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 the ideal way to see and experience the Holy Land is to be transported around in a bubble. No walking, no getting tired, no struggling with other people, no getting too hot or 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. We want you to have the best experience possible during your dream trip to the Holy Land. Our orientation meeting is designed to help meet this goal. We Are a Family-Run Ministry We are your humble servants, operating as a family. We want to minister to you and bless you during your time in the Land of the Bible. Please don't hesitate to ask for our help. We are here to serve you. 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. Thank you for your faith. There is no perfect time to visit Israel because of war and constant tensions. Our prayer is that God will teach and minister to our hearts and souls in a mighty way during our time here. Thank You Thank you for entrusting us with your trip of a lifetime. We are humbled and honored. We Should All Be Grateful For each one of you joining us on this Holy Land tour, thousands wish they could experience the Holy Land but can't because of health, financial, time constraints, or other reasons. Please be grateful and soak in this rare gift from the Lord. Get Acquainted Time We'll begin our orientation meeting in Israel by getting to know one another. Each person is welcome to state their name and where they're from. Name Tags Each person will receive a name tag. 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. You will be responsible for keeping them charged. You can do this each evening, so they're ready the next day. If you have any issues during the tour, we will be happy to help. At the end of the tour, please return all the loaned equipment returned, except your nametag and holder. They're yours to keep. Please return your equipment in the original plastic Ziploc bag it came in. 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. You can buy lunch items at local grocery stores, or take extra items and leftovers from the hotel breakfast buffets. The hotels will have in-room refrigerators if needed. Stay Hyd rat ed Water is the best way to stay hydra ted. Soda and most other drinks don't hydrate you; instead, they make you go to the bathroom more often . Many bathroom stops can significantly slow down our tour schedule. So, it's essential to stay hydrated with the best option 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 can use the restroom and purchase souvenirs if desired. We'll tell you when the tour bus will depart. Dress Code 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 keep their legs covered well below the 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 go. 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 too much to prevent frequent bathroom trips. 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 helps to find one and use the buddy system so you don't get left behind. No Bathrooms on Tour Buses in Israel Israel doesn't allow any bathrooms on any buses in Israel. This prevents sewage from being discharged 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. 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 entering a church doesn't mean we endorse or agree with its views. These churches have preserved these sites over the years, allowing us to see them 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 we won't enter. 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, but we won't enter the tomb. We'll see the tomb from the outside and look inside, but not enter. 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 wait in the long lines, we will have to eliminate other sites from 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 am to depart for the tour bus. The tour bus will leave the hotel promptly at 7:30 am. Unfortunately, we cannot wait for late arrivals, so each person is responsible for being 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 7:15 am. The tour bus will leave the hotel promptly at 7:30 am. 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 can't go back for it. We're sorry, but you'll have to make your own plans for this. When loading the tour bus with your luggage, stow anything you don't need for the day in the luggage compartment under the bus. For anything you need for the day of touring the sites, etc., you can take it on the bus and stow it above or under your seat. 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. You can find our itinerary on our website. Please Be Punc tual Your experience, and everyone else's, will be much better if everyone is punctual. Our group can only be as fast as the slowest person, so please be punctual and considerate of others. If you tend to be late, consider starting earlier than usual so you can be on time. Tour Trip Itinera ry If you don't have Internet service while you're away from your hotel, download the tour trip webpage so you can view the itinerary if you are late and miss the tour bus. Digital Maps of Daily Trip Itinerary On the trip itinerary webpage, 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 we spend too much time shopping, we might have to cut 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 for these times. If you see something at a site you must have, please buy it quickly so we can move along and see all the sites on that day's agenda. 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 late person, 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 to get you into 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. Tourist Site Warnings At some sites like the Church of the Nativity, Mount of Olives viewing place, Old City Jerusalem, and so forth, you'll need to watch out for people trying to steal from you, beg for money, and coerce you into buying their merchandise. Make certain your wallet and purse are safe, and be careful when opening them or showing cash. Internet Service While In Israel If you don't have Internet access through your phone service, each hotel provides free Wi-Fi 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 Please don't block walkways, aisles, or other areas. We want to be courteous and not cause others problems trying to get around or through our group. We Will Begin Each Day with a Short Devotional While on the tour bus, we'll sing a song, review the sites we'll see that day, and share a short devotional thought and prayer. This will help us set our hearts on the Lord and get the most out of our time in the Land of the Bible. The Use of My Bible Over the years, I have come to rely on my cell phone for Bible teaching because it's convenient and easy to 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 pay this for you if you don't have any Shekels. Take Screenshots on Your Phone of Your Passports & Identification If you lose any identity documents, 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. Grace, Grace, Grace We will present the evidence of our research at each biblical site. Some of you might disagree, and that's perfectly okay. We are grateful and welcome your viewpoints. We will present our research with utmost humility and grace. Farewell Dinner On the last day of the tour, we will have a Farewell Dinner at 6:00 pm in the dining room of the Prima Park hotel in Jerusalem. Everyone is invited, even if you are staying at a different hotel. If you are staying at the Prima Park Hotel, you will most likely receive a free dinner voucher. Use it for the Farewell Dinner. Please save it in a safe place. Announcements for the Next Tour Day At the end of each tour day, we will make announcements for the next day about the sites we'll see, clothing suggestions, and other instructions. 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

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 Byzantine Churches and a Muslim building 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 that many believe fulfill prophecy. Many ruins spanning thousands of years. 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. Two million Jews gathered at Shiloh on the main festivals and camped on the surrounding hills. 3. 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 ~ We'll see another one later on that is much better. 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. Jama'a al-Yatim mosque from around 1250 AD, built on the west side of the northern 4th- and 6th-century Byzantine Church ruins. 12. 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. 13. Proposed tabernacle location by Yosef Garfinkel. It was outside the city walls, which 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. 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, skin care, 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. 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. In 1010 BC, under King David, Jerusalem became the center of worship because it was centrally located. 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. In 732 BC, the Assyrians began conquering Israel's northern tribes. Many refugees from the north fled to Jerusalem and built modest homes on its western hill. In 722 BC (roughly 200 years after the kingdom was divided), the Assyrians took the northern tribes of Israel into captivity. In 701 BC, King Hezekiah built a large wall to enclose refugees who had fled the Assyrian conquest in the north and were living outside the walls; it was 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 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. The 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 .) 1350 BC ~ The Bible is silent on the Ark's return to Shiloh, but we know by at least 1100 BC it was in Shiloh according to 1 Sam. 1:24. It seems to have spent a short time in Bethel. 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 Gibeah, which was near 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 ~ 1350 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 ~ After this battle, the Ark of the Covenant and the tabernacle were separated at Shiloh. 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 Ark spent seven months in Philistine custody, according to 1 Samuel 5–6. 1070 ~ It later was taken to Obed-edom’s house for three months. God blessed his household as a result. 1070 ~ Kiriath-jearim: The Ark would spend around 50 years here (1 Sam. 6:21). 1020 ~House of Abinadab: The Ark would spend 20 years here (1 Sam. 7:1-2). 1000 ~ King David brings the Ark of the Covenant to the City of David. David builds a special tent for the Ark (2 Samuel 6:17). 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 such large crowds. 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 by Dr. Scott Stripling. While we have utmost respect for Dr. Stripling, we have questions about this proposed site. Here is our reasoning: The proposed 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 this proposed site that has stone walls seems to contradict Scripture. The following are the tabernacle's travels after arriving in the Promised Land. These verses indicate the tabernacle was mobile and moved around, and wasn't a fixed stone structure. 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 the large masses of worshippers. 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 the 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 the remaining Israelites 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 prayer 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. After the Ark had spent 7 months in the hands of the Philistines, it was returned to Beth Shemesh by the Philistines (1 Sam. 6:1-18). 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?

Hebron is mentioned 72 times in the Bible. It's the beginning place of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants happened in Hebron or nearby. Later, from Hebron, David would reign for 7 1/2 years before becoming king over all Israel in Jerusalem. Sites of interest include Macpelah: Cave of the Patriarchs, where Abraham, Sara, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah are buried. Oaks of Mamre, David's Palace, Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida). Hebron: Caves of Machpelah Photo Gallery Caves of Macpelah Building Layout Places of Interest Hebron: Caves of Machpelah Introduction Welcome to the Caves of Machpelah. Many significant events from the Bible took place in this area. These are the highlights. 1. After God affirmed His covenant with Abraham, he built an altar to the Lord nearby at Mamre. Mamre is located within Hebron, just one mile (1.5 km) north of the Cave of Machpelah. 2. At Hebron, Abraham bought the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife, Sarah, and his family. Genesis 23:19: After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan. 3. Later, Abraham, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah would also be buried in the Cave of Machpelah. 4. Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance for his faithfulness to the Lord. 5. Samson carried the gates of Gaza 35 miles (55 km) up to a mountain close to Hebron. 6. David was anointed king in Hebron and reigned here for 7 1/2 years. 7. The Caves of Machpelah mark the beginning place and roots of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants took place in Hebron or its vicinity. These promises also had wide-reaching implications and included all the nations of the earth. 8. The property of the Caves of Machepelah is the first legal land acquisition in the Promised Land. This fulfilled part of the Abrahamic covenant that God gave Abraham in Genesis chapters 12 and 13. 9. The monument we see today was constructed by Herod the Great around 20 BC. 10. The monument structure we see today is divided into two sections: a Jewish synagogue and a Mosque. We'll explore both sections. Location 1. The city of Hebron is set in the Judean Mountains, about 20 miles (32 km) south of Jerusalem. 2. Hebron stands 3,000 feet (914 m) above sea level, making it the highest city in Israel. 3. It is located on a well-traveled route that runs north and south through the mountainous part of Israel. Well-known towns such as Beersheba, Hebron, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Bethel, Shiloh, and Shechem are located along this route. 4. Abraham and the other patriarchs traveled this route repeatedly. Historical Background 1. The Caves of Machpelah mark the beginning place and roots of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants took place in Hebron or its vicinity. These promises also had wide-reaching implications and included all the nations of the earth. 2. The property of the Caves of Machepelah is the first legal land acquisition in the Promised Land. This fulfilled part of the Abrahamic covenant that God gave Abraham in Genesis chapters 12 and 13. 3. It began to be venerated during the time the Patriarchs were buried here. Then King David preserved it so it could be remembered and venerated. This is evident in the fact that he built protective walls around Abraham's Altar at the Oaks of Mamre, which can still be seen today. So it's very likely he did the same here at this site. We must realize that Abraham and the Patriarchs are monumental in importance to God's master plan. So, this site was set aside and valued to an extent we find hard to understand. 4. So, throughout the Old Testament period, it would be venerated. Pottery and artifacts dating to King David's time, around 1000 BC, found in the caves support this. 5. Then Herod the Great, around 20 BC, built massive walls around the caves, including a floor about halfway up the walls covering the caves. This floor provided access from above down to the caves. Later, during the Muslim Period, access was closed off. Herod built the walls around the caves using the same building-stone style as the Temple Mount Platform and the structure he built a short distance to the north, at the Oaks of Mamre, where Abraham had built an altar. 6. After the time of Herod, during the Byzantine Period, around 325 AD, Christians built a Basilica Church on top of the floor inside the walls of the structure Herod built. 7. During the Muslim Period, around 650 AD, the basilica church and site were converted into a Mosque. During the 10th century, an entrance was pierced through the north-eastern wall, some distance above the external ground level, and steps from the north and east were built up to it. 8. In 1100 AD, after the Crusaders captured the area, the enclosure once again became a church. During this period, the Byzantines remodeled the church and other buildings, adding new gabled and vaulted roofs and elegant windows. Most of the internal buildings visible today date back to the Crusader period. 9. In 1188 AD, the Muslims once again conquered the area. At this time, they reconverted and remodeled the enclosure into a mosque, allowing Christians to continue worshipping there. The red-and-white building material seen today dates to this period. Saladin also added a minaret at each corner—two of which still survive. Samuel ben Samson visited the cave in 1210, and records that visitors wanting to see the original caves must descend by twenty-four steps in a passageway so narrow that the rock touches him on either hand. 10. Around 1320 AD, during the Muslim Mamluk period, cenotaphs were made for each of the Patriarchs and their wives. Cenotaph means tomb, memorial, or marker. These cenotaphs were evenly spaced out on the floor inside the structure. These markers are not directly over the tombs; instead, they serve as markers. Two side-by-side caves contain the tombs of all the Patriarchs and their wives. However, Abraham's tomb marker is directly over the caves. 11. From 1267 to 1967 AD, Jews were not allowed any access inside the structure. They were only allowed to approach as far as the seventh step of the southern stairway. 12. In 1967, the southern stair access was removed by the Israelis. However, you can still see evidence of it today. In summary, this site has been venerated for nearly 4,000 years. This is quite amazing. Discoveries of the Caves 1. There are many eyewitness accounts of those who have visited the caves below the floor of this structure today. These accounts span the period from approximately 325 to 1981 AD. The floor we are standing on was part of the original structure built by Herod the Great. So, you're standing on stones that are approximately 2,000 years old. The original caves lie beneath this floor. When Herod built the structure, he erected thick outer walls of protection with a floor about halfway up. Access to the caves was through this floor, down steps. 2. The word Machpelah means double or side by side. This refers to the two caves side by side, where the three patriarchs and their wives were buried. Access to the caves is currently not permitted. The caves have two entrances. One is a narrow shaft about 11 inches (28 centimeters) wide. The other, called the Serdab entrance, is much larger. Both the shaft and Serdab entrances are located in the Isaac and Rebeccah Hall area. 3. T he most recent accounts of Israelis entering the caves take place in 1968 and 1981. 4. In 1967, after the Six-Day War, the area fell into the hands of the Israel Defense Forces. In 1968, Moshe Dayan, the Defense Minister and an amateur archaeologist, attempted to regain access to the tombs. Unaware of the Serdab entrance, Dayan focused on the narrow shaft entrance visible below the decorative grate and decided to send someone thin enough to fit through the shaft and down into the chamber below. Dayan eventually found a slim 12-year-old girl named Michal to assist, sending her into the chamber with a camera. She saw some things underground but couldn't enter the caves because a rock blocked the entrance. 5. In 1981, Seev Jevin, the former director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, entered the caves by the Serdab access using chisels to remove the sealed-up entrance and discovered the square stone in the round chamber that concealed the cave entrance. Reports state that after entering the first cave, which seemed to Jevin to be empty, he found a passage leading to a second oval chamber, smaller than the first, that contained shards of pottery and a wine jug. Findings published in the Israel Exploration Journal in 2020 stated that the pottery dates back to the time of King David and the 8th century BC, originating from various locations in the Hebron and Jerusalem areas. The caves are located directly below the Cenotaph of Abraham. 6. In 1994, after a bloody massacre, the site was divided between Muslims and Jews to maintain peace. However, for a short time each year, the site is fully open to each group for ten days. 7. Christians are allowed to enter both the Muslim and Jewish areas. Places of Interest Outside the Building 1. Herod the Great built the building around 20 BC. Notice the large stones with the Herodian bosses. This same stone style appears at the Oaks of Mamre and throughout Jerusalem. 2. The enclosure measures approximately 59 by 34 meters (194 by 112 ft). 3. It originally enclosed an open space; later, they added roofs and worship halls. The medieval minarets are not from Herod's time, but were added during Muslim control. 4. The large monuments inside are cenotaphs—memorials representing those believed buried below. Ordinary visitors cannot enter the underground chambers. 5. Tel Hebron: Where King David built a palace and reigned over southern Israel for 7 1/2 years. 6. The building has separate Jewish and Muslim worship areas and entrances. Entering one side does not automatically give access to the other. The Hall of Isaac and Rebekah is part of the mosque section. 7. The story starts in Genesis 23. Sarah died at age 127 in Kiriath-arba, identified in the passage as Hebron. Abraham mourned her and negotiated with Ephron the Hittite for a burial property. 8. Abraham purchased the cave, its field, and the trees within its boundaries for 400 shekels of silver. This was weighed silver, not minted coins. The transaction was publicly witnessed. Sarah’s burial established the property as the family burial place. 9. God had promised Abraham the land, yet Abraham still lived as a sojourner and purchased a place to bury his wife. 10. The name Machpelah is associated with the idea of “double.” Later explanations connect this with the cave’s arrangement or with the couples buried there. Sites Inside the Jewish Side of the Building 1. Entrance 2. Jewish Synagogue Study Room The Jewish side of the building functions as an active synagogue, with regular Jewish prayer services, Torah readings, and individual prayer. It contains Torah scrolls, prayer books, and areas arranged for worship—not simply for viewing the memorials. 3. Courtyard Roof Over the Jewish Side of the Building It historically remained open to the sky. The Crusaders covered the Jewish side of the building around 1150 AD. Tarp cover in recent years. A new permanent roof was completed in September 2026, covering about 300 square meters (3,230 square ft). 4. Courtyard Roof Over the Muslim Side of the Building The roof over the main Muslim prayer hall—the Hall of Isaac and Rebekah—is primarily medieval, dating to the twelfth-century Crusader church. Its stone vaults were retained when the church became a mosque after Saladin’s recovery of Hebron in the late 1180s, and were repaired during the Mamluk period. 5. Jacob's Tomb Again, the modern tomb locations are not directly over the burial caves (except for Abraham). They are cenotaphs ( memorials representing those buried below). 6. Esau Memorial Jewish tradition connects this area with the burial of Esau’s head. Esau’s memorial is associated with a Jewish tradition that only his head was buried in the Cave of Machpelah. The story comes from later rabbinic writings; it is not recorded in the Bible. 7. Abraham's Tomb ~ On the opposite side is the Muslim viewing area. 8. Sarah's Tomb ~ On the opposite side is the Muslim viewing area. 9. Access doors to the Muslim side of the building where Isaac and Rebekah's tombs are. These open once a year, allowing access from one side to the other. 10. Inner Courtyard 11. Jacob Hall ~ Viewing area to see Leah's Tomb. 12. Leah's Tomb Sites Inside the Muslim Side of the Building 1. Entrance 2. Rebekah's Tomb 3. Isaac's Tomb 4. Serdab entrance leading down to the burial caves. 5. Candle-opening entrance leading down to the burial caves. 6. Access doors to the Jewish side of the building. Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida) 1. Abraham’s Well 2. Ancient Stairs 3. Tomb of Jesse and Ruth (King David’s father and great-grandmother) 4. Old Olive Trees 5. Ancient Canaanite City Walls 6. The Canaanite wall overlaid by a glacis from the Israelite period. 7. Walls and a stone road from the time of Abraham. 8. Likely place of King David's Palace 9. Four-room structure from the time of King Hezekiah 10. Ancient Synagogue 11. Stepped street from the Early Roman period. 12. Pottery workshop from the Early Roman period. 13. Eastern ritual bath from the Early Roman period. 14. Western ritual bath from the Early Roman period. 15. New Excavations 16. Hebron Observatory Hebron in the Bible 1. After God affirmed His covenant with Abraham, he built an altar to the Lord nearby at Mamre. Genesis 13:17–18: Arise, walk about the land through its length and breadth; for I will give it to you.” 18 Then Abram moved his tent and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre, which are in Hebron , and there he built an altar to the Lord. 2. At Hebron, Abraham learned in a dream that his descendants would spend 400 years as slaves in Egypt. Genesis 15:12–14: Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him. 13 God said to Abram, “Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years. 14 But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward, they will come out with many possessions. 3. At Hebron, Ismael was born to Abraham and Sarah’s handmaid, Hagar (Gen. 16:4). 4. Near Hebron, God made a covenant with Abraham that he would be “the ancestor of a multitude of nations.” Genesis 17:1–8: When Abram was ninety-nine years old the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, 2 that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly.” 3 Then Abram fell on his face. And God said to him, 4 “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. 5 No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. 6 I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. 7 And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. 8 And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.” 5. At Hebron, Abraham offered hospitality to three servant angels of God and received the promise of a son. Genesis 18:10–14: They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.” 10 The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him. 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?” 13 The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’ 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.” 6. At Hebron, Abraham bought the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife, Sarah, and his family. Genesis 23:19: After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron ) in the land of Canaan. 7. Later, Abraham, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah would also be buried in the Cave of Machpelah. 8. Jacob returned to Hebron after he had sojourned in Paddan-aram. Genesis 35:27: Jacob came to his father Isaac at Mamre of Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron ), where Abraham and Isaac had sojourned. 9. Joseph was sent from Hebron to Shechem, where he would be sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. Genesis 37:14: Then he said to him, “Go now and see about the welfare of your brothers and the welfare of the flock, and bring word back to me.” So he sent him from the valley of Hebron , and he came to Shechem. 10. Near Hebron, two of the spies who researched the Promised Land returned with a large cluster of grapes. Numbers 13:21–23: So the men explored the land from the Desert of Zin to the border of Hamath. 22 They went through the Negev and came to Hebron , where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai lived. They are descendants of Anak. (Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.) 23 When they came to the Eshcol Valley, they cut off a branch with only one bunch of grapes on it. They carried it on a pole between two of them. 11. Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance for his faithfulness to the Lord. Joshua 14:13–14: So Joshua blessed him and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 14 Therefore, Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb, the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite until this day, because he followed the Lord God of Israel fully. 12. Samson carried the gates of Gaza 35 miles (55 km) up to a mountain close to Hebron. Judges 16:1–3: But Samson lay till midnight, and at midnight he arose and took hold of the doors of the gate of the city and the two posts, and pulled them up, bar and all, and put them on his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that is in front of Hebron . 13. David was anointed king in Hebron and reigned here for 7 1/2 years (2 Sam. 2:1–4, 11). Faith Lesson from Hebron 1. God confirmed His promises and covenants with Abraham at Hebron and fulfilled them all. Do we believe in and embrace God's promises? 2. Caleb was one of the faithful spies who received Hebron as a reward. Are we as faithful as Caleb, and do we place our hope in our eternal home in heaven as our reward? 3. David was anointed king in Hebron because he was a person after God’s own heart. Do we love the Lord like David, and do we desire to serve Him in significant ways as David did?

This video provides the most comprehensive and complete evidence that proves the original temple of Solomon, and the rebuilt temples of Zerubbabel and Herod the Great, were located on the Temple Mount, exactly where the Dome of the Rock is today. Today, some are promoting the theory that the Temple was in the City of David and that the Temple Mount was a Roman Fort. We will answer each of their arguments with facts, the Bible, archeology, and eyewitness accounts. Temple Location Photo Gallery Places of Interest Temple Mount Location Location 1. Archaeological discoveries now reveal the location of the original temple and the Temple Mount platform of Solomon, Hezekiah, Zerubbabel, the Hasmoneans, and Herod's temple, wherein Christ ministered. 2. Today, a growing number of people claim that the temple and Temple Mount were located in the City of David. This is simply not true. Therefore, we will attempt to show, from Scripture, historical, archaeological, and practical reasons, why their claims are untrue. 3. The Temple Mount is located on the eastern side of Old City Jerusalem 4. It occupies 1/6 of the current city. 5. It is 35 acres (14 hectares) in size, the equivalent of 35 football fields. Historical Background 1. The Temple Mount has played a “center stage” role for much of Israel’s history and has functioned as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. 2. About one-tenth of all the stories about Jesus took place on the Temple Mount. 3. It will play a key part during the Millennial Reign of Christ on the earth as well. 4. God has chosen to focus His presence and attention there like a laser beam from heaven, like no other place. 5. Solomon built the first temple around 960 BC, which the Babylonians destroyed in 586 BC. 6. The second temple was overseen by Zerubbabel after the deportation and return of the Jews. It was dedicated in 515 BC. 7. The Hasmoneans enlarged the Temple Mount to the south around 140 BC. 8. King Herod dismantled Zerubbabel’s Temple only after he had prepared the materials and workers. He then rebuilt the sanctuary on new foundations at the same sacred site, while significantly expanding the surrounding Temple Mount platform and courts. It was still called the Second Temple because Jewish worship continued in the same sacred institution that had begun under Zerubbabel. But architecturally, by Jesus’ day, it was essentially Herod’s magnificent replacement and expansion of Zerubbabel’s much smaller Temple. The following is a 10-part series done by Leen Ritmeyer, who is probably the leading archaeologist on the Temple Mount and its history: 1. Mount Moriah 2. The Temple Mount During the Jebusite Period 3. The Temple Mount During the Time of Solomon 4. The Temple Mount During the time of King Hezekiah 5. The Temple Mount During the Times of Ezra and Nehemiah 6. The Temple Mount During the Hellenistic and Hasmonean Periods 7. The Temple Mount During the Herodian Period 8. The Temple Mount During the Roman Period 9. The Temple Mount During the Byzantine Period 10. The Temple Mount in the Early Muslim Period Places of Interest 1 . Location of Solomon's original Temple Mount Platform. Archaeological, historical, and eyewitness accounts place the first and second temples directly beneath the Dome of the Rock. According to the Mishnah (Jewish writings on various aspects of Jewish law, customs, measurements, and so forth), the original Temple Mount Platform measured 500 cubits square. Using the royal cubit, the standard unit of measurement at the time (20.67 inches, or 525 mm), Solomon's original Temple Mount Platform measured 861 ft (262.5 m) in length. Amazingly, evidence supports these exact measurements on each side of Solomon's original platform. 2. The Southwest corner of the original Temple Mount Platform that Solomon built. This can be located through archaeological work at Barclay's Gate. 3. Western side of the original platform. Warren's Gate: Evidence can be seen in an additional gate called “Warren’s Gate,” which can be found butted up against the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform beneath the platform surface. Western Wall location today. 4. Dome of the Rock Platform Solomon's original Temple Mount Platform was at approximately the same level. 5. Northwestern Corner of Solomon's Original Temple Platform Evidence from massive stones dating back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah is visible today. They run parallel with the Eastern Wall. The boss can't be seen today because it's covered with stone tiles, but photos from the 1960s show it. The boss style is from the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. This same style of stone can be seen at the base of the Eastern Gate. The distance from this corner to the eastern wall of the Temple Mount platform is exactly 500 cubits, 861 ft., or 262.5 m. 6. Antonia Fortress The Jewish historian Josephus writes that it was built on bedrock. You can see the bedrock on which it was built. Currently, a grade school is located there. There were steps in this area leading up from the Temple Mount to the Antonia Fortress. It is here that Paul addressed the angry crowd below. Acts 21:34-36: Some in the crowd were shouting one thing, some another. And as he could not learn the facts because of the uproar, he ordered him to be brought into the barracks. 35 And when he came to the steps , he was actually carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the crowd, 36 for the mob of the people followed, crying out, “Away with him!” The rock face has holes or sockets where beams for the portico that ran along its southern side were attached. 7. Northern Side of the Original Temple Mount Platform This is on the same line as the northern part of the Dome of the Rock platform today. Evidence of a pre-Herodian wall was found underground by cistern 29. 8. Eastern Side of the Original Temple Mount Platform Just north of where the northern wall of the 500-cubit mount platform meets the Eastern Wall, we find an offset in the wall, located 68 feet (20.73 meters) to the north. This offset indicates that a tower once stood at this corner for protection purposes. Measuring from where the northern wall of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform meets the Eastern Wall going south, we find a curious bend in the wall at exactly 861 feet, or 262.5 meters. This bend in the wall resulted from later construction added to the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform during the Hasmonean period, around 140 BC. Their construction used a slightly different angle than the original platform. Also, there is a change in the stone style. The stones after the bend have a boss shape that dates to the Hasmonean period. The stone positioning and configurations also indicate that a corner was once located at this bend in the wall. Further south along the Eastern Wall, we see a seam in the construction. The stone styles change, and the stones are butted against one another. This marks the beginning of Herod the Great's expansion of the Temple Mount Platform. 9. Eastern Gate In the Eastern Gate area, we also see ancient stones with boss shapes that date back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. It is worth noting that the location of the Eastern Wall remained unchanged throughout the entire history of the Temple Mount. This is due to the Kidron Valley and its steep decline on this side. So, again, these ancient stones reveal that the Eastern side of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform dates back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. 10. Solomon's Portico Important gathering place. Acts 5:12: Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico . 11. Muslim Excavations In 1999, the WAQF, the Jordanian body that retains authority over the Temple Mount and other Muslim holy places, used bulldozers to remove some 10,000 tons of dirt (400 dump truck loads) from the area known as King Solomon’s Stables to create an emergency exit for the Marwani Mosque, which can accommodate 10,000 people. This was dumped in the Kidron Valley. Israelis took this dirt to a location on Mount Scopus, where it is now being sifted. This is known as the "Sifting Project." Its contents reveal overwhelming evidence that the Temple Mount is the authentic location of the original temple. The original stone tiles of Herod's renovated Temple Mount Platform have been found. Until 1920, Muslim pamphlets describing the Dome of the Rock stated that it was built directly over the site where the original temple once stood. Today, the stairs descend to the Al-Marwani Mosque, inaugurated in 1996, located under the Temple Mount in the area once called Solomon's Stables by the Crusaders. 12. Royal Stoa It is most likely that Pentecost happened at the southern end of the Temple Mount in the area of the Royal Stoa. It is unlikely that Pentecost occurred in the Upper Room, since a multitude gathered to witness this astounding event. The Upper Room couldn’t have accommodated a crowd of 15,000–30,000. Scripture says the coming of the Holy Spirit filled a house. It doesn’t mention the Upper Room. In many places in the Bible, the temple is referred to as the House of the Lord or just the house. The Hebrew word for "house" in Acts 2:2 is "Har Ha Bait," which means "the mountain of THE house," or "the dwelling place of God." "House" can also refer to just a covered area. At the southern side of the Temple Mount, just above the Southern Stairs, was the Royal Stoa. The coming of the Holy Spirit occurred at 9:00 a.m., the time of morning prayers at the temple. According to Scripture, it was customary for the apostles to visit the temple during these times of prayer. The Temple Mount and Southern Stair area could easily have accommodated the large crowd of 15,000–30,000 who gathered at Pentecost. Acts 2:41 says 3,000 were saved and baptized. Around the Southern Stairs are many mikveh cleansing pools that could have been used to baptize those who were saved. The southern part of the Temple Mount would have been a natural place for Pentecost to occur, as it was a center of public activity. The Upper Room area was a residential neighborhood, and there's no reason 15,000-30,000 people would have been there when the events of Pentecost happened that drew such a large crowd. This area also had all the mikvehs necessary for baptizing, as well as space to accommodate such a large crowd. 13. Southern Stairs Area Trumpeter's Stone Destroyed Roman Street by Robinson's Arch 14. South end of the Temple Mount Platform: it had a slightly different length than the three other sides. It measured 495 cubits, 853 ft., 260 m. It's believed that this was due to the Ophel rise, which made it difficult to build over. 15. Al Aqsa Mosque The Al-Aqsa mosque (also “Al-Aksa”, which means “the remote” mosque). It was named after the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad’s imaginative travel from Mecca to a remote mosque. It was built around 685 to 715 AD. It has been rebuilt and restored many times. When the Crusaders were in control, they referred to it as "The Temple of Solomon." Only Muslims are allowed inside. The Israeli police may enter only if necessary. The mosque can hold around 5,000 people. 16. Ancient Stone Steps These are original stones from the time of Herod or earlier, which would have been steps leading from the Court of the Gentiles to the Outer Court of the Temple. 17. Dome of the Rock It was built in 691 AD. It sits exactly over where the original temples stood. Inside is a square shaped like the Ark of the Covenant. When the Crusaders were in control, they referred to it as "The Temple of the Lord." It is a Muslim shrine today. Only Muslims may enter. All others by permission only. 18. Recycled Decorated Stone from a Byzantine Church This is found at the base of the Dome of the Rock, just to the right of the main entrance facing east. It was placed there in the Umayyad Period, specifically when the Dome of the Rock was being constructed under the orders of Caliph Abd al‑Malik between 691 and 692 AD. It has some crosses that have been scratched away. 19. Baptistry Chapel from the Byzantine Period The baptismal tank is near the chapel. 20. The Temple Treasury Located on the north side of the Temple sanctuary. The most notable words of Jesus in this location are “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12), “The truth will set you free” (John 8:32), and ‘Before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58). About one-tenth of all the stories about Jesus took place on the Temple Mount. 21. Dome of the Spirits Also known as the Dome of the Tablets, this small dome was constructed around 950 AD during the Muslim Umayyad Period. One theory suggests that it is located above the “Spirits Cave,” where the spirits of the dead gather for prayer. Another theory, called the Dome of the Tablets, holds that the tablets were kept inside the Ark of the Covenant, implying that this might be the location of the Holy of Holies — a theory with which most scholars disagree. It was built on a large Herodian paving stone measuring 12 ft (3.70m) by 11.5 ft (3.50m). According to Warren’s survey maps, it is situated approximately 10 feet (3m) above the natural bedrock. It was part of the pavement laid north of the buildings surrounding the Temple. 22. Original Temple Location Holy of Holies According to the Mishnah, only a rectangular depression in the bedrock remained where the Ark once stood. This exact shape has been identified inside the Dome of the Rock. Holy Place Altar Nicanor Gate/Beautiful Gate Inner Court Outer Court Court of the Gentiles 23. Threshing floor of Arunah (Ornan), the Jebusite that David purchased. 24. Dome of the Chain Located just east of the Dome of the Rock, this is where the Holy Place of the original temples stood. 25. Dome of the Prophet Located just northwest of the Dome of the Rock Built in 1539 AD, it is traditionally believed that Muhammad led the former Jewish prophets (including Jesus) and angels in prayer at this spot on the night he ascended into heaven. 26. Dome of the Ascension Located just north of the Dome of the Prophet. It was built sometime between the 7th and 10th centuries AD. Some believe it was built on the spot from which Muhammad ascended into Heaven on his night journey. The Original Temple Mount Platform Location 1. It was not in the City of David but on Mount Moriah, where the Temple Mount Platform is today. After Solomon built the temple, he brought the Ark of the Covenant out of the City of David to the temple on Mt. Moriah. 2 Chronicles 5:2: "Then Solomon assembled to Jerusalem the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes, the leaders of the fathers’ households of the sons of Israel, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord out of the City of David , which is Zion." 2. The Northern Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform According to the Mishnah (Jewish writings on various aspects of Jewish law, customs, measurements, and so forth), the original Temple Mount Platform measured 500 cubits square. Using the royal cubit, the universal unit of measurement of the time, would be 861 ft (262.4 m) . Amazingly, the distance from the corner of this Pre-Herodian stone step to the Eastern Wall is exactly 861 feet, or 262.4 meters. This northern edge of the original Temple Mount Platform also aligns with the current Dome of the Rock Platform. Additional evidence of a pre-Herodian wall can also be found underground by cistern 29. Considering these factors, we now have strong evidence of the location of the northern wall of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Next, we come to the Eastern Wall. Just north of where the northern wall of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform meets the eastern wall, we find an offset in the wall, located 68 feet (20.73 meters) to the north. This offset indicates that a tower once stood at this corner for protection purposes. 3. The Eastern Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform Measuring south from where the northern wall of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform meets the Eastern wall, we find a curious bend in the wall at exactly 861 ft (262.5 m). This bend in the wall resulted from later construction added to the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform during the Hasmonean period, around 140 BC. Their construction used a slightly different angle than the original platform. Also, there is a change in the stone style. The stones after the bend have a boss shape that dates to the Hasmonean period. The stone positioning and configurations also indicate that a corner was once located at this bend in the wall. This archaeological evidence reveals that this point was the corner of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Again, this section of the Eastern Wall measures exactly 861 ft (262.5 m), or 500 cubits. In this Eastern Gate area, we also see ancient stones with boss shapes that date back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. It should be noted that the Eastern Wall location remained unchanged throughout the entire history of the Temple Mount. This is due to the Kidron Valley and its steep decline on this side. So, again, these ancient stones reveal that the Eastern side of the 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform dates back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah. 4. The Southern Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform Next, we’ll look at the southern wall of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Measuring 495 Cubits ( 853 feet, 260 meters from the southwest corner of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform, which has a bend in the wall, we come to the entrance of Barclay’s Gate. This gate was built later by Herod and was butted up against the southern wall of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. This slight difference in measurement amounts to less than 1% and was probably the result of the two corners being obscured by the elevation of Mt. Moriah between them. 5. The Western Part of the Original Temple Mount Platform The Western Wall section of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform can be located by the established corners of the northwest and southwest corners and measures exactly 861 feet (262.5 meters). Additionally, the Excavations of Barclay's Gate also show this corner. More evidence can be seen in an additional gate called “Warren’s Gate,” which can be found butted up against the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. In summary, we see overwhelming evidence of the original 500-cubit-square Temple Mount Platform. Evidence of the Enlargements of the Temple Mount Platform We can also see the evidence of the Hasmonean and Herodian additions to the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Hasmonean Enlargement Around 140 BC, the Hasmoneans added a section to the southern part of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform. Again, this is evident in the bend of the Eastern Wall and the varied stone styles employed. Herod the Great Enlargement Herod the Great embarked on a massive expansion of the Temple Mount Platform around 19 BC. Josephus, the Jewish historian who lived around the time of Christ, describes how the Temple Mount was doubled in size after the Hasmonean expansion. He enlarged it to the south, west, and north. Today, we see this evidence throughout the expansion sections. One key place is the expansion of the southern part of the Eastern Wall. A notable seam in the wall reveals Herod’s expansion, which was added to the Hasmonean expansion. This seam clearly shows the change from Hasmonean to Herodian stone styles. The location and configuration of the Hasmonean and Herodian stones indicate that this was once a corner. Additionally, the Herodian stones along the Western Wall section attest to Herod’s expansion on this side. Additionally, on the northern wall of the Temple Mount are holes indicating the location of a former portico. Again, the Eastern Wall of the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform was never altered; it was merely repaired and extended to the southern end. Evidence Inside the Dome of the Rock T he location of the original temples can also be established with certainty. Inside the Dome of the Rock is the highest point of Mt. Moriah. On this massive stone, a cut-out square can be seen that once housed the Ark of the Covenant, and to the sides, the foundations of the Holy of Holies. It should be noted that the altar that David purchased from Arunah the Jebusite was just east of the top of the mountain in a flatter area. Here you can see where the altar would have been located in relation to the rock inside the Dome of the Rock. How Was the Temple Mount Supplied with Water for Sacrifices and Purification Needs? 1. The requirement for living water was only needed for three purposes: (1) defilement by a corpse (Num. 19:17), (2) by a non-routine bodily discharge (Lev. 15:11), or (3) by leprosy (Lev. 14:5, 50). In these instances, part of the purification process requires the use of living water (flows continuously). In all other cases of defilement, purification is accomplished by washing in water, without requiring running water. 2. There were massive cisterns on the Temple Mount (around 37), totaling more than 10.5 million gallons or over 40 million liters of water. Many of these cisterns date to the time of Solomon, Hezekiah, and Zerubbabel. 3. There are around 16 cisterns that are in the original 500-cubit Temple Mount Platform Solomon and Hezekiah built. All these water sources supplied more than enough water for the temple's use. 4. There were other large pools north of the Temple Mount as well. The need for living water was met by nearby pools with living water (for example, the Pools of Bethesda, Siloam, and the Pool of Israel). These three pools alone provided over 54 million gallons, or approximately 205 million liters, of water. 5. A recent discovery close to the southwestern side of the Temple Mount shows a massive cistern that was fed by water from the Tyropean Valley. 6. There were aqueducts from Bethlehem to the Temple Mount that existed in at least 250 BC that supplied living water to the temple. Many archaeologists believe that the aqueducts date back to the time of Solomon. 7. There are 50-plus mikvehs on the southern steps and on the west side of the Temple Mount. The Temple Mount in the Bible 1. The Temple Mount is also called Mount Moriah and was the place where Abraham was to sacrifice his son Isaac to God. Genesis 22:1–2: After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I." 2 He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." 2. King David purchased the original Temple Mount when it was a threshing floor to build an altar to the Lord. 1 Chronicles 21:18: Now the angel of the LORD had commanded Gad to say to David that David should go up and raise an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan [also called Araunah] the Jebusite. 3. King Solomon then built the Temple in this exact location. 2 Chronicles 3:1: Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to David his father, at the place that David had appointed, on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite. 4. During the dedication of Solomon’s temple, the glory of the Lord filled it in such a way that the priests had to suspend their activities until God’s glory subsided. 1 Kings 8:10–11: And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, a cloud filled the house of the LORD, 11 so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD. 5. The prophets spoke to the nation of Israel from the Temple Mount. 6. The first temple was destroyed in 586 BC by Babylon because of Israel’s continued disobedience to God. 2 Kings 24:10: At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up to Jerusalem, and the city was besieged. 7. The temple was rebuilt again from 538-515 BC under Zerubbabel. Ezra 6:3: In the first year of Cyrus the king, Cyrus the king issued a decree: Concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, let the house be rebuilt, the place where sacrifices were offered, and let its foundations be retained. Its height shall be sixty cubits and its breadth sixty cubits. 8. Nehemiah rebuilt the wall of Jerusalem in 444 BC. Nehemiah 2:17: Then I said to them, "You see the trouble we are in, how Jerusalem lies in ruins with its gates burned. Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision. 9. The Temple Mount was enlarged enormously by King Herod in 19 BC to the size it is today. God, in His sovereignty, made the Temple Mount large enough to accommodate the crowds Jesus would teach, the 3,000 saved at Pentecost, the 5,000 saved in Acts 4, and to serve as a place where the Early Church could meet and grow. 10. Herod also made the temple more beautiful than any before it, and it was more than twice the size of the current Dome of the Rock. 11. Zachariah received the vision of having a son, John the Baptist, while serving at the temple. Luke 1:13: But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.” 12. Jesus was dedicated to the Lord at the temple. Luke 2:22: And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. 13. At the age of 12, Jesus appeared and dialogued with the religious leaders at the temple. Luke 2:46–47: After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 14. The temple was where the Devil tempted Christ to throw himself down headlong. Luke 4:9–12: And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, 10 for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,' 11 and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" 12 And Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" 15. Christ taught at the temple frequently. Luke 19:47: And he was teaching daily in the temple. 16. Christ drove out the money changers on the Temple Mount. Mark 11:15–17: And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 16 And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. 17 And he was teaching them and saying to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." 17. Christ was possibly tried before Pilate nearby at Herod's Palace and condemned to crucifixion. 18. Next to the Temple Mount, at the Southern Stairs, is the likely place where Pentecost took place; 3,000 were saved, and the Early Church was born. Acts 2:41: Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. 19. A lame man was healed on the Temple Mount by Peter and John, causing 5,000 men to be saved. Acts 3:1–8: Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. 2 And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. 3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. 4 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, "Look at us." 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. 8 And leaping up he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. Acts 4:4: But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand. 20. The Temple Mount became the meeting place of the Early Church. Acts 2:46–47: And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. 21. Close to the Temple Mount, Stephen was martyred (Acts 7). 22. Because Israel rejected Christ as their Messiah, Jerusalem and the Temple Mount were destroyed in 70 AD by the Romans. Luke 19:41–44: And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, 42 saying, "Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side 44 and tear you down to the ground, you and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time of your visitation. 23. The Antichrist will commit the abomination of desolation on the Temple Mount during the middle of the Tribulation Period. 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4: Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God , displaying himself as being God. 24. Christ will reign from the Temple Mount (along with believers) for 1,000 years after the Tribulation Period. Revelation 20:6: Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years. Faith Lesson from the Temple Mount 1. In the Old Testament, the temple was a focal place where God dwelt; in the New Testament, believers are now the temple in which God dwells. 1 Corinthians 3:16–17: Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple. 2. What kind of temple are we?

Mount Arbel, by the Sea of Galilee, is the most likely place Jesus gave the Great Commission to go into all the world and preach the Gospel. Magdala, Gennesaret (Ginasor), Place where Christ called several of His disciples, Chorazin, Tabgha - The likely place Christ restored Peter to ministry, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Bethsaida Lookout, Feeding the 5,000, Feeding the 4,000, Kursi, Horvat Susita, Place Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea. Mt. Arbel Photo Gallery Places of Interest Mount Arbel Introduction Welcome to Mount Arbel. This is a significant site in the Bible where one of the most important events occurred. 1. It's the believed place where Christ gave the Great Commission and provided the perfect view of the area where Jesus and His disciples served for 3 1/2 years. 2. It has a breathtaking view of the Sea of Galilee, where you can see all the major sites around it. 3. Christ spent around 60 to 70% of His ministry time around its northern shore. Location 1. Mount Arbel is located on the west side of the Sea of Galilee and is the tallest mountain around it. 2. It has a spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee, which is about 8 miles (12 km) wide and about 13 miles (21 km) long. 3. It rises about 1,200 ft (365 m) above the Sea of Galilee. 4. It has on its eastern side a cliff that drops right down to the Sea of Galilee basin. 5. This cliff has many natural caves that have been used throughout history for battles and protection purposes. Historical Background 1. History and tradition locate Mount Arbel as the place where Christ gave the Great Commission mandate to go into all the world and preach the gospel. 2. Many theologians believe this is the place because it is the tallest mountain in the area and provides a perfect view of the Sea of Galilee. 3. Because Christ spent around 60% to 70% of His ministry time around the Sea of Galilee, Mount Arbel would have provided the perfect backdrop as Christ gave His disciples the powerful Great Commission mandate. From this location, we can easily see the following: Magdala Gennesaret (Ginosar) The area where Christ likely called several of His disciples. Chorazin Tabgha - The likely place Christ restored Peter to ministry. Mount of Beatitudes Capernaum Bethsaida Bethsaida Lookout Feeding the 5,000 Feeding the 4,000 Kursi Horvat Susita Place where Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea. 4. The Great Commission was one of the last commands Christ gave to His disciples, which shows its importance. 5. The cliffs of Mount Arbel have natural caves that have been used as shelters for rebels against Herod the Great, revolts against the Romans, and later periods. The ruins of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages lie below the cliffs to the north. Places of Interest (Please See Maps Above) 1. Park Entrance 2. Lookout Location 3. Arbel Cliffs 4. Magdala 5. Sea of Galilee 6. Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages that lie below the cliffs. 7. Ancient Synagogue 8. Fortress 9. Hiking Trail Mount Arbel in the Bible 1. Mount Arbel is the believed place where Christ gave the Great Commission. Matthew 28:16-20: Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” 2. What does the phrase “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” mean? Colossians 1:15–17: He [Christ] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation [ The Greek word for “firstborn” is proto-tikto which would give us the meaning of “pre-eminence,” and that is what we find here in Colossians 1:15. The Greek word for “first created” would be protoktizo, and it is not used here]. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him, all things hold together. Christ is the image of the invisible God. He is God in the flesh, so we can understand and know Him better. Christ created all things in heaven and on earth. He created all thrones, dominions, rulers, authorities, and rules over them. He is the head of all things. All of creation is held together and sustained by His power. 3. During Christ’s ministry on earth, He performed every class of miracle to show He was Lord of every aspect of creation. Sickness – Christ healed every kind of sickness among countless people. Demons and the demonic world – Christ repeatedly cast out demons from many people. Weather – Christ calmed the sea and storms. Nature – Christ cursed a fig tree, and it died. Animals – Christ cast out demons into a herd of swine, He performed the miraculous catches of fish, and He rode into Jerusalem on an untamed donkey. Food – Christ fed 5,000 and 4,000 people. The authority to forgive sins. Only God has this authority, so Christ showed Himself as being fully God. Death – Christ raised numerous people from the dead, and He Himself rose from the dead. 4. Every knee in heaven and earth will bow before the authority of Christ. Philippians 2:9–11: Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 5. Based upon the authority that Christ possesses, He commands us to go and make disciples. Matthew 28:19–20: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. Faith Lesson from Mount Arbel 1. All authority in heaven and earth has been given to Christ. Do we truly believe this? 2. We are all called to be missionaries. Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. 3. Missionary means “Sent One.” 4. Most missionary work is done locally in our own Jerusalem, as most are not called to foreign missions. 5. Just because we are not foreign missionaries does not mean we aren’t missionaries at our local level. 6. Making disciples entails evangelizing. 7. In supporting foreign missions, there are a few ways we can be involved: We can be goers. We can be supporters by providing financial help. We can be encouragers to those in the field. We can be helpers when missionaries return from the field and need help back home. We can be prayer supporters. Am I involved in foreign missions in at least one of the above ways? 8. In fulfilling the Great Commission, it’s not enough to be a good person and hope our lives will show others we’re different. We are commanded to go and speak! 9. While baptism does not save us, we are to emphasize it and baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Have I been baptized, and do I encourage others to be baptized as well? 10. We are to teach others to obey all that Christ has commanded. Am I involved in doing this? 11. We have the promise that the one who has all authority in heaven and on earth will be with us as we go to evangelize and make disciples. We should realize that: We are not alone in fulfilling the Great Commission; Christ is present and supernaturally helping us. We have all the power and authority necessary in Christ, our helper, so we don’t need to fear any demonic or contrary force. 12. Do I realize Christ is with me in every aspect as I strive to fulfill the Great Commission?

If you want an in-depth Bible-centered trip and see more holy sites in Israel than other tours, then this trip is designed for you. Holy Land Trips Final Payment Secure Payment Link Holy Land Trip Final Payment To complete your final deposit payment, please send $1,950 by credit card, PayPal, or check. Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by credit card or PayPal, a 4% fee is added to your total amount due to fees charged by the credit card and PayPal providers. If paying by credit card or PayPal, click the button below. PayPal does not require you to create a PayPal account to use your credit card. $1,950.00 Final Payment Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by check, please send your check to the following address: Holy Land Site (Make checks payable to: Holy Land Site) 6945 Burnett St., SE Salem, OR, 97317-5202 (Using regular mail is preferred as there's not always someone available to sign for certified mail).

If you want an in-depth Bible-centered trip and see more holy sites in Israel than other tours, then this trip is designed for you. Holy Land Trips Final Payment Secure Payment Link Holy Land Trip Final Payment To complete your final deposit payment, please send your payment of $1,750 by either credit card, PayPal, or check. Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by credit card or PayPal, a 4% fee is added to your total amount due to fees charged by the credit card and PayPal providers. If paying by credit card or PayPal, click the button below. PayPal does not require you to create a PayPal account to use your credit card. $1,750.00 Final Payment Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by check, please send your check to the following address: Holy Land Site (Make checks payable to: Holy Land Site) 6945 Burnett St., SE Salem, OR, 97317-5202 (Using regular mail is preferred as there's not always someone available to sign for certified mail).

The church of Dominus Flevit marks the place where Jesus wept over Jerusalem as He entered it on Palm Sunday at His famous, Triumphal Entry from the Mount of Olives. See everything you want to know about this historical event. Dominus Flevit Church Photo Gallery Places of Interest Dominus Flevit Church Introduction Dominus Flevit Church stands on the Triumphal Entry Path, where Jesus stopped and wept over Jerusalem. 1. He wept over Jerusalem because they would reject Him, and as a result, destruction would come upon them. 2. The church is shaped like a large teardrop. This is so, as it represents the tears Jesus wept over Jerusalem. 3. There are only two times in the Bible when Jesus wept. This is one of them. 4. Let's experience and explore this meaningful site. Location 1. Dominus Flevit (Latin for "the Lord wept") is a Roman Catholic church on the Mount of Olives, opposite the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem in Israel. 2. It's located halfway down the western slope of the Mount of Olives just across from the Temple Mount and Old City Jerusalem. It marks the place where Jesus wept over Jerusalem's future fate. 3. The Triumphal Entry begins at the upper part of the Mount of Olives and winds its way down to the bottom of the mountain to the Garden of Gethsemane. Historical Background 1. The present church (finished in 1955) was built upon the foundations of an earlier Byzantine church from the 5th century, which, like most churches, faced east. 2. During the Crusader era (1099-1291 AD), people began commemorating the location. 3. After the fall of Jerusalem in 1187, the church fell into ruin. 4. Around 1525 AD, the Turks claimed to have built a mosque or madrasah using the remains of the earlier church. 5. For quite some time, the Franciscans could not obtain the ruins of the original Dominus Flevit Church. In 1891, they solved this problem by buying a nearby plot of land and building a small chapel on it. 6. In 1913, a private home was built in front of the Franciscan chapel. The home was given to the Sisters of Saint Joseph, although they eventually sold it to a Portuguese woman. While building the boundary wall of this private home, workers found the remains of ancient tombs. The site was then thoroughly excavated from 1953 to 1955. 7. During the sanctuary's construction, archaeologists uncovered artifacts dating back to the Canaanite period, as well as tombs from the Second Temple and Byzantine eras. 8. Other artifacts found were a tomb from the Bronze Age and a necropolis (building used to encase tombs) dating from 136 BC to 300 AD. This particular necropolis spanned two different periods, as suggested by the two very different tomb styles. The Second Temple-era tombs are in the Koki style, and the Byzantine-period tombs include an arcosolium from the 4th century. 9. In 1940, the Benedictine Sisters sold part of the property to the Franciscans. At this time, they moved the old boundary wall to mark the division. In 1953, the Franciscans began construction of another wall. While digging the foundations, workers unearthed ancient tombs. 10. The modern church, designed by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi and constructed between 1953 and 1955, is held in trust by the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land. Places of Interest 1. Triumphal Entry Path 2. Entrance to Dominus Flevit Church Property 3. Just after entering the church property, to the right are ancient burial caves with different kinds of tombs. This is also called a N ecropolis, a place where tombs are buried. The first type of tomb is a slab with an arch. This was a common tomb style during Christ's time. It was used for wealthier people. The second tomb style is an open shaft, used for middle-class people. Lower-class people were just buried in the ground with little or no markers. During this time period, the bones would be gathered for a second burial after about a year (when the bodies had decomposed) and placed in boxes called "Ossuaries." 4. Outside the Modern Church The Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi designed the church, and it was constructed between 1953 and 1955. The Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land holds it in trust. It is shaped like a tear. Signifying Christ weeping over Jerusalem because of the future destruction He knew would come because the city would reject Him as their Messiah. It has four jars in the upper corners to hold tears, which was common in Jesus's time. A tear bottle is a small glass bottle that represents sorrow, as described in the Bible. People used tear bottles to capture an individual’s tears during moments of grief as a sign of mourning or repentance. The bottles on this church represent the tears Jesus shed over Jerusalem. The Bible says that one day, God will wipe away all our tears: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4). 5. Pillars from the Crusader Period These pillars were part of a Crusader Church from around 1150 AD, built over the ruins of the original Byzantine Church. 6. Mosaic from the Byzantine Church Just to the left of the modern church is a Byzantine mosaic floor, dating back to the beginning of the 4th or 5th century AD. Ribbons and wave motifs surround the floor. The center of the carpet is divided by squares containing round frames. The circles contain fruit, vegetables, flowers, and fish. The motifs reflect agriculture's importance in Jerusalem's Byzantine era. Parts of the mosaic can also be seen inside the modern church building, featuring a limestone slab with a large cross at its center. 7. Inside the Modern Church Apse of the Byzantine Church — After entering the modern church, you can see the original apse (the semi-circular area marking the front of a church). The original Byzantine church faced east, as did all churches during this era. Some of the mosaic floors from this church have been preserved. A cross from this period appears at the center of the floor. Ceiling—The ceiling is covered with gold. This color represents heavenly tears, namely, those of Jesus as He wept for Jerusalem, knowing its coming destruction. Four carved reliefs on the sides of the ceiling show the (1) Triumphal Entry, (2) the destruction of Jerusalem, (3) Mary, the mother of Jesus, and other women, and (4) Peter, James, and John, disciples of Jesus. The western window of the Dominus Flevit Church provides a beautiful view of the Temple Mount. A mosaic on the altar of the Dominus Flevit Church illustrates a hen gathering her chickens, according to Luke 13:34: O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, just as a hen gathers her brood under her wings , and you would not have it! 8. Crown of Thorns Tree Right in front of the modern church is a tree with huge thorns. The crown of thorns was most likely made from a tree like this and placed on Jesus' head. 9. Location Where the Ashes of the Red Heifer Were Offered Some believe the ashes of the Red Heifer were offered in this area. It was right across from the Temple and fits the biblical description. Numbers 19:1-3: Now the Lord spoke to Moses and to Aaron, saying, 2 “This is the statute of the law that the Lord has commanded: Tell the people of Israel to bring you a red heifer without defect, in which there is no blemish, and on which a yoke has never come. 3 And you shall give it to Eleazar the priest, and it shall be taken outside the camp and slaughtered before him. 10. Winepress While the Mount of Olives consisted mainly of olive trees, it also had vineyards. Just below the church to the north is an ancient winepress used to process grapes. People would crush the grapes in a large pit (barefoot so they wouldn't crush the seeds and make the wine bitter), and the juice would flow by gravity into wine barrels. 11. Bethphage (beginning point of the Triumphal Entry) 12. Mount of Olives 13. Garden of Gethsemane 14. Temple Mount 15. Kidron Valley Triumphal Entry Background 1. The Triumphal Entry was a major event in the life of Jesus wherein He entered Jerusalem on the Sunday before He would be crucified and rise from the dead the following Sunday. 2. Christ designed this event to broadcast to the Nation of Israel that He was their Passover Lamb. 3. It is also called Palm Sunday because palm branches were laid on the road as Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. 4. It would mark Christ’s last days of intensive teaching and condemnation of the Jews for rejecting Him and His message. 5. It would begin Christ’s last week on earth. Triumphal Entry in the Bible 1. The Triumphal Entry was prophesied in the Old Testament. Some 450–500 years earlier, the Prophet Zechariah prophesied: "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey” ( Zech. 9:9). 2. The Triumphal Entry was fulfilled in the New Testament. Matthew 21:7–9: They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their clothes on them, and set Him on them. 8 And a very great multitude spread their clothes on the road; others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’ Hosanna in the highest!” 3. Palm Sunday was also the fulfillment of the Prophet Daniel's "seventy-sevens" prophecy. Daniel 9:25: Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the command to restore and build Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince, there shall be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublesome times. 4. The Triumphal Entry, which occurred on the Sunday before the Passover, was also the day of the lamb selection for the Passover. According to Exodus 12, this was the day each Israelite family set aside to choose the lamb they would kill for their Passover meal. The blood from their lamb was to be put on the doorposts of their homes so the angel of death would not kill their firstborn children. The Passover was celebrated each year to commemorate their deliverance from Egypt and to acknowledge God's miraculous salvation. The fact that Christ entered Jerusalem on this very day was no accident. He was proclaiming Himself as the Passover Lamb, not only for the Israelites but for all humanity. 5. Christ entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. Luke 19:28–35: And when he had said these things, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 When he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount that is called Olivet, he sent two of the disciples, 30 saying, "Go into the village in front of you, where on entering you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever yet sat. Untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' you shall say this: 'The Lord has need of it.'" 32 So those who were sent went away and found it just as he had told them. 33 And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, "Why are you untying the colt?" 34 And they said, "The Lord has need of it." 35 And they brought it to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. The meaning of a donkey. A donkey symbolized peace; a horse symbolized war. Christ came to make peace with mankind at His first coming by dying for our sins. However, at His second coming, He will come riding a horse to wage war with mankind and judge them for their sinful rejection of Him. 6. The crowd took branches of palm trees and cried out, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” John 12:12–13: So, they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" The meaning of the palm branches. It was a cry for deliverance from Roman occupation. The last time the Israelites had freedom was during Maccabean rule (167–63 BC); their money bore the symbol of a palm branch as a sign of freedom. It was like a country's national flag. It was the Jews’ way of saying that they wanted Christ to be their King and deliver them from the Romans.The meaning of the palm branches. 7. At the place marked by the church, Dominus Flevit, Christ paused and wept over Jerusalem. Luke 19:41–44: And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, 42 saying, "Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side 44 and tear you down to the ground, you and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time of your visitation." The Bible notes only two times when Christ wept. The first time was at the death of Lazarus, and the second during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Both places are located on the Mount of Olives. In this account of Christ weeping, He wept for those who aren’t saved and the judgment that awaits them. Within 40 years, in AD 70, Jesus’ prophecy was fulfilled. Roman legions besieged Jerusalem and, after six months of fighting, burnt the temple and leveled the city. 8. The first time Christ wept took place at the death of Lazarus, just a week or so earlier on the backside of the Mount of Olives. J ohn 11:33–36: When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. 34 And he said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to him, "Lord, come and see." 35 Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, "See how he loved him!" In this account, Christ weeps for those who suffer. Faith Lesson 1. The Triumphal Entry was a prophesied event from the Old Testament and reveals the validity of Scripture and God’s sovereignty. 2. Christ wept over Jerusalem because of their rejection of Him and the judgment that would await them as a result. Does Christ weep for you because you don’t know Him and will be separated from Him in hell for all eternity? 3. Christ wept with those at the death of Lazarus. Does Christ weep with you as He understands your pain and suffering?

The Upper Room is in a second-story building in Jerusalem that commemorates where Jesus shared the Passover (Last Supper) with His disciples. This building became a synagogue church in the first century by early Christians. On the first floor of the building is King David’s Tomb. The location of David's Tomb is just a memorial place as Scripture says David was buried in the City of David (1 Kings 2:10). Jesus ate the Passover with His disciples in the Upper Room. The Upper Room Photo Gallery Places of Interest The Upper Room Introduction Welcome to this biblical site of the Upper Room. We are located just outside the Old City of Jerusalem, in what's today known as Mount Zion. 1. What is really fascinating about this place is that it undoubtedly marks the place of the Upper Room. 2. At the base of this building are ancient stones from the first Judeo/Christian Synagogue that was built here shortly after the time of Jesus. 3. At the front of it is a Torah Niche that faces Golgotha, where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located today. 4. The first floor of this building presently functions as a synagogue, and the tomb of David is there. However, it appears to be an empty casket, as Scripture says David was buried in the City of David. 5. The upper floor of this building is where the Upper Room was located. 6. This site has six layers of archaeology that reveal it's the authentic location of the Upper Room. We'll talk about them shortly. 7. It was here that Jesus ate the Passover with His disciples. 8. After Christ ascended back to heaven, the disciples went to the Upper Room, which was most likely their living quarters, while they stayed in Jerusalem. 9. The Upper Room is the likely place Christ appeared to His disciples after His resurrection. 10. It’s possible that the Upper Room is where Matthias was chosen to replace Judas. 11. Some believe it’s also where Pentecost happened or began. We'll talk about this in a bit. 12. Let's explore this site and experience the monumental events that happened here. Location 1. The Upper Room is in a second-story building in Jerusalem that commemorates where Jesus shared the Passover (Last Supper) with His disciples. 2. It is located directly above the Tomb of David and near the Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion. 3. It is also called the Cenacle Room, which means “dining room” in Latin. 4. On the first floor of the building is King David’s Tomb. It functions as a synagogue, so men must wear a head covering. It is divided into three sections: (1) a small synagogue room, (2) a men’s viewing area of David’s tomb, and (3) a women’s viewing area of the tomb. 5. The location of David's Tomb is just a memorial place, as Scripture says David was buried in the City of David (1 Kings 2:10). Six Layers of Archaeological Evidence This building became a synagogue-church in the first century, used by early Christians. There is archaeological evidence of six construction layers in this building today. 1. Upper Room ~ 30 AD Early Roman floor discoveries. 2. Judeo-Christian Church Layer ~ 80-132 AD A Torah Ark niche with large stones. Writings on the plastered walls of this church, analyzed, reveal the following information about the site: "Conquer, O Savior, Mercy" and "Oh Jesus, that I may live." Eusebius (260-340 AD) describes a " Large church of Christ in Jerusalem which the Jews constructed." Epiphanius (315-405) writes, "A small church of God marking the Upper Room to which the disciples returned from the Mount of Olives after the Lord had been taken up." 3. Church of the Apostles ~ 200 AD 4. Byzantine Layer with an octagonal church in front of it ~ 382 AD. The Church of St. Pudenziana in Rome has a mural showing this Judeo-Christian Church. 5. Hagia Sion Church ~ 415 AD 6. Crusader Period ~ 1219 AD. The present layer is from the Crusader Period. Whenever you have one thing built on top of another, it provides strong evidence that this was the authentic location of the Upper Room. Historical Background 1. After Christ rose from the dead, this place was venerated and converted into a Jewish-Christian synagogue. Evidence of this can be found in the massive stones in the Torah Ark Niche of the church on the first floor. 2. It was built by the first-century Jewish-Christian community of Jerusalem. Interestingly, unlike all other Jewish synagogues, the Torah Ark Niche points toward Golgotha (the Church of the Holy Sepulchre) rather than toward the Temple . 3. This site of the Upper Room has been the traditional place of the Last Supper since the time of Jesus. 4. In the 5th century AD, the church was referred to as "Zion, Mother of all the Churches.” 5. Then, in the year 1009 AD, this church was destroyed again by an Egyptian Muslim Caliph named Al Hakim. 6. The Crusaders built the Upper Room that pilgrims visit today in the 12th century as part of the Church of St. Mary of Zion. The Gothic columns seen today date back to this era. 7. The buildings around the Upper Room are remains of a Franciscan medieval friary from around 1335. 8. The Upper Room was transformed into a mosque by the Ottomans in 1524, and a prayer niche is embedded on the south wall, directed toward the Islamic cities of Mecca and Medina. 9. The State of Israel Ministry of the Interior currently manages the Upper Room building. 10. It’s very likely that the Upper Room was used for more than the Passover meal. It was also used as a general meeting place for the early disciples. It could also have been the location where Christ appeared to His disciples after His resurrection, where Matthias was appointed as the apostle to replace Judas, and where the disciples stayed while waiting for Pentecost. 11. Some believe it’s also where Pentecost happened or began. However, as we will see below, the best evidence, both biblical and logistical, suggests that the southern part of the Temple Mount Platform is where Pentecost took place. 12. It seems logical that all these events shared the same Upper Room, as the man who allowed Christ to use his large room for the Passover meal was probably a follower of Christ who continued to allow the disciples to use it. Places of Interest 1. The Upper Room First Floor King David’s Tomb ~ This is just a memorial place, as Scripture says David was buried in the City of David (1 Kings 2:10). Modern-day synagogue Torah Ark Niche Large stones in the Torah Ark Niche of the Judeo-Christian Church Large stones from the walls of the Judeo-Christian Church 2. The Upper Room Second Floor Crusader remains. This bronze sculpture of an olive tree was donated to the Upper Room by Pope John Paul II. It symbolizes peace between the three major religions in Jerusalem – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Intertwined on this tree are both grapevines and wheat stalks, symbolizing the wine and the bread that Jesus served to His disciples at the Last Supper. A sculpted group of pelicans on a pillar in the southwest corner of the Upper Room shows three pelicans carved in stone. In this scene, a mother bird with her babies standing on her left and right is picking her heart, eating her flesh, and drinking her blood. This symbolizes Jesus and his sacrifice to his disciples at the Last Supper, as found in Matthew 26:27-28: And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; 28 for this is My blood of the covenant, which is being poured out for many for forgiveness of sins. Mihrab ~ In 1524 AD, the Ottoman Empire, a Muslim power, converted this room into a mosque. This is evidenced by the mihrab they built in the southern wall of this room. A mihrab is a prayer niche that always faces Mecca in Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Muhammad, and it indicates the direction Muslim worshippers should pray. Two stained glass windows on the south wall date back to the Ottoman Muslim period (1524 AD). A plaque on the wall, known as the Basmala. It is written in Arabic, and it says, “In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful.” The Arabic Data Stone ~ This is written in Arabic, and it is a slur against Christians, whom it calls polytheists (because they believe in the Trinity). More than half of this text praises and blesses Suleman the Magnificent, the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1520 until he died in 1566. 3. Viewing Platform Above the Upper Room 4. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 5. Temple Mount Southern Stairs 6. Royal Stoa 7. Mount Zion 8. Temple Mount 9. Zion Gate 10. City of David 11. Garden of Gethsemane 12. Mount of Olives Why Pentecost Most Likely Happened on the Temple Mount Many believe Pentecost occurred in or around the Upper Room. However, the best evidence suggests that it most likely happened on the Temple Mount, near the Royal Stoa. 1. What does the Bible say? Acts 2:1–6: When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house [structure] where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together , and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 2. Scripture says the coming of the Holy Spirit filled a house. It doesn’t say or mention anything about the Upper Room. 3. What does "house" mean in Hebrew? The Hebrew word for "house" in Acts 2:2 is "Har Ha Bait," which means "the mountain of THE HOUSE," or "the dwelling place of God." This meaning would support the idea that Pentecost most likely took place on the Temple Mount. While Acts 2:2 states that the sound of wind filled the whole “house,” Jesus refers to the Temple with the term “house” four times (John 2:16, 17; Matthew 21:13; Mark 11:17; Luke 19:46). In Acts 5:21, Luke refers to a prison as a “house.” Additionally, the Temple is often referred to as a house in the Old Testament. John 2:17: The Zeal for your house will consume me. Matthew 21:12-13: And Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all those who were selling and buying on the temple grounds, and He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves. 13 And He said to them, “It is written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer’; but you are making it a den of robbers.” "House" can also refer to just a covered area. The Royal Stoa fits this description. On the southern end of the Temple Mount, just above the Southern Stairs, was the Royal Stoa . It was a massive public meeting place with a large, roofed area. It aligns with what the Bible says about the location of Pentecost. 4. Three thousand were baptized after hearing Peter's message. Acts 2:41: So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. For 3,000 to be saved, a crowd of at least 30,000, up to 150,000 would likely have assembled. The Jewish historian Josephus, along with others, estimates that hundreds of thousands gathered in Jerusalem during the holy feasts. This large multitude could not fit in or around the Upper Room. 5. The Upper Room could only accommodate about 150 people. The massive crowd that gathered, along with the 3,000 baptized, could not have fit in the Upper Room or the surrounding area. Peter addressed "All who dwelt in Jerusalem ." Acts 2:14: But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “ Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem , let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. Peter addressed a multitude of people. Acts 2:6: And at this sound the multitude came together , and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. The Upper Room was in a densely populated residential area of Jerusalem. It had narrow streets and many buildings. A multitude couldn't gather in this area, as the narrow streets and buildings would have made it virtually impossible. Due to the narrow streets and buildings surrounding the Upper Room, Peter could have preached to only a few hundred people at best. 6. There was no reason for a multitude of people to be in the residential area by the Upper Room. The Upper Room is a long way from central Jerusalem. It was not in a public interest area. The Temple Mount was the center of public activity, especially during the holy feasts. 7. There were many Mikvehs (baptismal pools) around the Temple Mount. There are approximately 75 mikvehs near the Temple Mount, along with the Pools of Bethesda and the Pool of Siloam, where those who were ritually clean could be baptized. There were no public mikvehs around the Upper Room area. The Upper Room is situated in the southwest corner of Jerusalem, approximately 0.51 miles (0.83 km) from the Temple Mount, a considerable distance away. Most likely too far away for a large crowd to travel for baptisms and similar events. 8. The coming of the Holy Spirit happened at nine in the morning, which was the time of morning prayers at the Temple. The disciples frequently visited the Temple for prayer. Acts 2:15: For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour [9:00 am] of the day . Acts 3:1: Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. Therefore, the apostles and disciples were most likely on the Temple Mount when Pentecost happened. 9. The southern part of the Temple Mount would have been a natural place for Pentecost to occur, as it was the center of public activities in Jerusalem. The Southern Stairs and Robinson's Arch entrance were massive, serving as the main entrances to the Temple Mount. These entrances would naturally serve as gathering places. 10. The Temple Mount and Royal Stoa area could easily have handled the large crowd of 150,000 gathered at Pentecost. At Passover, the Temple Mount was jammed with tens of thousands of pilgrims from 15 countries, speaking multiple languages. The description in Acts chapter two clearly indicates that the miracle of Pentecost was witnessed by people who spoke various languages. This event could have occurred only on the Temple Mount, where pilgrims from around the world had gathered for the feast. Crowds speaking multiple languages would not have gathered around the Upper Room, which was a long distance from the center of activity on the Temple Mount. The Royal Stoa would have provided open access, allowing people in the building to be easily seen and heard from outside the colonnade. The apostles were then immediately accessible to thousands of Jews gathered for the festival in a large public facility. 11. The Temple Mount platform was the only place in Jerusalem during the time of Pentecost that could have accommodated a multitude of 150,000 people. It was the size of 35 professional football fields, big enough to handle over 150,000 people. Therefore, the Temple Mount platform is the best candidate for the site of Pentecost, specifically its southern part by the Royal Stoa. The Upper Room in the Bible 1. Jesus ate the Passover with His disciples in the Upper Room. Luke 22:11–13: And tell the master of the house, “The Teacher says to you, ‘Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ 12 And he will show you a large upper room furnished; prepare it there.” 13 And they went and found it just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover. 2. After Christ ascended back to heaven, the disciples went to the Upper Room, which was most likely their living quarters, while they stayed in Jerusalem. Acts 1:13–14: And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying , Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. 3. The Upper Room is the likely place Christ appeared to His disciples after His resurrection. John 20:19: On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 4. It’s very likely that the Upper Room is where Matthias was chosen to replace Judas. Acts 1:15–16: In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (the company of persons was in all about 120) and said, 16 “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. Acts 1:26: And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias , and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. 5. Some believe it’s also where Pentecost happened or began. However, as we have already seen, the best evidence, both biblical and logistical, suggests that the southern part of the Temple Mount Platform is where Pentecost took place. The Upper Room and Passover in the Bible 1. The meaning of the Passover. The Passover was a celebration that the Israelites observed each year in remembrance of their deliverance from Egypt as slaves. The last miracle performed by God was the killing of the firstborn of all people and animals. He gave a command to the Israelites, and to the Egyptians as well, to kill a lamb and put its blood on the doorposts and door lintels of their houses. In so doing, God would pass over that home and save those inside. Christ's crucifixion during the Passover was a fulfillment of this covenant act. In the New Covenant, Christ is our Passover Lamb whose blood saves us from death and sin. 2. The Passover meal began with Jesus washing the disciples’ feet. John 13:1–5: Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. 2 During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 3. Christ taught about true love and servanthood. John 13:12–16: When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 4. Christ instituted the New Covenant at the Passover meal. Matthew 26:26–29: Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, 28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.” 5. The meaning of the bread. The bread represents Christ’s body, which was broken and crucified for our sins. It speaks of the unleavened bread made for the Israelites' rapid departure from Egypt. It also represents the Israelite’s utter dependence on God for their sustenance during their time in the desert, and beyond. Christ referred to Himself as the Bread of Life and the True Manna from heaven. Christ now becomes our unleavened bread and sustenance. 6. The meaning of the cup. The cup represents the blood of Christ that was shed on the cross for the payment and forgiveness of our sins. The blood being poured out is synonymous with Christ being crucified and shedding His blood. There is also wedding imagery that is used in the taking of the cup. Receiving the cup was used to confirm an Israelite marriage, much as our modern-day ring vows do. When we receive the cup, we are confirming our marriage to Christ. Faith Lesson from the Upper Room 1. Christ gave a humbling example of true servanthood by washing the disciples’ feet. What kind of a servant am I? 2. Christ introduced the New Covenant at the Passover meal. Do I understand the meaning of the bread and the cup? 3. Is Christ my sacrificial Passover Lamb, or am I separated from God and in danger of His judgment?

Gilgal became a central meeting place throughout the rest of the Old Testament and appears to have been a small city or community. Camp Gilgal is the first place the Israelites camped after crossing the Jordan River and entering the Promised Land. At Camp Gilgal, Joshua erected 12 stones taken from the Jordan River as a monument of remembrance. Camp Gilgal was the first place the Israelites celebrated the Passover after entering the Promised Land. Gilgal Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gilgal Location There are two locations for Gilgal. 1. Tel Gilgal is situated in the Jordan Valley plain at the place of the modern city of Gilgal, which is located about 8 miles (12 km.) north of Jericho on Hwy. 90. 2. Camp Gilgal is located on the eastern edge of Jericho on Hwy. 90. Historical Background 1. The late Professor Adam Zertal (University of Haifa), did much research on the biblical location of Gilgal and discovered that it’s possible it wasn’t necessarily a specific location but a common name for a camp or religious site in its early period. 2. In Zertal’s research, he discovered 5 potential sites where the Israelites could have camped after crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land. Each place is uniquely shaped like a human right footprint. This is likely attributed to the promise given to them in Deuteronomy 11:24: Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours; your border will be from the wilderness to Lebanon, and from the river, the river Euphrates, as far as the western sea. 3. Joshua 4:19, places Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho: Now the people came up from the Jordan on the tenth of the first month and camped at Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho . The place of Tel Gilgal (modern-day Gilgal) doesn’t seem to fit the qualifications found in Joshua 4:19. 4. If Zertal’s claims are true, then it’s possible Tel Gilgal (located at modern Gilgal) was the more permanent Gilgal that is referred to 35 times in Scripture, and the place on the eastern edge of Jericho was a temporary place where the Israelites camped. This seems reasonable as there are no remains of a permanent city on the eastern edge of Jericho. 5. Tel Gilgal became a central meeting place throughout the rest of the Old Testament and appears to have been a small city. Places of Interest 1. Tel Gilgal 2. Tower 3. Heel part of the footprint shape of Tel Gilgal. 4. Center part of the footprint shape of Tel Gilgal. 5. Tabernacle 6. 12 Stone Monument (it appears it was moved from Camp Gilgal to Tel Gilgal as a permanent monument at a later date). 7. Altar 8. Toe part of the footprint shape of Tel Gilgal. 9. Modern Gilgal 10. Jericho 11. Jordan River 12. Camp Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho. Gilgal in the Bible 1. Camp Gilgal is the first place the Israelites camped after crossing the Jordan River and entering the Promised Land. Joshua 4:19: Now the people came up from the Jordan on the tenth of the first month and camped at Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho. 2. At Camp Gilgal, Joshua erected 12 stones taken from the Jordan River as a monument of remembrance. Joshua 4:18–20: It came about when the priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord had come up from the middle of the Jordan, and the soles of the priests’ feet were lifted up to the dry ground, that the waters of the Jordan returned to their place, and went over all its banks as before. 19 Now the people came up from the Jordan on the tenth of the first month and camped at Gilgal on the eastern edge of Jericho. 20 Those twelve stones which they had taken from the Jordan, Joshua set up at Gilgal. 21 He said to the sons of Israel, “When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, ‘What are these stones?’ 22 then you shall inform your children, saying, ‘Israel crossed this Jordan on dry ground.’ 23 For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed, just as the Lord your God had done to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed; 24 that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the Lord is mighty, so that you may fear the Lord your God forever.” 3. Camp Gilgal was the first place the Israelites celebrated the Passover after entering the Promised Land. Joshua 5:10: While the sons of Israel camped at Gilgal , they observed the Passover on the evening of the fourteenth day of the month on the desert plains of Jericho. 4. It was at Gilgal that the Gibeonites tricked the Israelites into making a covenant with them so they wouldn’t be destroyed. Joshua 9:3–6: When the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and to Ai, 4 they also acted craftily and set out as envoys, and took worn-out sacks on their donkeys, and wineskins worn-out and torn and mended, 5 and worn-out and patched sandals on their feet, and worn-out clothes on themselves; and all the bread of their provision was dry and had become crumbled. 6 They went to Joshua to the camp at Gilgal and said to him and to the men of Israel, “We have come from a far country; now, therefore, make a covenant with us.” 5. Gilgal was the place from which Caleb, one of the two faithful spies Moses sent to spy out the Promised Land, asked Joshua for his portion of the land. Joshua 14:6–9: Then the sons of Judah drew near to Joshua in Gilgal , and Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, “You know the word which the Lord spoke to Moses the man of God concerning you and me in Kadesh-barnea. 7 I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to spy out the land, and I brought word back to him as it was in my heart. 8 Nevertheless, my brethren who went up with me made the heart of the people melt with fear; but I followed the Lord my God fully.” 9 So Moses swore on that day, saying, “Surely the land on which your foot has trodden will be an inheritance to you and to your children forever, because you have followed the Lord my God fully.” Joshua 14:13: So Joshua blessed him and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 6. The Prophet Samuel visited and taught the Word of God regularly at Tel Gilgal. 1 Samuel 7:15–16: Now Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life. 16 He used to go annually on circuit to Bethel and Gilgal and Mizpah, and he judged Israel in all these places. 7. Saul, the first king of Israel, was made king at Tel Gilgal. 1 Samuel 11:14–15: Then Samuel said to the people, “Come and let us go to Gilgal and renew the kingdom there.” 15 So all the people went to Gilgal , and there they made Saul king before the Lord in Gilgal . There they also offered sacrifices of peace offerings before the Lord; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly. 8. Tel Gilgal was a central gathering place for the Israelites. 1 Samuel 13:4: All Israel heard the news that Saul had smitten the garrison of the Philistines, and also that Israel had become odious to the Philistines. The people were then summoned to Saul at Gilgal . 9. King Saul’s reign over Israel came to an end at Tel Gilgal because of his disobedience. 1 Samuel 13:8–14: Now he waited seven days, according to the appointed time set by Samuel, but Samuel did not come to Gilgal ; and the people were scattering from him. 9 So Saul said, “Bring to me the burnt offering and the peace offerings.” And he offered the burnt offering. 10 As soon as he finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him and to greet him. 11 But Samuel said, “What have you done?” And Saul said, “Because I saw that the people were scattering from me, and that you did not come within the appointed days, and that the Philistines were assembling at Michmash, 12 therefore I said, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not asked the favor of the Lord.’ So I forced myself and offered the burnt offering.” 13 Samuel said to Saul, “You have acted foolishly; you have not kept the commandment of the Lord your God, which He commanded you, for now the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. 14 But now your kingdom shall not endure. The Lord has sought out for Himself a man after His own heart, and the Lord has appointed him as ruler over His people, because you have not kept what the Lord commanded you.” 10. God pronounced judgment upon Israel at Tel Gilgal because of their disobedience to Him. Hosea 9:15: All their evil is at Gilgal ; Indeed, I came to hate them there! Because of the wickedness of their deeds I will drive them out of My house! I will love them no more; all their princes are rebels. Amos 5:4–6: For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel, “Seek Me that you may live. 5 But do not resort to Bethel and do not come to Gilgal , nor cross over to Beersheba; for Gilgal will certainly go into captivity and Bethel will come to trouble.” Faith Lesson from Gilgal 1. Like the Israelites who took 12 stones out of the Jordan River to mark the fulfillment of God’s miracle in bringing them into the Promised Land, we too should set up remembrances to help us remember what God has done in our lives. 2. Like Caleb, who was faithful in trusting God, we should emulate his faith and strength. 3. Unlike Joshua, who failed to pray and seek the Lord regarding the trickery of the Gibeonites, we should bring our cares and decisions to the Lord. 4. We should heed the warnings from the life of King Saul, who presumed upon God’s grace and disobeyed the Lord regularly. 5. Lastly, we should not be like the Israelites, who slowly turned away from the Lord and were disciplined by God.