" But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." And Mary said to the angel, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" And the angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy--the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God." And Mary said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.” 2. After living in Egypt for some time after Christ’s birth, His parents returned to Nazareth where Jesus grew up. Matt. 2:19-23: “But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, "Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead." And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled: "He shall be called a Nazarene." 3. Jesus lived Nazareth until He started His earthly ministry at the age of 30. From Nazareth, Christ relocated and set up His ministry home base in Capernaum. Matthew 4:13-17: “And leaving Nazareth he went and lived in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles-- the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned." From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." 4. Jesus was rejected by His own townspeople at Nazareth and was unable to perform many miracles there due to their lack of faith in Him. Luke 4:14-27 - And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and a report about him went out through all the surrounding country. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read. And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." And all spoke well of him and marveled at the gracious words that were coming from his mouth. And they said, "Is not this Joseph's son?" And he said to them, "Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, 'Physician, heal yourself.' What we have heard you did at Capernaum, do here in your hometown as well." And he said, "Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his hometown. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heavens were shut up three years and six months, and a great famine came over all the land, and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. And there were many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian." 5. Those who knew Christ the best rejected Him and attempted to throw Him off a cliff close-by to their town. Today, this place is called, Mt. Precipice, named after this event. Luke 4:28-30: “When they heard these things, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath. And they rose up and drove him out of the town and brought him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they could throw him down the cliff. But passing through their midst, he went away. Faith Lesson 1. Am I oftentimes misunderstood by my family and friends like Christ was? 2. I should love my family and friends, but if they don’t understand my commitment to Christ, I shouldn’t allow them to negatively affect my relationship with Christ and be discouraged. Jesus said we must love Him more than our closest relationships. 3. Do I love Christ more than my family and friends? In Matt. 10:37 Christ said, “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”

Tel Jezreel was a biblical fortified city located on the southern ridge of the beautiful Jezreel Valley in the Lower Galilee region of northern Israel. The tel sits 100 meters above the valley and covers approximately 22 acres. It is strategically located close to the ancient Via Maris trade route running from north to south and was an important stop along the way. Ruins at the site reveal it was the site of an ancient fortified settlement in the 800s BC built for King Omri. Tel Jezreel Photo Gallery Places of Interest Tel Jezreel Location 1. Tel Jezreel was a biblical fortified city located on the southern ridge of the beautiful Jezreel Valley in the Lower Galilee region of northern Israel. 2. The tel sits 100 meters above the valley and covers approximately 22 acres. It is strategically located close to the ancient Via Maris trade route running from north to south and was an important stop along the way. 3. Its strategic location on the entrance to the north-south trade route made the city a gatekeeper like Lachish, Gezer, Megiddo, and Hazor, which were located on the international highway known as the Via Maris (way of the sea). Historical Background 1. Tel Jezreel was a major Biblical city in the northern Kingdom of Israel. The capital of Israel was Samaria, but Jezreel is often presented as the Israelite king’s second or winter capital. 2. The Bible tells about many events associated with the city. 3. Excavations reveal that the city was inhabited in the Canaanite/Late Bronze period in around the 15th Century BC, and then later in the Israelite/Iron period. 4. The city belonged to the region of the tribe of Issachar. 5. Archaeological findings dating to the Iron Age include a large enclosure surrounded by a moat, a gate with six chambers, and large towers. These findings are dated to around 880 BC, which would have been during the reign of King Omri and Ahab. 6. In 722 BC, the Jezreel and the northern Kingdom of Israel were conquered by the Assyrians and many of the people were led away to Assyria as captives. 7. During the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine Periods, the city continued to be an important gateway along the main road from north to south. 8. Jesus would have passed through the city of Jezreel on his journies from the Galilee area to Jerusalem. 9. The Crusaders who followed also left structures and remains of a medieval church which were uncovered in excavations. 10. The Ottomans inhabited the Tel in the 19th century. 11. In more recent history, the Tel was the site of major battles in 1948 when the State of Israel was established. On the Tel, you can see a memorial to the Palmach fighters who died in the battle. Places of Interest at Tel Jezreel 1. Biblical walls that are mentioned several times in the Bible. The walls once enclosed the ancient fortress complex. One of the famous Biblical scenes is of Queen Jezebel being thrown over the walls: “The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the walls of Jezreel.” 2. Likely place of King Ahab's Palace 3. Winepress 4. Spring 5. Tower Places of Interest Around Tel Jezreel 1. Jezreel Valley (Valley of Armageddon) 2. Mountains of Gilboa ~ Place King Saul and his sons were killed by the Philistines. 3. En Dor ~ Place King Saul met with a woman diviner who contacted Samuel from the dead. 4. Mount Tabor ~ Likely place of the transfiguration of Jesus. 5. Gideon's Spring ~ Place God chose 300 men to defeat the Midianites. 6. Beth Shean ~ Place the bodies of King Saul and his sons were hanged after the Philistines killed them in battle. Jezreel & Samaria In the Bible 1. The City of Jezreel was in the territory of the tribe of Issachar, as found in Joshua 19:17-18. 2. King Saul, on the eve of the fatal battle with the Philistines, camped with his army near the spring of Jezreel. The battle was fought in Jezreel Valley and on Mount Gilboa the following day. King Saul died fighting this battle together with his 3 sons. 1 Samuel 29:1: Now the Philistines gathered together all their armies to Aphek, while the Israelites were camping by the spring which is in Jezreel . 1 Samuel 31:1: Now the Philistines were fighting against Israel, and the men of Israel fled from the Philistines but fell fatally wounded on Mount Gilboa. 2 And the Philistines also overtook Saul and his sons, and the Philistines killed Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of Saul. 3 . The great showdown between the 850 false prophets of Baal, Asherah, and Elijah took place on Mount Carmel, just 30 miles (50 km) north of Samaria. 1 Kings 18:20–21: So Ahab sent to all the people of Israel and gathered the prophets together at Mount Carmel . 21 And Elijah came near to all the people and said, “How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” And the people did not answer him a word. 4. After the prophet Elijah's great victory over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, Elijah instructed Ahab to return home to Jezreel to report the news to his wife, Jezebel (Jezreel is around 30 miles or 50 km. from Mount Carmel). 1 Kings 18:45–46: Meanwhile the sky became dark with clouds and wind came up, and there was a heavy shower. And Ahab rode and went to Jezreel . 46 Then the hand of the Lord was on Elijah, and he belted his cloak around his waist and outran Ahab to Jezreel . 6. King Ahab had a palace in Jezreel. 1 Kings 21:1–3: Now Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel , beside the palace of Ahab king of Samaria . 7. King Ahab killed Naboth to acquire his vineyard. This event occurred north of Samaria at Ahab's summer palace of Tel Jezreel. 1 Kings 21:1–3: Now Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel, beside the palace of Ahab king of Samaria . 2 And after this Ahab said to Naboth, “Give me your vineyard, that I may have it for a vegetable garden, because it is near my house, and I will give you a better vineyard for it; or, if it seems good to you, I will give you its value in money.” 3 But Naboth said to Ahab, “The Lord forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers.” 7. God killed King Ahab because of his great wickedness. 1 Kings 22:37–38: So the king died, and was brought to Samaria . And they buried the king in Samaria . 38 And they washed the chariot by the pool of Samaria, and the dogs licked up his blood, and the prostitutes washed themselves in it, according to the word of the Lord that he had spoken. 8. The fall of wicked Queen Jezebel took place as prophesied by Elijah. 2 Kings 9:30–37: When Jehu came to Jezreel, Jezebel heard about it, and she put makeup on her eyes and adorned her head, and looked down through the window. 31 As Jehu entered the gate, she said, “Is your intention peace, Zimri, his master’s murderer?” 32 Then he raised his face toward the window and said, “Who is with me, who?” And two or three officials looked down at him. 33 Then he said, “Throw her down.” So they threw her down, and some of her blood spattered on the wall and on the horses, and he trampled her underfoot. 34 When he came in, he ate and drank; and he said, “See now to this cursed woman and bury her, for she is a king’s daughter.” 35 So they went to bury her, but they found nothing of her except the skull, the feet, and the palms of her hands. 36 Therefore they returned and informed him. And he said, “This is the word of the Lord, which He spoke by His servant Elijah the Tishbite, saying, ‘On the property of Jezreel the dogs shall eat the flesh of Jezebel; 37 and the corpse of Jezebel will be like dung on the face of the field in the property of Jezreel, so they cannot say, “This is Jezebel.”’” In 2 Kings 10:8 Jehu orders the death of 70 descendants of Ahab, and has their heads sent to the new king in Jezreel and piled up in "two heaps at the gate entrance." 9. Jezreel is also mentioned in the book of Hosea, where God commands Hosea to name his son "Jezreel" because I will soon punish the house of Jehu for the massacre at Jezreel, and I will put an end to the kingdom of Israel" (Hosea 1:4). God also tells Hosea as to a future event, "I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord. And it shall come to pass in that day, I will hear, saith the Lord, I will hear the heavens, and they shall hear the earth; And the earth shall hear the corn, and the wine, and the oil; and they shall hear Jezreel." (Hosea 2:21–22). Hosea also mentions, "In that day I will break Israel’s bow in the Valley of Jezreel." (Hosea 1:5). Faith Lesson from Samaria 1. Unfortunately, the division of the Nation of Israel into two parts was born out of disobedience to God. It began with King Solomon, and then all the following kings of the northern kingdom walked in disobedience to God. What about us? When we live in constant disobedience to God, one of the consequences will be division. Division between God and us and between our families, friends, and virtually everything else. 2. Nonetheless, God sent prophet after prophet to warn them to leave their false Gods and return to Him. God is patient with us, but we must heed His word and the input of others in our lives as well. 3. God extended mercy and patience upon them despite their continual rejection of Him. God does the same for us, but there will come a time when God will have to change methods to get our attention and help us to change. 4. Because of their hardhearted rejection, God had no choice but to discipline the Northern Kingdom and deport most of them to Assyria. God will do the same to us if we continually disobey Him. 5. Do we really believe that disobedience to God causes pain and suffering? Romans 8:6 makes this very clear. It says, "For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace." 6. Do we understand that God is merciful and patient but disciplines those He loves (Heb. 12:7–11)? God loves us so much that He is unwilling to allow us to live in continual disobedience. He knows it causes us death and destruction, so He disciplines us to cause us to change and turn to Him. 7. The Samaritan people gladly received the gospel under Philip’s preaching. Do we realize that those living in darkness are the most receptive to the light? Sometimes we think that those living in darkness and disobedience to God won't listen. However, most of the time, it's just the opposite. Those living in death and destruction are secretly looking for change and a way out of their pain. We should share Christ with everyone and realize God is working in their lives.

See every Bible Site in Israel In-depth! Everything about Israel: Maps, Videos, Books about Israel, Tours, Holy Land Trips to Israel, Footsteps of Jesus, Bible Teachings, Jerusalem, Galilee, Samaria, Bethlehem, Masada, Dead Sea, Capernaum, Negev, Nazareth, Experience Israel Online. Christian Tour Trips to Israel. Exodus Route, Red Sea Crossing, Mount Sinai in Arabia, Noah's Ark, Temple Mount, Temple, City of David, Church of Holy Sepulchre, Church of Nativity, Church of Annunciation, Jordan All Biblical Sites of Israel Biblical Sites Israel Overview Tour of All Biblical Sites Jerusalem Sites Jerusalem Overview Jerusalem Holy Sites Overview Jerusalem Old City Tour Jerusalem Model City Tour: Time of Jesus Jerusalem Model Tour: Byzantine Period Antonia Fortress Bethany: Tomb of Lazarus Bethphage Cardo Chapel of the Ascension: Ascension & Return of Christ Church of the Holy Sepulchre History & Background Church of the Holy Sepulchre In-depth Tour Church of Mary Magdalene City of David Overview Death, Burial, Resurrection of Christ Dominus Flevit Church Dormition Abbey Eastern Gate Eastern Wall of Temple Mount Gates of Jerusalem History Gethsemane & Church of All Nations Gethsemane Cave Grotto Gordon's Garden Tomb Herod & Pilate's Palace: Trial of Jesus Hezekiah's Broad Wall Hezekiah's Water Tunnel Hinnom Valley Overview History Of Jerusalem's Walls House of Caiaphas: Peter's Denial of Christ Jerusalem Archaeological Site & Southern Stairs Jesus' Final Hours & Path to the Cross Kidron Valley: Judgment of God Mary's Tomb Mount of Olives Overview Pater Noster Church: Lord's Prayer, Olivet Discourse Pilgrimage Road: Pool of Siloam to the Temple Mount Pool of Bethesda & St. Anne Church Pool of Siloam Prophecy, Proof t he Bible Is True: Mount of Olives Prison of Christ/Apostles Sisters of Sion, Ecce Homo Arch, Antonia Fortress Solomon's Temple Temple Mount Overview Temple Location Temple Mount: Pentecost Temple Cleansing by Jesus Temple & the Early Church The Old Testament Feasts & Jesus The Upper Room Tomb of King David Tombs of the Prophets Tower of David ~ Herod's Palace Triumphal Entry Via Dolorosa Walls of Jerusalem History Western Wall & Plaza (Kotel) Western Wall Tunnels Tour Zedekiah's Cave & Solomon's Quarry Other Sites In Jerusalem Sea of Galilee Sites Sea of Galilee Overview Bethsaida Calling of the Disciples Capernaum : Jesus' Ministry Base Chorazin Feeding the 5,000 Gennesaret, Ginosar: Jesus Boat Boat Ride: Jesus Walks on Water, Calms the Sea Kursi: Demonic Man Healed Magdala: Mary Magdalene Mount Arbel: The Great Commission Mount of Beatitudes Sower's Cove: Parables of the Kingdom Tabgha: Restoration of Peter Yardenit Baptismal Site Other Sites Around the Sea of Galilee Northern Israel Sites Beth Shean Beth Shean Amphitheater Caesarea Maritima Overview Caesarea Maritima: Holy Spirit Given to the Gentiles Caesarea Philippi Cana: First Miracle of Jesus Church of the Annunciation & St. Joseph Church Dan (City of Dan) Gideon's Spring Hazor J ezreel Overview Jordan River Overview Megiddo: Armageddon Mount Carmel & Elijah Mount Tabor: Transfiguration of Christ Nazareth Overview Nazareth: Mt. Precipice Nimrod Fortress Sepphoris (Tsipori, Zippori) Other Sites in Northern Israel Central Israel Sites Ai Bethel Beth-Shemesh Ein Karem (Kerem) Emmaus Road Gezer: On Crossroads of the World Gibeon - Nabi Samwil Gilgal Inn of the Good Samaritan Jericho ~ Tell Es-Sultan Joppa (Jaffa, Yafo) Overview Jordan River: Crossing into the Promised Land Jordan River Baptismal Site of Jesus (Qsar al-Yahud) Judean Wilderness Judean Wilderness: Testing of Jesus Mount Nebo & Moses Philistine Cities of Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gaza, Ekron, Gath Qumran: Dead Sea Scrolls Samaria (Sabastia) Shechem Shechem: Jacob's Well Shechem: Joseph's Tomb Shiloh: Center of Worship St. George's Monastery (Wadi Qelt) Timnah: Life of Samson Valley of Elah: David & Goliath Other Sites in Central Israel Southern Israel Sites Arad Ashdod Ashkelon Beer Sheba: The Patriarchs Bethlehem Overview Bethlehem: Church of Nativity Bethlehem: David & the Psalms Bethlehem: Naomi, Ruth, Boaz Bethlehem: Shepherds' Field Dead Sea Area Ekron En-Gedi: Living Waters Exodus, Red Sea Crossing, Mt. Sinai Gath Gaza Hebron Overview Hebron Caves of Machpelah Herodian (Herodium) Fortress Oaks of Mamre, Hebron Kadesh Barnea Lachish Masada Mount Sinai Sodom & Gomorrah The Philistines & Their City Strongholds Timna Park: Tabernacle, Moses Other Sites In Southern Israel Other Biblical Sites Exod us, Red Sea Crossing, Mt. Sinai Garden of Eden Location Madaba ( Map), Jordan Mount Nebo & Moses Noah's Ark & the Great Flood Noah's Ark Location Petra, Jordan Other Biblical Videos Life & Ministry of Jesus Series Jewish Holy Days & How Jesus Fulfills Them Future of Israel: Its Wars, Conflicts, Prophecies Shroud of Turin (Jesus). Fact or Fiction? What Are the Differences Between Islam and Christianity? Who Has the Rights to the Holy Land? Jews or Arabs? What Is the Reason for the War and Conflicts in Israel and the Middle East?

Shiloh was the religious and military capital of Israel during the times of the Judges, and the tabernacle resided here for 369 years. It was the first place where the Tabernacle became a permanent structure. The site includes: 6th-century Byzantine Church, Northern 4th and 6th-century Byzantine Church (4th-century church contains the inscription "Shiloh"), Mosque, Baptistry, Oil Press, Storerooms, Canaanite Wall, Visitor Tower, Tabernacle Location, Ancient Walls Ancient Shiloh Photo Gallery Places of Interest Shiloh Introduction 1. After the conquest of the land was basically complete, the Tabernacle was set up in Shiloh, where it would reside for 369 years. 2. It became the spiritual center, and two million Jews gathered at Shiloh on the main festivals and camped on the surrounding hills. 3. At Shiloh, Hannah prayed for a son. God heard her prayers and blessed her with Samuel. 4. To Shiloh, Hannah brought Samuel and consecrated him to the Lord’s service. 5. Samuel was raised in the tabernacle here at Shiloh and became a great prophet whom God greatly used. 6. The ark was taken from here and captured in a battle with the Philistines. As a result, Hophni and Phinehas died along with their father, Eli, near Shiloh. 7. At this site we'll see: A hologram of what the tabernacle was like. Wine and olive presses. Many churches marking this site. A film about this site at the summit of the tel. Four proposed locations of the tabernacle and which site we believe is the best candidate. Red heifers here that fulfill prophecy. Location 1. Shiloh is about 20 miles (32 km) north of Jerusalem on Hwy. 60. 2. It was on a major north-south travel route that linked Beersheba in the south to Shechem and the northern cities of Israel. 3. Shiloh was located on a hilltop, which made it defensible. 4. It had hills surrounding it, so when the nation gathered at Shiloh for feasts, they could camp around it and partake of the events. As a result, archaeologists have found many pieces of pottery on the hills around Shiloh. 5. Tel Shiloh is at an archaeological park called "Ancient Shiloh," located at the entrance to modern-day Shiloh. 6. Shiloh was in the hill country of Samaria within the tribal allotment of Ephraim. 7. It was likely chosen as Israel's capital and military base due to its central location within the country. Historical Background 1. Shiloh was the religious and military capital of Israel during the time of the Judges, and the Tabernacle resided here for 369 years. 2. It was the first place where the tabernacle became a permanent structure. 3. Two million Jews gathered at Shiloh on the main festivals and camped on the surrounding hills. 4. The Ark of the Covenant resided here within the tabernacle. The ark contained the following three items: Tablets of the 10 Commandments. Aaron’s staff that budded. Jar of Manna Places of Interest 1. Vineyards around Shiloh 2. Ancient street of Shiloh. 3. Byzantine churches near the Visitor Center. 4. Wine Press Grapes were crushed by feet to avoid crushing the grape seeds, which would make the wine bitter. Shiloh was famous for its wine, and here is where the Benjaminite men grabbed their wives in the vineyards. Judges 21:19-21: So they said, “Behold, there is the yearly feast of the Lord at Shiloh , which is north of Bethel, on the east of the highway that goes up from Bethel to Shechem, and south of Lebonah.” 20 And they commanded the people of Benjamin, saying, “Go and lie in ambush in the vineyards 21 and watch. If the daughters of Shiloh come out to dance in the dances, then come out of the vineyards and snatch each man his wife from the daughters of Shiloh, and go to the land of Benjamin. 5. Olive Press 6. Water Source Difference between living water and water in cisterns. 7. Building with a hologram of the tabernacle. Courtyard entrance. Bronze altar of burnt offering. Bronze basin (laver) and its stand. Tabernacle tent, containing the Holy Place and Holy of Holies. Inside the Holy Place Lampstand Table of the bread of the Presence Incense Altar Inside the Holy of Holies Ark of the Covenant Inside the Ark of the Covenant Tablets of the 10 Commandments. Aaron’s staff that budded. Jar of Manna 8. Basilica Church (The Basilica Cultural Event Hall) 550 AD Byzantine church. A Danish team in the 1930s added the building over the 6th-century Byzantine church. 9. Byzantine Church The first Byzantine church dates to around 386 AD. This church was likely built over the ruins of an ancient synagogue. On the mosaic floor a t the entrance of this church is an impressive inscription stating: “Lord Jesus Christ, have pity on Shiloh and its inhabitants. Amen.” This is one way we know this place is the authentic Shiloh. Baptistry 10. Byzantine church built over the 4th-century AD ruins. 11. Proposed tabernacle location by Yosef Garfinkel. It was outside the city walls. This fits well because buildings and homes were already inside. It was close to a good water source. Byzantine churches are located here, which were normally built over important sites to commemorate them. Hundreds of thousands of Israelites visited Shiloh during the high holy days. This area is in a large open space outside the city walls that could have handled these massive crowds. 12. Jama'a al-Yatim mosque from around 1250 AD, built on the west side of the northern 4th- and 6th-century Byzantine Church ruins. 13. Four-horned Altar Stone God commanded horns on the tabernacle’s altars according to Exodus 27:1–2. These “horns” were projections rising from the altar's four corners, not actual animal horns. Here we see evidence of a four-horned altar. Another four-horned altar stone has been discovered on the northern slope. 14. Olive Oil Press Olive oil is one of the basic commodities of the ancient world. There were three main presses: Press One: Called "virgin oil." It was used for the tabernacle here in Shiloh. It was used for many of the rituals: lighting the lamps, anointing, mixing with ground grain for the meal offering, and more. Press Two: Used for cooking, food, medicine, and daily household use. Press Three: Used for heating and lighting, making soap, cleansing, and lubrication. 15. Map Pavilion Exodus Route Map We believe the Exodus route went from Egypt to the Aqaba Finger of the Red Sea, where the Israelites crossed into Arabia and Midian. Evidence for this is growing stronger, and most archaeologists and scholars now accept this route. The Bible also tells us its location: Galatians 4:25: Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia ; she corresponds to the present Jerusalem. Tribes of Israel Map The main conquest under Joshua lasted approximately seven years. Half of the tribe of Manasseh, Gad, and Reuben received their allotments on the east side of the Jordan River. The tribe of Dan was relocated to the far north of Israel. Simeon was within Judah and was somewhat absorbed into it. Jerusalem became the center of worship because it was centrally located. In 1399 BC, Joshua gathered the seven tribes that had not yet received their inheritance on the west side of the Jordan River and encouraged them to conquer their inheritances as God commanded. After the division of Israel in 930 BC, because of Solomon's sin of building high places to the gods of his wives, Jeroboam set up two golden-calf altars. One was at Bethel and the other at Dan. The northern part of Israel was called "Israel," and the southern part was called "Judah." The two and one-half tribes on the east side of the Jordan River suffered military attacks. Hazael of Aram conquered large areas east of the Jordan during Jehu's reign (2 Kings 10:32–33). Later, the Assyrians took them into captivity around 733–732 BC. Many people from the northern tribes fled to Jerusalem and built homes on Jerusalem's western side. In 701 BC, King Hezekiah built a large wall to enclose those living outside the walls, called Hezekiah's Broad Wall. He also built a water tunnel to bring water from the Gihon Spring into the city. Today, it's known as Hezekiah's Tunnel. In 722 BC (roughly 200 years after the kingdom was divided), the Assyrians took the northern tribes of Israel into captivity. In 586 BC, the Babylonians conquered Judah and deported many Jews to Babylon (roughly 136 years after the Northern Kingdom was taken into captivity). In 537 BC, Zerubbabel brought many Israelites back to Jerusalem and began building a new temple. In 515 BC, they consecrated the new temple. This begins what is called the Second Temple Period. In 20 BC, Herod the Great began a massive enlargement of the Temple Mount and built a new temple far more glorious than previous ones. In 70 AD, the Romans destroyed Herod's Temple. This ended the Second Temple Period. Travels of the Tabernacle (Tent of Meeting) in the Promised Land 1406 BC ~ Israelites cross into the Promised Land. Tabernacle was set up in Gilgal. 1399 BC ~ Initial conquest is done. The tabernacle was set up in Shiloh. Joshua 18:1: Then the whole congregation of the people of Israel assembled at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there . The land lay subdued before them. 1375 BC ~ The tabernacle resides at Bethel for a period. Judges 20:26-28: Then the Israelites, all the people, went up to Bethel , where they sat weeping before the LORD. That day they fasted until evening and presented burnt offerings and peace offerings to the LORD. 27And the Israelites inquired of the LORD. (In those days the ark of the covenant of God was there, 28and Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, served before it .) 1100 BC ~ Hannah prays in Shiloh, where Eli was the high priest and where the tabernacle resided. 1 Samuel 1:24: And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and she brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh . 1070 BC ~ The Ark of the Covenant and the tabernacle are separated at Shiloh, never to be reunited again. The ark was taken from here and captured in a battle with the Philistines. As a result, Hophni and Phinehas died along with their father, Eli . 1040 BC ~ King Saul likely moved the tabernacle from Shiloh to Gibeon when he became king. Saul was from Gibeon, and during the time of King David and King Solomon, the tabernacle resided at Gibeon, as found in 2 Chronicles 1:3-5. 1000 BC ~ King David brings the Ark of the Covenant to the City of David. He built a special tent over it. However, the tabernacle was at Gibeon, as found in 2 Chronicles 1:3-5. 970 BC ~ The tabernacle resided at Gibeon. 2 Chronicles 1:3-5: And Solomon and the whole assembly went to the high place at Gibeon because it was the location of God’s Tent of Meeting, which Moses the servant of the LORD had made in the wilderness . 966 BC ~ King Solomon brings the Ark of the Covenant up from the City of David and places it in the new temple he built. 966 BC ~ There is no more mention of the tabernacle (Tent of Meeting) after this. It appears it fell into ruins or was dismantled after Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem. Travels of the Ark of the Covenant in the Promised Land 1406 - 1070 BC ~ The Ark accompanies the tabernacle in all its travels until it's separated from it in 1070 BC. Gilgal ~ 1406 BC Shiloh ~ 1399 BC Bethel ~ 1375 BC Shiloh ~ 1100 BC 1070 ~ Ark in Shiloh. Hophni and Phinehas accompanied the Ark to Israel’s camp in a battle with the Philistines. The Philistines captured the Ark in the battle. Eli's two sons were killed, and Eli, the high priest, fell backward and died. 1070 ~ The Ark of the Covenant and the tabernacle were separated at Shiloh after this battle. 1070 ~ Ark in Ashdod: The Philistines placed it in Dagon’s temple. Dagon’s image fell before the Ark; judgment also struck the inhabitants. 1070 ~ Ark in Gath: The Philistines moved the Ark here, but judgment followed, bringing tumors and panic. 1070 ~ Ark in Ekron: Its arrival terrified the people. The Philistine rulers decided to return it to Israel. 1070 ~ The Ark was transported from Ekron to Beth Shemesh: Two cows pulled a new cart carrying the ark into the field of Joshua of Beth-Shemesh during the wheat harvest. After initial rejoicing and sacrifices, judgment struck some inhabitants, and they requested its removal. 1070 ~ The Philistine sequence and the Ark's seven-month total are explicit in 1 Samuel 5–6. 1070 ~ Obed-edom’s house for three months: The ark remained with Obed-edom the Gittite for three months. God blessed his household as a result. 1070 ~ Kiriath-jearim: The Ark would spend around 70 years here. 1000 ~ King David brings the Ark of the Covenant to the City of David. David builds a special tent for the Ark 586 ~ The Babylonians conquer Jerusalem, destroy the temple, and the Ark of the Covenant is lost. 30 AD ~ Time of Jesus: The Ark of the Covenant was not in the temple Herod built. 16. Proposed tabernacle location by Finklestein on top of the tel. This location seems unlikely for the following reasons: Hundreds of thousands of Israelites visited Shiloh during the high holy days (Passover, Pentecost, Feast of Booths), and thousands during regular times. A large open area would have been needed to handle these massive crowds. Therefore, the tabernacle wouldn't have been located inside the city walls, as there would have been no room for them. Evidence that countless Israelites camped outside the city walls has been discovered. It seems most likely the tabernacle was in an open, flat area easily accessible to large crowds, not within the city walls. 17. Visitor Tower Great movie showing Shiloh's history. 18. Proposed tabernacle location proposed by Dr. Scott Stripling. While we have utmost respect for Dr. Stripling, we have questions about this proposed site. Here is our reasoning: The building has massive walls around and inside of it. This seems to contradict Scripture, as the tabernacle was mobile and a tent. In 1000 BC, when David proposed to build a permanent temple for the Lord, God said to him in 2 Samuel 7:6: I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day, but I have been moving about in a tent for my dwelling . This seems to clearly state that God never resided in a fixed building before the permanent temple Solomon built. The tabernacle moved around quite a bit, so its massive block walls seem to contradict Scripture. Following are the travels of the tabernacle after arriving in the Promised Land: Gilgal ~ 1406 BC Shiloh ~ 1399 BC Bethel ~ 1375 BC Shiloh ~ 1100 BC Gibeon ~ 970 BC When the tabernacle was at Gibeon, it seems to still be mobile and in a tent. 2 Chronicles 1:3-5: And Solomon and the whole assembly went to the high place at Gibeon because it was the location of God’s Tent of Meeting, which Moses the servant of the LORD had made in the wilderness . It's on a side hill, which would be difficult for large masses of Israelites to access. It seems most likely the tabernacle was in an open, flat area easily accessible to large crowds. Hundreds of thousands of Israelites visited Shiloh during the high holy days (at least three per year: Passover, Pentecost, Feast of Booths). A large open area would have been needed to handle these massive crowds. Therefore, it seems impractical for the tabernacle to have been located inside the city walls, as there would have been no room for them. Evidence that countless Israelites camped outside the city walls has been discovered. 19. Traditional tabernacle location proposed by Charles Wilson and later supporters. We believe this site is the best candidate for the tabernacle location for the following reasons: In his 1873 report, Wilson described a terrace approximately 412 feet long and 77 feet wide, larger than the level areas he observed on the summit. The courtyard prescribed in Exodus measured approximately 150 × 75 feet, using an 18-inch cubit. The terrace therefore appeared capable of accommodating it. "And you shall make the Tabernacle yard ... 100 cubits in length ... and the width of the yard 50 cubits (Exodus 27:9-13). Wilson observed cut rock faces reaching about five feet high, with small excavations and cisterns along the sides. He suggested that this preparation might have been undertaken for the sanctuary. He also connected it with the rabbinic tradition that Shiloh’s sanctuary had stone walls beneath a tent covering. The rock was also deliberately cut to produce a flat area. Wilson therefore thought: Why would someone create a long level court almost exactly the width required for the Tabernacle? Later advocate Asher Kaufman emphasized that the platform could accommodate a sanctuary with its entrance toward the east and its innermost compartment toward the west, consistent with Exodus. He also argued that surrounding slopes offered natural protection despite the location outside the city’s main enclosure. It was outside the city walls. This fits well because buildings and homes were already inside. Excavators found building walls within that northern terrace, but these seem to have been erected after the tabernacle was relocated to Gibeon. Hundreds of thousands of Israelites visited Shiloh during the high holy days. This area is in a large open space outside the city walls that could have handled these massive crowds. Bone deposit from sacrificed animals found just east of this site. Tabernacle Layout Outside the Tabernacle Courtyard Place where Hannah prayed. Courtyard Bronze altar of burnt offering. Bronze basin (laver) and its stand. Tabernacle containing the Holy Place and Holy of Holies. Inside the Holy Place Lampstand Table of the bread of the Presence Incense Altar Inside the Holy of Holies Ark of the Covenant 20. Cisterns 21. Canaanite Wall 22. Storerooms 23. Red Heifers The red heifers at Shiloh are significant because they are part of preparations to restore the biblical purification ceremony described in Numbers 19. Some people connect those preparations with a future Temple that will be functioning during the Great Tribulation Period. To many, the red heifers indicate that Christ's return is close and the Tribulation Period is just around the corner. In Numbers 19:1–22, God commanded Israel to obtain a red heifer—a female bovine—without defect or blemish, and one on which no yoke had been placed. The ceremony involved: Taking the animal outside the camp and slaughtering it under priestly supervision. Sprinkling some of its blood toward the tent of meeting seven times. Burning it, with cedarwood, hyssop, and scarlet material added to the fire. Preserving its ashes and mixing a portion with fresh water for purification. The Temple Institute regards producing valid red-heifer ashes as an important part of restoring ritual purity. Under its interpretation of Jewish law, the actual ceremony would take place on the Mount of Olives, facing the Temple site in Jerusalem, rather than at Shiloh. According to the traditional Jewish count, nine red heifers were prepared for purification from Moses until the destruction of the Second Temple in AD 70. Shiloh In the Bible 1. During the conquest of the Promised Land (7-year period), the Tabernacle resided principally at Gilgal (Josh. 4:19–24). 2. After the conquest of the land was basically complete, the Tabernacle was set up in Shiloh, where it would reside for 369 years. J oshua 18:1: Then the whole congregation of the people of Israel assembled at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there . The land lay subdued before them. 3. At Shiloh, lots were cast to divide the land among the seven tribes who had not yet received their inheritance on the west side of the Jordan River. Ruben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had already received their portion on the east side of the Jordan, and Judah and Joseph had already received theirs on the west side. Joshua 18:2–3: There remained among the people of Israel seven tribes whose inheritance had not yet been apportioned. 3 So Joshua said to the people of Israel, “How long will you put off going in to take possession of the land, which the Lord, the God of your fathers, has given you? Joshua 18:8–10: So the men arose and went, and Joshua charged those who went to write the description of the land, saying, “Go up and down in the land and write a description and return to me. And I will cast lots for you here before the Lord in Shiloh .” 9 So the men went and passed up and down in the land and wrote in a book a description of it by towns in seven divisions. Then they came to Joshua to the camp at Shiloh , 10 and Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord. And there Joshua apportioned the land to the people of Israel, to each his portion. 4. From Shiloh, Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh departed for their homes east of the Jordan River. Joshua 22:9: So the people of Reuben and the people of Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh returned home, parting from the people of Israel at Shiloh , which is in the land of Canaan, to go to the land of Gilead, their own land of which they had possessed themselves by command of the LORD through Moses. 5. After departing from Shiloh to return home, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar at the Jordan River. The rest of the tribes misunderstood the altar's purpose and met at Shiloh to fight them. Joshua 22:12: And when the people of Israel heard of it, the whole assembly of the people of Israel gathered at Shiloh to make war against them. The 2 ½ tribes intended to erect an altar as a witness to future generations that they were part of the 9 ½ tribes on the west side of the Jordan River. When the 9 ½ tribes understood their purpose, they returned home in peace. 6. During a dark time in the book of Judges, the Benjamite tribe was almost wiped out by the other tribes of Israel because of their severe disobedience to God. To revive Benjamin's population, they provided wives at Shiloh. Judges 21:19–21: So they said, “Behold, there is the yearly feast of the Lord at Shiloh , which is north of Bethel, on the east of the highway that goes up from Bethel to Shechem, and south of Lebonah.” 20 And they commanded the people of Benjamin, saying, “Go and lie in ambush in the vineyards 21 and watch. If the daughters of Shiloh come out to dance in the dances, then come out of the vineyards and snatch each man his wife from the daughters of Shiloh , and go to the land of Benjamin. 7. At Shiloh, Hannah prayed for a son. God heard her prayers and blessed her with Samuel. 1 Samuel 1:3–5: Now this man used to go up year by year from his city to worship and to sacrifice to the Lord of hosts at Shiloh , where the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests of the Lord. 4 On the day when Elkanah sacrificed, he would give portions to Peninnah his wife and to all her sons and daughters. 5 But to Hannah , he gave a double portion, because he loved her, though the Lord had closed her womb. 1 Samuel 1:9–11: After they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh , Hannah rose. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the Lord. 10 She was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. 11 And she vowed a vow and said, “O Lord of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head.” 8. To Shiloh, Hannah brought Samuel and consecrated him to the Lord’s service. 1 Samuel 1:24–28: And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and she brought him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh . And the child was young. 25 Then they slaughtered the bull, and they brought the child to Eli. 26 And she said, “Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the Lord. 27 For this child, I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition that I made to him. 28 Therefore I have lent him to the Lord. As long as he lives, he is lent to the Lord.” And he worshiped the Lord there. 9. Eli and his wicked sons presided over the Tabernacle at Shiloh. Then, through the prophet Samuel, the Lord announced the doom of their house. 1 Samuel 3:11–13: Then the Lord said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle. 12 On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. 3 And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them. 10. The ark was captured in a battle with the Philistines. As a result, Hophni and Phinehas died along with their father, Eli, near Shiloh. 1 Samuel 4:16–18: And the man said to Eli, “I am he who has come from the battle; I fled from the battle today.” And he said, “How did it go, my son?” 17 He who brought the news answered and said, “Israel has fled before the Philistines, and there has also been a great defeat among the people. Your two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God has been captured.” 18 As soon as he mentioned the ark of God, Eli fell over backward from his seat by the side of the gate, and his neck was broken and he died, for the man was old and heavy. He had judged Israel forty years. 11. The Ark of the Covenant was returned to Beth Shemesh by the Philistines and wound up staying at the house of Abinadab for 20 years (1 Sam. 7:1). 12. Eventually, King David would take the ark to the City of David (1 Chron. 13, 15), and then it would be moved to the temple Solomon built (2 Chron. 5:2). The tabernacle was taken to Gibeon (1 Chron. 21:29) but didn’t have the ark in it. After the temple was instituted, the Tabernacle at Gibeon went by the wayside. 13. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Jeroboam, King of the Northern Tribes, erected golden calf altars in Bethel and Dan for the worship of false gods. Over time, Shiloh fell into ruin and came under God's judgment. Psalm 78:59–61: When God heard, he was full of wrath, and he utterly rejected Israel. He forsook his dwelling at Shiloh , the tent where he dwelt among mankind, and delivered his power to captivity, his glory to the hand of the foe. Jeremiah 7:12: Go now to my place that was in Shiloh , where I made my name dwell at first, and see what I did to it because of the evil of my people Israel. Faith Lesson from Shiloh 1. Shiloh was a place of rich blessing and rejoicing when the Israelites obeyed God. Do we understand that obeying and serving God brings life and fulfills our souls? 2. God judged Shiloh because of Eli and his sons' sins. What kind of leaders are we, and do we realize how our leadership affects our families and ministries? 3. Eli was the same father who raised his own sons as well as Samuel. Regardless of our past, baggage, and problems, God's grace is enough to give us victory over our past. What about us? Do we have victory over our past, or do we use our past as an excuse for our problems? 3. Hannah prayed for a child at Shiloh, and God heard her. Like Hannah, do we pray for our needs, and do we pray with the right motives? 4. Shiloh was also a place of deep disaster with a bitter ending. It ended in judgment because of the continual sin of God’s people. Do we realize the danger of allowing sin in our lives and the consequences it can bring?

Orientation help for groups traveling to Israel. What to expect, packing list, group travel dynamics, seeing the holy sites, and more. Holy Land Travel Orientation Holy Land Travel Orientation Please understand that much of what there is to see in the Holy Land is hidden from many who walk her paths. They are unseen spiritual truths, revealed only to the sensitive and spiritually inclined heart. This page is desig ned to help you get the most out of your pilgrimage in the Holy Land. The following are nine orientation se ctions we highly recommend you acquaint yourself with before departing on your Holy Land Trip to Israel: Sectio n 1: Historical Periods in Israel's History Section 2: Preparing Yourself to See the Holy Sites in Israel Section 3: How to Get the Most Out of Your Holy Land Trip Section 4 : Understanding Group Travel Dynamics Section 5: Travel Tips for Israel Section 6 : Packing List Section 7: Staying Connected While In Israel Section 8: Getting Around In Israel for Personal Use Sec tion 9 : Orientation Meeting In Israel Helpful Airport Orientation Videos Below are two helpful videos that show exactly what to expect and the process you'll need to follow for arriving and departing Ben Gurion Airport in Israel. In the arrival video, you'll see: Where to get your B2 Stay Permit. Going through the Passport checkpoint area. Proceeding to the baggage claim area. Going through customs with luggage. Exiting the airport. Getting a taxi. In the departure video, you'll see: Security checkpoints. Luggage check-in. Terminal layout, and more. Anchor 1 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 1 Historical Periods in Israel’s History Why is it essential to understand a brief overview of the historical periods of Israel? The Holy Land is an ancient place, one of the oldest in the world. While in the Holy Land, you’ll be seeing things as old as 6,000 years. That’s old! Different periods of history will be referred to when describing Israel’s holy sites and places. Please note that at a particular site, several key events are likely to have occurred. Each event will have happened during a specific period in Israel’s history. If you can understand the different periods a little, you’ll get much more out of your experience. Please click here for the Historical Timeline of Israel Anchor 2 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 2 Preparing Yourself to See the Holy Sites in Israel The Need to Understand What You’re Going to See It would be wonderful if the Holy Land were exactly the same as it was 2,000 years ago when Christ walked its paths, or 4,000 years ago when Abraham traversed its hillsides and valleys. However, 4,000 years is a long time, and many changes have occurred during this span. It’s hard for us to understand, but 4,000 or even 2,000 years is a long time! Because of its strategic location in the world, no other country has had as many kingdoms occupy it, or as many battles fought on its soil, as Israel. This, along with time, has led to many changes in Israel and its holy sites. The good news is that many of the biblical sites are in their natural state and appear much the same as they did when the events that occurred there took place. Other sites have had monuments, churches, or basilicas built near or on them, and are not exactly as they appeared when the events that occurred there happened, but mark the spot where they did happen. Understanding What Some of The Holy Sites Will Be Like Many of these monuments, churches, or basilicas will have a distinctly Catholic, Arabic, or Middle Eastern style. They’re very different from what we’re accustomed to seeing, and at first glance, you might find this unattractive. You also might disagree with the religious backgrounds of some of these sites and feel somewhat uncomfortable as well. In addition, you most likely will find other people visiting the Holy Land from different countries who are actually worshipping and kissing some of the adornments on these sites. On a previous trip to Israel, some members of our group found this aspect somewhat repulsive and chose not to enter specific holy sites. Because of these possible adverse reactions, we would like to provide you with a bit of background and history about how these sacred sites have been preserved so your sightseeing experience can be the best as possible during your time in the Holy Land. A Little History Even before the time of Christ and afterward, many of the holy sites were marked out and preserved. Then, about 300 years after the time of Christ, the Roman Empire (world power at that time) embraced Christianity. At that time, the mother of Emperor Constantine (Helena) was one of the first members of the royal family to convert to Christianity. Later, Emperor Constantine also did so. Helena came to the Holy Land and wanted to preserve some of the holy sites, so she had churches, monuments, and basilicas built over some of the key holy places. These included the Church of the Holy Sepulture, Church of the Nativity, Basilica in the Garden of Gethsemane, Church of the Annunciation, and others. Helena and others throughout history felt such emotion and awe at these holy sites that they wanted to honor and preserve them for future generations. The Early Church was the first to oversee these sites during this period. As the Early Church gradually evolved into what we now know as the Catholic Church, many of these holy sites came under its care. The monuments, churches, and basilicas were not always Catholic in nature, so we shouldn’t assume that they shared the same religious views at their inception. There were others as well that came to the Holy Land to build churches, monuments, and basilicas on these holy sites (Armenians, Russians, Greeks, etc.). Their hearts felt the same awe and emotion as others who came, so they, too, built on or by these holy sites to honor and preserve them. Some of these holy sites are ancient (from as old as 5,000 years), and the churches have a Middle Eastern style look. Gratefulness to Those Who Preserved the Holy Sites If it hadn't been for those who preserved the biblical sites, they would have been lost or had other buildings, roads, and infrastructure built over them. They would have been lost to the world forever. These early pilgrims felt the same awe and emotion you will feel. We certainly can’t fault them for this. Due to the numerous adornments and constructions over the centuries, it's challenging to envision how some of these sites would have appeared in their original setting. However, the years of activity and tradition at these holy sites give greater weight to their authenticity. And while we might disagree with the decorations and atmosphere of these places, we should appreciate and admire all the devotion and sacrifice made to preserve them. Some Might Find These Churches, Monuments, and Basilicas Repulsive Part of the reason some might find the places they see in Israel repulsive will have to do with a difference in religious faith. Another reason is due to a misunderstanding of style. These holy sites have a very different style than what we’re accustomed to in modern churches. Closing Thoughts 1. Entering these churches, monuments, and basilicas to see these holy sites doesn’t mean we’re in any way embracing and accepting their religious beliefs. 2. While the style, religious background, and adornments might not be to our taste, the motives of those who preserved these sites seem to be noble and honorable. As you see these sites, you will understand why these early pilgrims wanted to preserve them. 3. It’s important to note that we, from a modern mindset, have different views and tastes regarding building styles. Because to us, something 200-400 years old might seem really ancient, we need to realize that seeing something 1,500 years old has an entirely different architectural look and sense to it than what we’re accustomed to seeing. Hopefully, this info is helpful. As mentioned, on a previous trip to Israel, some individuals didn’t fully understand these concepts beforehand, and it took them a bit to grasp them. It was a self-discovery process. For this reason, this orientation and background are provided so you can get the most out of your Holy Land Experience Trip and not get bogged down in this area. Anchor 3 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 3 How to Get the Most Out of Your Holy Land Trip How to See What Many Don’t See in the Holy Land Understand that half of what there is to see in the Holy Land is hidden from most who walk her paths. They are unseen spiritual truths, only revealed to the sensitive and spiritual of heart. Try to get as close to God as you can prior to and during your time in the Holy Land, so you can see and hear things that many don’t see during their visit there. The Holy Land is not just places and historical artifacts; it’s an experience, an experience that is spiritual in nature and eye-opening for those who can see in this realm. You Won’t Be Able to See Everything It would be great to see every detail at every holy site, but that would take months, if not years, to do. It’s important to understand that there is a lot to see and, therefore, just the highlights can be seen. You’ll be eating the frosting off the cake and won’t be able to eat the whole thing. As a result, please don’t be discouraged if you can’t spend as much time in each place as you’d wish. You’ll have to move along to see just the highlights, and if you stay too long at one place, that means you’ll be saying “No” to another. Your Trip Won’t be Perfect It would be fantastic if you could be guaranteed a perfect trip with a perfect experience, but that’s just not reality. Going to the Holy Land is undoubtedly the closest you’ll get to the “Trip of a Lifetime,” but please don’t get your hopes up so high that you’re let down and feel discouraged if it doesn’t turn out as you dreamed. Your trip won’t be perfect. Your leader and the rest of your group will probably not live up to your expectations either. The only perfect person on the trip will be you (well, maybe not exactly perfect, but pretty close to it, lol). So just prepare yourself to understand that things just aren’t going to be flawless. Trust God for Your Experience It’s also easy to have preconceived ideas of what to expect: the emotions you’re going to feel, the dreams you might have of the Holy Land, and the experience you want to have. Please try to set some of these aside and trust God to give you the experience He has for you. Don’t get everything built up so high that it would be impossible to fulfill them. Trust God to bless you and teach you what He has for you. He’s the One who’s worked everything out for you to go, and I’m certain He has special things to teach you. Trust in Him and be looking for what He has for you. And after everything is said and done, be content with what He gives you. It’s His trip, and you need to be happy with the outcome, whatever it may be. Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 4 Understanding Group Travel Dynamics Traveling with Others Part of the joy and richness of your Holy Land Experience will come from sharing it with others. Going somewhere alone is never as much fun as doing it with someone else. The impact and fullness of the experience will come alive as it’s experienced as a group rather than as an individual or couple. For this reason, you’ll want to consider a few things to make your Holy Land Experience as good as possible. Try to Think as a Group and Not as an Individual Traveling as a group is very different from traveling as an individual or couple. There will be other team members in your group, and each person needs to realize they’re part of a larger event than just themselves. The entire team will depend on one another to be punctual, courteous, thoughtful, and pleasant. Try to take into consideration that what you do affects everyone else on the team. Try to Keep Up with the Group It will be important that you keep up with the group and not linger too long seeing things during your travels. Because you’ll be seeing some really interesting things, it will be easy to get lost in these and forget that there are other things to see as well. Pleas e Be Punctual Everything from wake-up times, mealtimes, arrival times, departure times, and the sightseeing schedule for each day needs to be considered. Because you are spending a significant amount of money and taking precious time out of your busy life to experience the Holy Land, you’ll want to be as punctual as possible so that you and your team can see everything as planned. Your group can only be as fast as the slowest person, so try to be punctual and thoughtful of others. If you tend to be a late person, consider getting a head start on things by starting earlier than usual so you can be on time. Please Be Patient & Courteous Be aware that sometime during the trip, you’ll likely feel tired, a bit irritated with others, or upset at something that’s happened. Do your best to overlook the faults of others and try to keep yourself in check. Also, realize that we have an enemy who will do his best to take away from our experience by using others or problems. Be alert and prayerful! Keep yourself close to God and do your best to love others, and take everything in stride. Try to Be Rested Up Before Your Holy Land Trip Because you’re going to be expending a lot of energy during the trip, try to get as rested as possible before departure. To illustrate this point, we’ll use the term “gauges” to help clarify our discussion. We all know that most of our vehicles have gauges, such as a gas gauge, a temperature gauge, and an oil gauge. Using this analogy for our bodies, we also have bodily gauges. We have physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual gauges. Before your trip, try to get your bodily gauges as full as possible. By doing so, you’ll get more out of your trip and be more joyful and patient with others. Here are a few tips for filling up your bodily gauges before trip departure: Try to scale down on your activities and output before the trip. For example, cut back on meetings, outings, get-togethers, and social events. Get plenty of sleep. Get plenty of exercise (you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking, so try to get in walking shape before the trip). Get as many of your responsibilities and commitments done ahead of time, and don’t wait until the last minute to take care of things. There will be plenty of last-minute things to do, so don’t add to them by procrastinating. Try to get packed and ready at your earliest convenience. If you need to shop for trip items, try to do so plenty of time in advance. By doing the following, you’ll start your trip with your bodily gauges full and not empty. And when you think about it, who would start a long journey with their car having an empty gas tank and little or no oil in the engine? Anchor 4 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 5 Travel Tips for Israel 1. Get in shape physically before you go to Israel. You will be doing a lot of walking, so the better shape you’re in, the easier and more pleasant your time will be. Several months before your trip, start walking for at least 15-30 minutes a day. 2. Activate your credit/debit cards before departure to Israel. 3. Make sure your Passport is up to date and valid. It must have at least 6 months remaining before expiration (of your dates in Israel) to be valid. 4. Don’t shave your body before taking a dip in the Dead Sea. The salt and minerals will irritate your skin. 5. Don’t show public display of affection with the opposite sex, especially on the Temple Mount and Muslim sites. 6. Don’t be afraid to bargain for purchases at marketplaces. It’s expected, so take part in it. 7. Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated. 8. Pack layered types of clothing instead of heavy clothes. 9. Carry your personal items in a safe place on your person. 10. Take a good camera or video camera. 11. Please understand that smoking cigarettes is common in Israel and the Middle East. 12. Many Israelis are not religious, but secular. This might seem weird, but it’s true. 13. Carry a copy of your passport and driver's license with you. 14. Women should dress very modestly, especially when visiting holy sites. Ladies should bring a large scarf or shawl to cover themselves when necessary. 15. Men should wear hats when visiting Jewish holy sites. 16. Men should not wear hats when visiting Christian holy sites. 17. Men should not wear shorts or tank tops when visiting holy sites like churches, Temple Mount, etc. Anchor 5 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 6 Packing List General Items Travel Bible or smartphone with Bible app Journal and pen for taking notes Plug adapter for plugging devices into the outlets in Israel. Click here for purchase options Note: The outlets in Israel are different from the States. You’ll need this adapter for plugging things in to be charged, etc. Also, electricity in Israel is 220 volts. In America, it’s 110 volts. Many electronic devices today can adapt to both voltages, such as smartphones, tablets, etc. If this is all you'll be charging, then a plug-in like this is all you'll need. Lightweight Portable Chair. Click here for purchase options Note: Chairs are optional, but you might find them handy for our Bible teachings. Charger converter needed for Israel (Needed for charging cameras, etc.). Click here for purchase options Note: Electricity in Israel is 220 volts. In America, it’s 110 volts. Many electronic devices today can adapt to both voltages. If you plan to take an item that cannot use 220 volts, the link above is a converter you’ll need. Travel alarm or smartphone that has this capability Flashlight (mini) or smartphone that has this capability Camera or smartphone that has this capability Film or Storage Disks for your camera (bring plenty, because it's much more expensive in Israel) Many people find it helpful to take Ziplock baggies or small plastic containers to put their lunches in. Your own personal earbuds for the wireless headsets we will be loaning you in Israel. We will provide you with some, but you might want a higher-quality pair. Clothes Weather In Israel During Your Visit Sea of Galilee & Jordan Valley Sites Daytime highs: 85-95°F, 30-35 °C. Nighttime lows: 65-75°F, 18-24 ° C Jerusalem Area Sites Daytime highs: 75-85°F, 24-30 ° C. Nighttime lows: 60-70 °F, 15-21 ° C Dressing in layers is best when considering your clothes. It rarely ever rains during the time of year we visit Israel. Usually, it's warm and pleasant. Special clothing requirements apply when visiting sites such as the Temple Mount, many churches, and other religious sites. Ladies: Please bring a large scarf or shawl to cover yourself when visiting these religious sites. You must also dress modestly, ensuring that your knees and shoulders are covered. Men: You will not be able to enter many religious sites if you are wearing shorts or tank tops. Therefore, we recommend avoiding these items during the day. However, they can generally be worn during your free time in the evenings if desired. General Clothing Swimsuit, beach shoes, and a plastic bag for the Dead Sea experience, if you want to get in the water Light jacket Sturdy walking shoes with traction for the many stone paths and roads you’ll traverse. FYI ~ Many of the streets are paved with stone, so it's challenging to wear shoes with awkward heels/soles on uneven pavement. Sleepwear Hat for sun protection purposes Day Pack/Back Pack (can be used as a carry-on and for travel in Israel) Ziplock bags for lunches and items you might find while in Israel. Umbrella - Small, collapsible type Sunglasses Other Clothing and Shoes Baptismal Site of Jesus Everyone is welcome to get baptized, regardless of whether you've already been baptized. Many folks do it just for the experience of being baptized in the same place Jesus was. If you plan to get baptized, please bring some baptismal attire (regular swimwear or casual clothes are acceptable). You may also want to bring some sandals or shoes for the water. The baptismal site has wooden steps that lead into the water, so there's very little walking you'll do in it. The water will be cool but not cold. It should be quite warm, so you'll dry off fast and warm up quickly if you get a little cold. Also, bring a small towel or something to dry off with afterward. Hezekiah's Water Tunnel If you plan to walk through Hezekiah's water tunnel in the City of David, it is recommended that you wear shoes of some kind. The ground is somewhat rough, so you'll definitely need some foot protection. Washing Clothes in Israel Every hotel we use in Israel offers laundry service. However, most people simply wash their clothes in the sink or shower and hang them up to dry. Toiletries In Israel, most products are available. However, prices in Israel tend to be higher. The following are some reminders of items you might want to take: Shampoo/Conditioner Soap Toothbrush Toothpaste Deodorant Lip balm Razor After-shave Band-Aids Feminine items Sunscreen Tylenol/ Ibuprofen Eyeglasses/ contact lenses Any prescription medicine Money We recommend bringing approximately $300 USD for emergency use, if needed. A credit card is the best way to pay for things in Israel, as it offers the best exchange rate. However, some local vendors will not accept credit cards, so Shekels are best for that (US Dollars are also accepted by local vendors selling to tourists). Shekels can be drawn out from most ATMs in Israel. Therefore, there is no need to go to your bank to get them ahead of time. At our first hotel in Tel Aviv, an ATM is conveniently located nearby. Food & Lunches The day of arrival in Israel (unless you arrive earlier) will be a Sabbath evening . This means all Jewish stores, restaurants, and so forth will close early (usually starting around 3:00 pm). This can present challenges for eating and preparing lunch for the next day. If you arrive after 3:00 pm, you can have dinner at the hotel or buy something ahead of time. Some places will be open, but very few. For the next day's sack lunch, you can either buy something ahead of time or take extra items from the breakfast buffet at the hotel (the hotel staff seems okay with this). Breakfast - The hotels will provide breakfast if desired. Some will provide dinners as well. These can be paid for when you book your lodging or at the hotels. It's ideal to eat breakfast at the hotels as it's handy. However, you can eat your breakfast at a local restaurant or prepare it yourself. Lunch - Since eating out is expensive in Israel, time-consuming with a large group, and we will not always be close to a restaurant, each trip participant will prepare their own daily sack lunch. Each day around noon, we will take a break to eat, or you can eat and snack at your leisure. Lunch items can be purchased at local grocery stores, or additional items from the breakfast buffets at the hotels can be taken (the hotels seem to be okay with this). The hotels will have in-room refrigerators if needed. Dinner – On your own. Enjoy the local culture by dining at local restaurants or at the hotel, if you prefer. Note: Many people find it helpful to pack their lunches in Ziploc baggies or small plastic containers. Luggage Size & Amount We don't have a specific luggage size and number allowance per person, but we suggest not exceeding 40-50 lbs (18-22 kg) per piece of luggage, as it makes handling easier. The lighter, the better. You will be responsible for handling your luggage during the trip, so please pack only what you can comfortably lift. Documents & Items to Carry with You at all Times There are several options for carrying your money and important documents on your trip. You can use a money belt (waist-style or necklace-style) or pockets on your pants or shirt that can be buttoned and secured. Passport ~ Must not expire until 6 months after your trip. Copy of your Passport Driver's License Copy of your ETA-IL Electronic Document Printed copies or screenshots of your payment receipts for our trip to Israel, in case you are interviewed by Israeli security at the airports (for security purposes, Israel often interviews travelers at incoming and outgoing airports) Credit/Debit Card (make sure to activate your cards for Israel or international travel) Note: It’s a good idea to activate your debit card so you can withdraw shekels to spend in Israel. Electronic Travel Document for Entry into Israel (ETA-IL) Travelers from visa-exempt countries (meaning they don't need to obtain a visa before arrival in Israel, but instead receive one upon landing) must obtain an ETA-IL before their planned travel to Israel. 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? Obtaining an ETA-IL allows you to travel to Israel as a tourist and stay for up to 90 days. Your ETA-IL authorization is generally valid for multiple trips for up to two years from the date your application is approved, 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? The application is made online through the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority website. Here's the link: ETA-IL (piba.gov.il) When to Apply? Please do so no later than two weeks before the departure date of the Israel trip. However, it can be done sooner if you'd like. B2 Stay Permit This permit is issued upon arrival at the airport. Self-service kiosks are available, where you can scan your passport, and a printed permit will be issued. It's essential to keep this permit safe, as you will be required to present it multiple times during your stay. For convenience, you may place it inside your passport. Visas Israel does not require visas from almost all countries to enter the country. However, if you are from a country that requires a visa for entry into Israel, you will need to check and verify this in advance. Anchor 6 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 7 Internet Options While in Israel Here are some options to consider: 1. In many cases, you can use your phone in Israel if you add an international plan with your cell provider. 2. You can purchase an Israeli SIM card. A physical SIM card can be mailed to your home before departure for Israel and activated upon arrival (I believe these are only available to those in the United States and Canada; you can call to confirm). A SIM card service we use is TalknSave . 3. If your phone has the capability, an eSIM card (requires no physical SIM card and is all digital) can be purchased on the Internet and activated anywhere in the world. This is the best option if your phone supports it. A great option for this is IsraelieSIM - Israel's fastest cellular network | Pelephone . 4. You can purchase a SIM card at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival. Here are some links for this option: Buying a SIM Card at Tel Aviv Airport - Traveltomtom.net Israeli SIM cards | SimToIsrael | Tour Israel Jerusalem Tel-Aviv 5. Free Internet is provided in all hotels and on the tour bus. Anchor 7 Anchor 8 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 8 Getting Around In Israel for Personal Use Public Bus Company - Egged Where will you find Egged buses? Almost everywhere. Egged is the biggest bus company in Israel. They usually operate as intercity buses, except for some cases in Northern Israel. Egged is also the main player in most Israeli cities, except for the Tel Aviv area. Their buses are completely green. Lately, they’ve also added a fleet of greyish buses. Useful Travel Apps Google Maps - This is our favorite. It has great maps in English, and you can use it to see exactly where you need to go. It also shows the live bus arrival times. Taxis Only use recognized, marked taxis in Israel. Sometimes, private people will act like a taxi service, but they are not. This can be risky. The taxis are easily recognizable with their distinct black and yellow taxi sign on their rooftops. Taxis operate 24/7. The taxi fare you will pay to whichever city in Israel you are traveling to has a legally fixed price. This will depend on the time of the day that you are traveling (after 9.15 pm, there is a surcharge of +25%). There will also be an extra charge for more than two passengers, and if you have a large amount of luggage, you may have to pay another 5-10 NIS. Taxi drivers also charge an extra 5 NIS when leaving the airport. Catching a Taxi from the Street It is still common practice to hail a taxi on the streets in Israel. There are two ways to set the price: 1. Ask the driver to turn on the meter. This is a good way to ensure you do not get overcharged. The meter will begin at a standard minimum charge and then go up from there. Drivers are also required to present you with a receipt at the end of the journey, should you ask for one. 2. Negotiate a fee with the driver before you get into the taxi. Make sure you agree on a fair price for both of you so there are no nasty surprises when you arrive at your destination. Taxi Apps In Israel Booking a taxi using an app on your smartphone is increasingly popular now. Following are several options. Yango Taxi Israel - This is an app where you can set your destination and see the estimated cost of your ride almost immediately. You can also track your ride in the App and see exactly when it will arrive. It’s an easy-to-use service that works both on Android and iOS telephones. Yango lets you book a ride with multiple destinations and can also suggest alternative pickup points to reach your destination faster and at a cheaper price. Because the price is upfront, it will stay the same, even if you are delayed by traffic. Gett - About 8,000 of Israel's 25,000 cab drivers now use Gett, an Israeli company once known as Gett Taxi. Gett Taxi app in Israel does not actually own taxis or employ drivers but simply takes a fee for introducing passengers and drivers and acting as a third party for payments. Like Yango, the system is transparent, so passengers can’t be overcharged. Also, it’s easy to pay by credit card. Uber - Uber is smaller than Yango or Gett, so response times might be a bit longer. Ordering an Uber driver costs 8 NIS from the time you get in the car, then 1 NIS for every minute you spend in it, plus 2 NIS for every kilometer. The hotels can also order you taxis if needed. Light Rail System This is a great way to travel while in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. Transportation on the Sabbath Starting Friday afternoon (around 3:00pm) all public transportation in Israel will begin shutting down and won't resume until Saturday evening around 7:00 pm. Getting around during this time is limited to walking, or taxis. Taxis operate 24/7. Anchor 9 Holy Land Travel Orientation Section 9 Orientation Meeting in Israel Some might say that the ideal way to see and experience the Holy Land would entail being transported around in a bubble. No walking, getting tired, struggling with other people, getting too hot, cold, and so forth. However, this would in reality remove much of the experience. Walking, getting tired, and all the difficulties are part of the experience. In fact, it helps us to understand how those in the Bible lived. Even Jesus got tired and stopped at Jacob's Well to rest. Our desire is that you would have the best experience possible during your dream trip in the Holy Land. Our orientation meeting is designed to help meet this goal. We Admire You You have made many sacrifices to make this trip a reality. You have done this because you love the Lord and want to know Him and all He did in the Holy Land. Our prayer is that God will be our teacher and minister to our hearts and souls in a mighty way during our time here. Get Acquainted Time We'll begin our orientation meeting in Israel by getting acquainted. Each person is welcome to state their name and where they're from. Name Tags Each person will receive a nametag that can be worn around the neck. Please wear it every day. This way, we can identify those in our group, and you won't get mixed up with other tour groups . Device Equipment Package At our get-acquainted and orientation meeting in Israel, we will provide you with a package containing several items. Wireless audio receiver. Neck strap for wireless receiver. Receiver charger cable. Audio earpiece with cable to connect to the wireless receiver. Nametag Nametag neck strap, or clip. Charger for charging the audio receiver in Israel. The wireless receiver will allow you to hear your tour guide, Dr. Todd Fink, at all times during the tour, which will be very helpful. At the orientation meeting, we'll show you how to use them. They're simple to operate. It will be your responsibility to keep them charged. You can do this each evening so that they will be ready the next day. If you have any issues with them during the tour, we will be happy to help you. At the end of the tour, we will need all the loaned equipment returned, except your nametag and holder. They're yours to keep. Please return your equipment in the original plastic ziplock bag in which it was received. Thank you. Lunches Since eating out is expensive and time-consuming in Israel, and we won't always be close to a restaurant, each person will need to prepare their own daily sack lunch. You can eat on the tour bus as we travel between sites. In Jerusalem, when we're not on the tour bus, we'll stop around noon to eat. Lunch items can be purchased at local grocery stores, or extra items and leftovers from the breakfast buffets at the hotels can be taken. The hotels will have refrigerators in the rooms if needed. Stay Hyd rat ed Water is the best way to stay hydra ted. Soda and most other drinks do not hydrate you; instead, they cause you to go to the bathroom more frequently. Many bathroom stops can significantly slow down our tour schedule. So, it's essential to stay hydrated with the best means possible, which is water. Bottled Water on the Tour Bus Bottled water is available on the tour bus for $1.00 USD per bottle. It is located at the front of the bus. Visiting the Tour Sites 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. When touring the sites, we will take our time and walk at a leisurely pace, stopping along the way to explore and discuss the points of interest. We'll then find a quiet spot to reflect on the main events from the Bible that took place there and conclude with a faith lesson to learn the key truths God desires to teach us. Afterward, you'll have approximately 20 minutes to use the restroom and purchase souvenirs if desired. We'll tell you what time the tour bus will be departing. Dress Attire at the Tour Sites When visiting churches, synagogues, Muslim sites, and the Temple Mount, please dress modestly. Ladies can take a light shawl if needed. Long capris for ladies are acceptable. Everyone should be covered well below their knees. Bathroom Breaks You will have plenty of opportunities to use the bathrooms, but we will not be able to stop every time someone needs to use a bathroom. Stopping all the time can significantly slow down our trip and possibly cause us to miss some sites due to time constraints. As mentioned above, stay hydrated, but avoid drinking excessive fluids to prevent frequent trips to the bathroom. Also, it is easy to leave some folks behind in the bathrooms when touring the sites. If you don't have a travel companion, it would be helpful to find one and use the buddy system so you are not left behind. No Bathrooms on Tour Buses in Israel Israel doesn't allow any bathrooms on any buses in Israel. This is to prevent the discharge of sewage into unauthorized areas. Therefore, you will not have access to bathrooms on our tour bus. Video Filming As most of you are aware, we have a large YouTube Channel where we publish videos of the Bible in the Holy Land. In fact, most of you found this Israel tour trip through these videos. We will have our cameras rolling most of the time to gather more material for future videos. We are grateful for your understanding and consideration of this ministry to the Lord. We hope you will continue with everything as usual and consider it a blessing to be used by the Lord through these videos. Also, as w e tour the sites, please feel free to video, take photos, and so forth of our talks and teachings for your own use as well. We'll try to move slowly through the sites so you'll have plenty of time to capture your memories. Understanding Some of the Sites Some of you might not agree with the religious background of some of the churches we enter. Please understand that simply entering a church doesn't mean we are endorsing or agreeing with its views. These churches have preserved these sites over the years, allowing them to be seen today. We Won't Be Able to Wait in Long Lines at Some Sites The Church of the Nativity sometimes has long lines to enter the grotto area where Jesus was born. The wait can be several hours. If there is a long line, we'll still be able to see everything else in the church, just not the grotto. We'll see the grotto from the outside and look down into it, but not enter it. This is similar to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. To enter the tomb where Jesus was buried, one often encounters long lines as well. We'll still see everything else in the church, just not enter the tomb. We'll see the tomb from the outside and take a look inside, but not enter it. As mentioned, visiting the grotto of the Church of the Nativity and the tomb at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre can take several hours. If they are truly important to you, you will need to make arrangements to see them on your own. If we waited in the long lines, we would have to eliminate other sites on the tour schedule. Pass Along Directions While in crowded areas, please pass along turn directions so those behind you know where to go. Fro nt Seats on the Tour Bus Please save the first two rows of seats on the bus for Holy Land Site staff. We'll need space for camera equipment and other items. Thank you for your understanding. Tour Bus Departu re & Arrival Times From the Hotels We will meet in the main hotel lobby each day at 7:15 a.m. Then, we will leave the lobby promptly at 7:30 a.m. to board the tour bus. Unfortunately, we will not be able to search for late people, so it will be each person's responsibility to be on time. We have a schedule, and the bus will depart promptly at the indicated times . Thank you for your understanding. Return Time to Hotels Our goal is to return to the hotel we're staying at each day by 5:00 p.m. This will give you plenty of free time in the evenings to do as you please . Hotel Transfer Days When we change hotels, please prepare all your luggage for transportation. Please give yourself extra time to have your luggage with you when we depart the hotel lobby at 7:30 a.m. We suggest packing your luggage and getting everything ready the night before, so you're all ready for the next day. Also, check your rooms carefully when transferring to a new hotel. If you leave something behind, the tour bus won't be able to return to get it. We're sorry, but you'll have to make your own plans for this. When loading the tour bus with your luggage, anything for the day that you don't need should be stowed in the luggage department under the bus. Anything you need for the day for touring the sites, etc., you can take on the bus with you and stow above or under your seats. We Will Be Treating You As Responsible Adults Everyone will be responsible for being on time and ready to leave the hotels and sites we visit. We won't be able to search for you to make sure you're on the bus or ready to go at departure times. Again, we have a schedule, and the bus will depart promptly at the indicated times. Thanks again for your understanding. If You Miss the Tour Bus If, for any reason, you miss the tour bus, you will need to take a taxi to the next stop on the tour, where we will be. Our itinerary can be found on our website. Please Be Punc tual Your experience, along with everyone else in the group, will be so much better if each person is punctual. Our group can only be as fast as the slowest person, so try to be punctual and thoughtful of others. If you tend to be late, consider getting a head start on things by starting earlier than usual so you can be on time. Tour Trip Itinera ry If you don't have Internet service when you're away from your hotel, it would be wise to download the tour trip webpage to see the itinerary in case you are late and miss the tour bus. Digital Maps of Daily Trip Itinerary On the website trip itinerary, you will find a link to a Google Map Directory of the route and sites we'll visit each day at the bottom of each day's itinerary. Souvenirs & Purchases We will be somewhat limited as to how long we can shop for souvenirs. There is always a tension between shopping and seeing sites. If too much time is spent shopping, we might have to eliminate visiting a site from that day's agenda. During your free time (especially in Jerusalem), you can shop till you drop, so you might want to save your heavy shopping until these times. If you do see something at a site you must have, please make your purchases quickly so we can move along and see all the sites on the agenda for that day. At the end of each tour site, we will tell you what time the bus will depart. If you miss the bus, you'll need to get a taxi to our next stop. Unfortunately, we cannot search for each person who is late, so it's your responsibility to be on time. In Israel, everyone would like to sell you something. We can't stop the tour if you want to make a purchase. If you do make a purchase, you will need to find a way to catch up with the rest of the group. This is especially challenging while in Old City Jerusalem. Almost every vendor will try to stop you. Just smile and walk on. Please don't start talking to them, or you'll get left behind. They are professionals at starting a conversation with you to get you inside their stores. You will have plenty of free time to purchase items in Old City Jerusalem after each tour day ends. We do not endorse or promote any vendor attempting to sell you souvenirs. Sometimes they might use our name to earn your confidence. Some might even show up at the hotels attempting to sell you items. You are welcome to buy things from them if you wish, but just know we are not promoting or behind this in any way. Internet Service While In Israel If you don't have Internet access through your phone service, free Wi-Fi is provided at each hotel where we will be staying. The tour bus also has free Internet service. Touring In Jerusalem This will be slightly different than most places as we'll be on foot often. Be sure to stay with the group. We will use bathrooms along the way as needed. Please don't wander off, or you might get separated from the group. Volunteers to Carry Our Tour Group Flag In many cases, it's nice to have our group's small flag so everyone can see where the group begins. If you would like to help out, just let us know. We would be grateful for the help. Stay Toget her As We Tour It will be essential to stay together as a group while touring the sites. This way, you'll stay within range of the audio devices, allowing you to hear the talks clearly and avoid getting lost. Please don't be a straggler or lag behind. Please Don't Block Walkways As We Tour Be mindful not to block walkways, aisles, or other areas. We want to be courteous and not cause others problems trying to get around or through our group. The Use of My Bible Over the years, I have come to rely on my cell phone for Bible teaching because of its convenience and ease of use. However, because I'm known in all our videos to be holding my Bible, I now put my cell phone in my Bible when teaching. When to Ask Questions During the site introductions and during the Bible teaching times, please refrain from asking questions. Otherwise, please feel free to ask any questions you may have. Shekels for Using Some of the Bathrooms Some bathrooms require a few Shekels to use. If possible, have a few Shekels for this (you can withdraw them in Israel at an ATM). We will cover this for you if you don't have any Shekels. Take Photos on Your Phone & Make Copies of Your Passports & Identification If you lose any identity documents, it's a good idea to take photos of them on your cell phone and make copies to carry with you. Transportation on the Sabbath Starting Friday afternoon (around 3:00 pm), all public transportation in Israel will begin shutting down and will not resume until Saturday evening, around 7:00 pm. During this time, transportation options are limited to walking or taking taxis. Taxis operate 24/7. This is a Bible Study Tour This tour will be equivalent to a year of Bible college. You will be immersed in the Bible daily. Please don't grow weary of all the Bible teachings throughout the trip. Soak it in and allow God to transform your life. Farewell Dinner On the last day of the tour, we will have a Farewell Dinner at 5:30 pm in the dining room of the Prima Park hotel in Jerusalem. Everyone is invited to join even if you are staying at a different hotel. For those staying at the Prima Park hotel, you will most likely receive a free dinner voucher. This is to be used for the Farewell Dinner. Please save it in a safe place. Just Call Me Todd While the Lord has blessed me with several Bible degrees , please just call me Todd. I am your humble servant and nothing more. All that I am is due to God's grace and work. Without Him, I am nothing. Emergency Contact s During Tour Hours Joel Fink: joelfink27@gmail.com 1-541-603-4770 USA After Tour Hours Todd Fink: holylandsite.com@gmail.com 1-541-603-0881 USA

See every Bible Site in Israel In-depth! Everything about Israel: Maps, Videos, Books about Israel, Tours, Holy Land Trips to Israel, Footsteps of Jesus, Bible Teachings, Jerusalem, Galilee, Samaria, Bethlehem, Masada, Dead Sea, Capernaum, Negev, Nazareth, Experience Israel Online. Christian Tour Trips to Israel. Exodus Route, Red Sea Crossing, Mount Sinai in Arabia, Noah's Ark, Temple Mount, Temple, City of David, Church of Holy Sepulchre, Church of Nativity, Church of Annunciation, Jordan Home Dear Friend, Perhaps you’d love to visit the Holy Land but can’t, or maybe you have the privilege of going and want to learn more about the places you'll visit. If either is the case, then this website is for you! See the Bible come to life as you walk in the footsteps of Jesus and see the places where the events of the Bible took place. This website enables you to experience the Holy Land online by watching videos and teachings from the Land of the Bible. You’ll discover a new dimension in understanding the Bible, and it will go from black and white to 3D, living color! Holy Land Experience Trip s Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Would you like to have a life-changing and never-to-be-forgotten experience? If so, it is our joy to invite you to join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible, where you will find a new dimension in understanding the Bible and the life of Jesus. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, walked on the water, calmed the sea, and where He was crucified and raised from the dead. We will immerse ourselves in the Land of the Bible and experience it to the depths of our souls. You will never be the same or read your Bible the same after a trip like this. If it's Bible you want, then 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 from the Scriptures of the events and places of the Bible. Our goal is to offer a highly biblical, non-touristy, and inspirational trip to the Land of the Bible. Our trips also include sites that are off the beaten path. ____________ "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 a 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 Holy Land Experience Trip October 16 ~ November 1, 2026 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5 ,450 USD Click for Trip Details A few spots still available. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Holy Land Experience Trip November 6 ~ 22, 2026 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5,450 USD Click for Trip Details A few spots still available. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Holy Land Experience Trip April 30 ~ May 16, 2027 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5 ,850 USD Click for Trip Details This trip is currently full. Please consider one of our next trips or to be placed on the waiting list. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Holy Land Experience Trip October 22 ~ November 7, 2027 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5 ,950 USD Click for Trip Details Spots still available. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Books by HolyLandSite.com Travel Guide Book 664 Pages Bible Companion Book 654 Pages Jerusalem & Central Israel Book 402 Pages Sea of Galilee & Northern Israel Book 222 Pages Negev & Southern Israel Book 222 Pages See some of our most popular videos below!

Overview of Jerusalem's history during the Byzantine Period (313- 614 AD in Jerusalem. Filmed at the Jerusalem model at the House of Caiaphas (St. Peter in Gallicantu), Jerusalem. Jerusalem During the Byzantine Period Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jerusalem During the Byzantine Period 313 - 614 AD Introduction 1. Welcome to a Jerusalem many visitors never see. We often picture this city in the days of King David or Jesus. Here we can see what happened several centuries after Jesus, when great churches became prominent features of its skyline. 2. Imagine pilgrims arriving after weeks or months of travel. They have heard the accounts of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Now they want to see the places where those events were remembered, worship with local Christians, and bring those memories home. 3. The Byzantine Jerusalem model at St. Peter in Gallicantu offers a fascinating view of the city several centuries after Jesus. 4. It helps explain an important chapter in Jerusalem’s history: the development of a major Christian pilgrimage center. It also helps visitors understand why many Jerusalem churches stand over the remains of earlier sanctuaries. 5. The reconstruction was completed in 2003 by archaeologist and biblical scholar Jacques Briend and architect and model maker Jean-Claude Marmorat. 6. Built at a scale of 1:200, it depicts Jerusalem before the Persian attack of AD 614. Its inclusion of Justinian’s Nea Church places the reconstructed scene after that church’s dedication in 543. 7. But keep the dates clear. Jesus did not walk past these Byzantine basilicas. They were built generations later to honor Him and preserve the memory of His ministry. The Gospel events came first; the churches followed. 8. As we explore, keep asking two questions: What does this building tell us about Byzantine Jerusalem? And what does the event it commemorates teach us about Christ?” Location 1. The model is on the grounds of St. Peter in Gallicantu, on the eastern slope of Mount Zion, south of Jerusalem’s present Old City walls. 2. It can be included in a visit to the site traditionally associated with Caiaphas’s house and Peter’s denial of Jesus. Historical Background 1. Jerusalem before the Byzantine Period Roman forces destroyed the Second Temple in AD 70. Elements of that Roman city remain visible today. Around AD 130, Emperor Hadrian gave Jerusalem the Roman name Aelia Capitolina and the region the name Palestinia. Aelia comes from Hadrian’s family name, Aelius. It honored the emperor. Capitolina refers to Jupiter Capitolinus, the chief Roman god associated with Rome’s Capitoline Hill. Together, the name expressed Jerusalem’s new identity as a Roman city honoring Hadrian and Jupiter. Palestinia refers to the Philistines. His intent was to erase any connection the Jews had to their ancestral homeland. Cardo Maximus Cardo Minor 2. The rise of Christian Jerusalem Constantine granted Christianity legal toleration in 313 AD with the Edict of Milan. After Constantine took control of the eastern empire in 324, imperial support helped establish important Christian sanctuaries in Jerusalem. The term Byzantine refers to the eastern Roman civilization centered on Constantinople. 3. Churches Built Over Several Centuries The model brings together buildings from different stages of the Byzantine period. Constantine’s Holy Sepulchre complex was inaugurated in 335. Holy Zion became a major basilica by the early fifth century. Eudocia supported building in Jerusalem during the fifth century. Justinian dedicated the Nea Church in 543. These structures later became memorials and places of worship; they did not stand during Jesus’ earthly ministry. 4. A City of Pilgrimage Pilgrims visited sites associated with Jesus, heard Scripture, joined worship, and carried their experiences home. Egeria’s late-fourth-century account preserves valuable descriptions of Christian worship in Jerusalem. The streets between the shrines were part of the pilgrimage experience. 5. Destruction and Transition Persian forces captured Jerusalem in 614 AD. Byzantine rule was briefly restored before the Muslim conquest around 638. These changes altered the city, although Christian communities and many traditions continued under subsequent rulers. 6. Understanding the Reconstruction A model combines evidence with interpretation. It helps explain relationships among buildings, streets, and terrain, but it cannot establish the precise appearance of every roof, house, or wall. Its strongest teaching value is the overall picture of late Byzantine Jerusalem. Places of Interest 1. The Cardos and the City Streets The Cardo Maximus (built by Hadrian in 135 AD) was the principal colonnaded north–south street. Its southern extension dates to Justinian’s period. It ran from the Damascus Gate south to what is now Zion Gate. The Cardo Minor (built by Hadrian in 135 AD) was another colonnaded north–south street. It ran from the Damascus Gate toward the Temple Mount and then south. The Decumanus Maximus Street. It ran east-west. These streets remind us that Jerusalem was a place of trade, work, and family life as well as worship. 2. The Temple Mount The Temple Mount underwent many changes. 70 AD ~ Temple destroyed. 135 AD ~ A false-god temple to Jupiter was built by Hadrian over where the original temple once stood. 330 AD ~ False-god temple to Jupiter torn down. Byzantines may have built a chapel in its place. 691 AD ~ The Dome of the Rock was built over the original temple site. 3. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre This complex commemorates Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The Byzantine arrangement included the Martyrium basilica, the Golgotha area, and the Anastasis rotunda surrounding the tomb. The model makes their relationship easier to understand than the much-altered buildings visible today. 4. Herod/Pilate's Palace The place where Jesus was tried and condemned to crucifixion by Pontius Pilate. 5. Antonia Fortress A fortress on the northwest corner of the Temple Mount, used for protection. 6. The Church of Holy Zion Hagia Sion stood on the southwestern hill, near today’s Dormition Abbey and Upper Room. It preserved traditions associated with the apostles and the early Jerusalem church. It was built over the site of the Upper Room. The Upper Room is where Jesus celebrated the Passover Meal with His disciples and served as the early believers' headquarters for some time. 7. The Church of St Mary at the Sheep Pool This Byzantine church stands at Bethesda, north of the Temple Mount. Visitors to Bethesda today can see remains of earlier structures beside the Crusader Church of St. Anne. The church shown in the model dates to the earlier Byzantine period. John 5 records Jesus healing a man here who had been ill for thirty-eight years. 8. The Church of St John the Baptist South of the Holy Sepulchre, in the area now known as the Muristan, this church honors the prophet who prepared the way for Jesus. 9. The Church of Siloam At the city's southern end, this church commemorated the healing in John 9. The Byzantine sanctuary was associated with the upper pool near the outlet of Hezekiah’s Tunnel. 10. The Church of St Peter in Gallicantu (House of Caiaphas) This church sits on the eastern slope of Mount Zion, corresponding to the sanctuary grounds where the model stands. The sanctuary dates the first church here to approximately 457–460 AD. The site recalls Peter’s denial and repentance and preserves a tradition concerning Jesus’ appearance before Caiaphas. 11. The Nea Church The Nea, the New Church of Mary, the Mother of God, stood near the southern end of the main Cardo. Dedicated in 543 AD under Justinian, it was a monumental addition to Jerusalem. Its size and relationship to the street reveal the scale of imperial investment in the city. Excavated remains confirm that this great church was a real feature of Byzantine Jerusalem. Faith Lesson from Jerusalem 1. Let remembrance lead to faith and obedience. The model helps us understand how Christians remembered Jesus’ ministry. Our response should go beyond appreciating buildings. James 1:22 calls believers to put God’s Word into practice. As we visit the places connected with Scripture, we should ask how its teaching should shape our lives. 2. Repentance opens the way to renewed service. The Church of Gallicantu brings Peter’s failure into sharp focus. Yet John 21 shows that Jesus continued to work through him. We should take our sins seriously, confess them, and respond to Christ’s call to follow Him. 3. Keep the resurrection central. The Holy Sepulchre recalls the events Paul identifies as foundational to the gospel. Christian hope rests in Jesus’ victory over death. Buildings can be damaged and rebuilt; our confidence belongs in the risen Lord. 4. Practice the priorities of the early church. Holy Zion directs our attention to the Christian community described in Acts. Teaching, fellowship, generosity, the breaking of bread, and prayer should mark our congregations today. A visit to Jerusalem can encourage us to strengthen those habits at home. 5. Point others to Christ John the Baptist’s witness models ministry for us. Our teaching, service, and daily conduct should help others see who Jesus is. As we leave this miniature city, may we carry a clearer understanding of Scripture and a stronger desire to follow Him.

Lachish is regarded as the second most important city after Jerusalem in the southern kingdom of Judah, and it was strategically located on the Via Maris travel route. It was a well-fortified military city with double walls and provided protection to Israel’s southern region. Learn more! It was the last city conquered by the Assyrians before they set their sites on Jerusalem. However, God supernaturally intervened and killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. Tel Lachish Photo Gallery Places of Interest Tel Lachish Location 1. Tel Lachish is in the foothills (Shaphelah) of the Judean Mountains about 18 miles (30 km.) from the Mediterranean Sea and about 25 miles (41 km.) southwest of Jerusalem. 2. Lachish is regarded as the second most important city after Jerusalem in the Southern Kingdom of Judah and was strategically located on the Via Maris travel route. 3. It was a well-fortified military city with double walls and provided protection to Israel’s southern region. Historical Background 1. Lachish has two major settlement periods, a Canaanite and an Israelite settlement period. 2. Lachish was first settled and inhabited by the Canaanites around 3000 BC. 3. It was then conquered by the Israelites under Joshua during the conquest of the Promised Land. 4. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Lachish became a thriving Israelite city during king Rehoboam’s reign (920 BC), and around 10,000 people lived in the city at that time. 5. It was destroyed by the Assyrians in 701 BC and by the Babylonians in 587 BC. 6. Numerous pottery shards (ostraca) were found at Lachish. One spoke of the fall of the close-by city of Azekah (above the Valley of Elah) by the Assyrians. This realization must have sent fear into the hearts of those in Lachish. Another pottery shard spoke of a prophet, most likely Jeremiah. 7. Writings and relief pictures at Nineveh (modern-day Mosul) reveal the destruction of Lachish. 8. Interestingly, ostraca pieces and other findings in Israel reveal the evidence of around 100 biblical names of people in the Bible. 9. There are 2 caves filled with skulls close-by to Lachish, giving evidence of its destruction. 10. In 539 BC, the Persians defeated the Babylonians and allowed the exiles to return to Israel from 538–445 BC. Jerusalem and Lachish were reconstructed at this time (Nehemiah 11:1, 30). 11. Lachish was finally abandoned after the Hellenistic rule in Israel (332–167 BC). Places of Interest 1. Entrance 2. Large Building 3. Siege Ramp 4. City Gate 5. Palace 6. Palace Courtyard 7. Quarry/Reservoir 8. Israelite Temple – Similar layout as the temple in Tel Arad. This temple was also prohibited (Deut. 12:5-7). 9. City Well 10. City Walls Lachish in the Bible 1. The King of Lachish joined 4 other kings to fight against the Gibeonites because they had made peace with Israel during the conquest of the Promised Land. Joshua 10:1–5: As soon as Adoni-zedek, king of Jerusalem, heard how Joshua had captured Ai and had devoted it to destruction, doing to Ai and its king as he had done to Jericho and its king, and how the inhabitants of Gibeon had made peace with Israel and were among them, 2 he feared greatly, because Gibeon was a great city, like one of the royal cities, and because it was greater than Ai, and all its men were warriors. 3 So Adoni-zedek king of Jerusalem sent to Hoham king of Hebron, to Piram king of Jarmuth, to Japhia king of Lachish , and to Debir king of Eglon, saying, 4 “Come up to me and help me, and let us strike Gibeon. For it has made peace with Joshua and with the people of Israel.” 5 Then the five kings of the Amorites, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, and the king of Eglon, gathered their forces and went up with all their armies and encamped against Gibeon and made war against it. 2. Joshua prayed that the sun would stand still so the Israelites could defeat the 5 kings who had gathered to make war against the Gibeonites and the Israelites. Joshua 10:10–14: And the Lord threw them into a panic before Israel, who struck them with a great blow at Gibeon and chased them by the way of the ascent of Beth-horon and struck them as far as Azekah and Makkedah. 11 And as they fled before Israel, while they were going down the ascent of Beth-horon, the Lord threw down large stones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died. There were more who died because of the hailstones than the sons of Israel killed with the sword. 12 At that time Joshua spoke to the Lord in the day when the Lord gave the Amorites over to the sons of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, “Sun, stand still at Gibeon, and moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.” 13 And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped , until the nation took vengeance on their enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? The sun stopped in the midst of heaven and did not hurry to set for about a whole day. 14 There has been no day like it before or since, when the Lord heeded the voice of a man, for the Lord fought for Israel. 3. Joshua and the Israelites conquer Lachish. Joshua 10:31–32: Then Joshua and all Israel with him passed on from Libnah to Lachish and laid siege to it and fought against it. 32 And the Lord gave Lachish into the hand of Israel, and he captured it on the second day and struck it with the edge of the sword, and every person in it, as he had done to Libnah. 4. King Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, fortified Lachish in about 920 BC after the kingdom of Israel was divided. 2 Chronicles 11:5–12: Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem, and he built cities for defense in Judah. 6 He built Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa, 7 Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam, 8 Gath, Mareshah, Ziph, 9 Adoraim, Lachish , Azekah, 10 Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron, fortified cities that are in Judah and in Benjamin. 11 He made the fortresses strong , and put commanders in them, and stores of food, oil, and wine. 12 And he put shields and spears in all the cities and made them very strong. So he held Judah and Benjamin. 5. King Amaziah fled to Lachish after his defeat to the Northern Kingdom of Israel and was killed by his own countrymen in 767 BC. 2 Chronicles 25:14–15: After Amaziah came from striking down the Edomites, he brought the gods of the men of Seir and set them up as his gods and worshiped them, making offerings to them. 15 Therefore the Lord was angry with Amaziah and sent to him a prophet, who said to him, “Why have you sought the gods of a people who did not deliver their own people from your hand?” 2 Chronicles 25:27: From the time when he [Amaziah] turned away from the Lord, they made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem, and he fled to Lachish . But they sent after him to Lachish and put him to death there. 6. God destroyed Lachish because of their continual rejection of God and sinful choices. Micah 1:13: Harness the steeds to the chariots, inhabitants of Lachish ; it was the beginning of sin to the daughter of Zion, for in you were found the transgressions of Israel. 7. Lachish was attacked and destroyed by the Assyrians in 701 BC. After Assyria conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel and led them into captivity to Assyria in 722 BC, King Sennacherib set his sights on Egypt and Judah in 701 BC. 2 Kings 18:13: In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah and took them. 2 Chronicles 32:9–10: After this, Sennacherib king of Assyria, who was besieging Lachish with all his forces, sent his servants to Jerusalem to Hezekiah king of Judah and to all the people of Judah who were in Jerusalem, saying, 10 “Thus says Sennacherib king of Assyria, ‘On what are you trusting, that you endure the siege in Jerusalem? In the destruction of Lachish, as many as 50,000 people were tortured and killed when Sennacherib took it. Based on archaeological discoveries and writings in Nineveh, the Assyrians beheaded, burned, flayed, and impaled those they conquered. Those who escaped death were deported to Assyria, led by rings pierced through their lips. In the writings of Sennacherib, he mentions how his army penetrated fortifications using ramps, battering rams, mines, breeches, and siege engines. The evidence of these tactics can be seen in the siege ramp at Lachish. 8. God supernaturally protected Jerusalem from the Assyrian conquest. After King Sennacherib conquered Lachish and the southern cities of Judah, he set his sights on Jerusalem. The deliverance of Jerusalem in 701 BC, under King Hezekiah’s godly leadership, is one of the most pivotal and monumental miracles in Israel’s history. Assyria rose to world domination and had conquered all the Northern Kingdom of Israel, and all the southern cities of Judah. Jerusalem was the only city left in the whole region that had not fallen. Assyria was hungry and ready to devour Jerusalem by its merciless iron-toothed war machine. 2 Kings 19:8–10: The Rabshakeh returned, and found the king of Assyria fighting against Libnah, for he heard that the king had left Lachish . 9 Now the king heard concerning Tirhakah king of Cush, “Behold, he has set out to fight against you.” So he sent messengers again to Hezekiah, saying, 10 “Thus shall you speak to Hezekiah king of Judah: ‘Do not let your God in whom you trust deceive you by promising that Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria. 2 Kings 19:20: Then Isaiah the son of Amoz sent to Hezekiah, saying, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: Your prayer to me about Sennacherib king of Assyria I have heard.” 2 Kings 19:35–37: And that night the angel of the Lord went out and struck down 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians . And when people arose early in the morning, behold, these were all dead bodies. 36 Then Sennacherib king of Assyria departed and went home and lived at Nineveh. 37 And as he was worshiping in the house of Nisroch his god, Adrammelech and Sharezer, his sons, struck him down with the sword and escaped into the land of Ararat. And Esarhaddon his son reigned in his place. The defeat over Sennacherib at Jerusalem was a devastating blow to the Assyrian Empire, which caused it to spiral downward thereafter. Later, the Babylonian Empire would arise and become the new world power. 9. Lachish was again destroyed by the Babylonians in around 587 BC. Jeremiah 34:6–7: Then Jeremiah the prophet spoke all these words to Zedekiah king of Judah, in Jerusalem, 7 when the army of the king of Babylon was fighting against Jerusalem and against all the cities of Judah that were left, Lachish and Azekah, for these were the only fortified cities of Judah that remained. 10. The destruction and deportations of the Israelites into Assyria and Babylon were because of their continual disobedience to God. Ezra 5:12: But because our fathers had provoked the God of heaven to wrath, He gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this temple and deported the people to Babylon. Ezra 9:7: Since the days of our fathers to this day we have been in great guilt, and on account of our iniquities we, our kings and our priests have been given into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity and to plunder and to open shame, as it is this day. Faith Lesson from Lachish 1. God gave the Israelites a great victory over the king of Lachish by causing the sun to stand still and by sending great hailstones. Joshua demonstrated great faith in asking God to cause the sun to stand still. Do we realize God is able to do great miracles in our lives if we have faith like Joshua? 2. God supernaturally protected Jerusalem because of King Hezekiah’s devotion and faith and defeated the Assyrians by ordering one angel to kill 185,000 soldiers. If our hearts are right before God, there is nothing we should fear. 3. However, around 115 years later, God allowed the Israelites to be conquered by the Babylonians because of their continual sinful choices. When we are not right with God, we find ourselves in the hand of a disciplining God who will deal with us according to His wisdom.

April 30 - May 16, 2027, Registration Form. In-depth 17-day Bible-centered Holy Land tour trip to Israel that allows you to see more holy sites in Israel. Holy Land Trip Registration Form April 30 ~ May 16, 2027, Trip How to Register and Secure Your Spot on the Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime! 1. Fill out and submit the online registration form below. 2. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 3. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Paym ent Link CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com NEXT STEPS 1. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 2. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Payment Link 3. In the meantime, check out our video teachings to the left or see other info about Holy Land Trip orientation, etc. CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com TOUR HOSTS Dr. Todd & Letsy Fink - Tour Hosts More about the Finks