The life of Samson is one of the most intriguing and difficult to understand. Learn all about the life and places of Samson in this clear and understandable video filmed right where it all took place. Sites of interest include Tel Beth-Shemesh, a large rock where the Israelites likely sacrificed the oxen who pulled the cart after receiving the Ark of the Covenant from the Philistines, Sorek Valley, Nahal Sorek Stream, Zorah, Samson's Tomb, Tel Timnah. Timnah: Life of Samson Overview Life of Samson Overview Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of Timnah, which is located at this site called, “Tel Batash .” Let’s see the Bible come to life as we look at some of the key events from the Scriptures that took place here. Location Timnah is located about halfway between Joppa (a coastal town on the Mediterranean Sea) and Jerusalem. The Tel is about 10 acres in size. It is in a rich agricultural area alongside the Nahal Sorek stream. Historical Background 1. Timnah is mentioned 10 times in the Bible. Today, biblical Timnah is called Tel Batash, which is very little visited and undeveloped. It's hard to access as it's located in the midst of farm fields. The life of Samson takes place in the period of the Judges, which is about 1400 BC. 2. Samson is a very interesting Bible figure that presents some significant challenges to understand. His life is a blend of God’s sovereignty and Samson’s human choices. Many decisions Samson made were sinful and foolish. However, despite his sinful and foolish choices, God still used him to accomplish His sovereign purposes. However, it appears Samson’s choices negatively affected what he could have accomplished for God had he been more obedient and wise. 3. Samson’s life seems to reveal a very immature believer who follows their sinful desires rather than walking in the Spirit and exemplifying wisdom and maturity. 4. To understand Samson, we have to understand something about the book of Judges. The period of the Judges takes place in a period of Israel’s history when they were a very spiritually immature people. Their two famous leaders, Moses and Joshua, had died, and now they were on their own. 5. A lot of weird and bizarre things happen in the book of Judges, and there’s one phrase repeatedly used, “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” 6. Samson is listed in Hebrews 11, the hall of fame faith chapter, as a person who had faith. 7. Samson had a supernatural birth and purpose. 8. Like Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elizabeth, the mother of Samson was barren and unable to have children. Sites of Interest 1. Tel Beth-Shemesh 2. Sorek Valley 3. Nahal Sorek Stream 4. Zorah - Samson's Tomb 5. Tel Timnah (Tel Batash) 6. M odern Beth-Shemesh Places of Interest at Timnah, Zorah, Lehi 1. Street 2. Residential home 3. Oil press 4. Observation tent 5. City gate 6. Nahal Sorek Stream 7. Samson’s tomb 8. Samson’s hometown 9. Place God provided water for Samson Timnah, Zorah, Lehi & Samson in the Bible 1. God visited Samson’s parents through an angel. Judges 13:2-5: There was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren and had borne no children. Then the angel of the Lord appeared to the woman and said to her, “Behold now, you are barren and have borne no children, but you shall conceive and give birth to a son. Now, therefore , be careful not to drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing. For behold, you shall conceive and give birth to a son, and no razor shall come upon his head, for the boy shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines.” 2. God ordered Samson to be consecrated by being a Nazirite from birth (meaning separated or dedicated). This was a unique vow, applicable during the Old Covenant of national Israel, whereby a non-Levite (Samson was a Danite) could dedicate his life to full-time service of God. This vow required that their hair not be cut, no alcoholic beverages were to be consumed, and no touching of anything dead was allowed (Judges 13:5; Num. 6). 3. God also provided Samson with unbelievable, superhuman strength to be used against the Philistines, providing Samson's vow of submission was faithfully kept. 4. When Samson is grown, he comes down here to Timnah from Zorah, seeking an occasion against the Philistines. Judges 14:1-4: Then Samson went down to Timnah and saw a woman in Timnah, one of the daughters of the Philistines. So he came back and told his father and mother, “I saw a woman in Timnah, one of the daughters of the Philistines; now, therefore , get her for me as a wife.” Then his father and his mother said to him, “Is there no woman among the daughters of your relatives, or among all our people, that you go to take a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines?” But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me, for she looks good to me.” However, his father and mother did not know that it was of the Lord, for He was seeking an occasion against the Philistines. Now at that time , the Philistines were ruling over Israel. This verse has caused much debate and appears very difficult to understand. Didn’t God forbid Israelites to marry foreign women? And why would Samson desire an unbelieving wife whom it appears he was just attracted to because of her outward beauty? First of all, God only prohibited the Israelites from marrying Canaanite women from the seven nationalities that made up the Promised Land. The Philistines were not part of the people groups of Canaan. So the Philistines did not originate from the Canaanite groups infected by the Amorite sins as mentioned in Genesis 15:16. The Philistine land was considered separate from the Canaanite land as mentioned in Exodus 13:17, and the people group was distinguished from the Canaanites as mentioned in Joshua 13:1-6. Additionally, Boaz married Ruth, who was a Moabite, from whom the lineage of David and Christ came. So there is no direct conflict with God's commands and His possible moving in the heart of Samson to be attracted to a Philistine woman. However, even if it were sinful of Samson and arose wholly of him, and God simply allowed it for His own purposes, it could still be something "of the Lord." Whether God is actively doing or passively allowing, He is working. That is simply how God operates in a sinful world. Humans sin, and God works despite that sin. 5. Samson demonstrates his superhuman ability by killing a lion with his bare hands. Judges 14:5: Then Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother, and came as far as the vineyards of Timnah; and behold, a young lion came roaring toward him. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily, so that he tore him as one tears a young goat though he had nothing in his hand; but he did not tell his father or mother what he had done. By failing to tell his parents, Samson neglects their wise counsel and guidance parents provide. 6. Samson breaks his Nazirite vow and touches the dead lion he had previously killed. Judges 14:7-9: So he went down and talked to the woman ; and she looked good to Samson. When he returned later to take her, he turned aside to look at the carcass of the lion; and behold, a swarm of bees and honey were in the body of the lion. So he scraped the honey into his hands and went on, eating as he went. When he came to his father and mother, he gave some to them and they ate it; but he did not tell them that he had scraped the honey out of the body of the lion. By touching a dead animal, S amson violates part of his Nazirite Vow. 7. Samson throws a party for his marriage, proposes a riddle, and then succumbs to his wife’s pressure to reveal it. Judges 14:10: Then his father went down to the woman; and Samson made a feast there, for the young men customarily did this. When they saw him, they brought thirty companions to be with him. This customary feast was, literally, a “drinking party.” Although Scripture doesn’t indicate whether Samson participating in the drinking, it was very likely he did. If he did indeed drink, this was another violation of his Nazirite Vow. Samson proposes a riddle, his wife deceives him into telling her, and she tells her kinsmen. 8. Then the Spirit of God comes upon Samson and he killed 30 Philistines. Judges 14:19: Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily, and he went down to Ashkelon and killed thirty of them and took their spoil and gave the changes of clothes to those who told the riddle. And his anger burned, and he went up to his father’s house. But Samson’s wife was given to his companion who had been his friend. 9. Samson seeks revenge because his wife had been given to one of Samson’s good friends. Judges 15:4-5: Samson went and caught three hundred foxes, and took torches, and turned the foxes tail to tail and put one torch in the middle between two tails. When he had set fire to the torches, he released the foxes into the standing grain of the Philistines, thus burning up both the shocks and the standing grain, along with the vineyards and groves. 10. The Israelites deliver Samson to the Philistines bound in new ropes, but Samson breaks the ropes like wax and kills 1,000 Philistines. Judges 15:14-15: When he came to Lehi, the Philistines shouted as they met him. And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily so that the ropes that were on his arms were as flax that is burned with fire, and his bonds dropped from his hands. He found a fresh jawbone of a donkey, so he reached out and took it and killed a thousand men with it. 11. God provides for Samson after he killed the 1,000 with a donkey's jawbone. Judges 15:18-20: Then he became very thirsty, and he called to the Lord and said, “You have given this great deliverance by the hand of Your servant, and now shall I die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?” But God split the hollow place that is in Lehi so that water came out of it. When he drank, his strength returned and he revived. Therefore, he named it En- hakkore , which is in Lehi to this day. So he judged Israel twenty years in the days of the Philistines. 12. Samson commits sexual sin with a harlot. Judges 16:1-3: Now Samson went to Gaza and saw a harlot there, and went in to her. When it was told to the Gazites (part of the Philistines), saying, “Samson has come here,” they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the gate of the city. And they kept silent all night, saying, “Let us wait until the morning light, then we will kill him.” Now Samson lay until midnight, and at midnight he arose and took hold of the doors of the city gate and the two posts and pulled them up along with the bars; then he put them on his shoulders and carried them up to the top of the mountain which is opposite Hebron. From Gaza to Hebron is about 45 miles. Even though Samson committed sexual sin with a prostitute, God had mercy on him and delivered him anyway. 13. Samson is defeated by the Philistines. Judges 16:4-5: After this, it came about that he loved a woman in the valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah. The lords of the Philistines came up to her and said to her, “Entice him, and see where his great strength lies and how we may overpower him that we may bind him to afflict him. Then we will each give you eleven hundred pieces of silver.” Samson clearly had a weakness for women, which caused him to commit adultery and become impure and disobedient to God and his Nazarite Vow. 14. Delilah deceives Samson. Judges 16:18-21: When Delilah saw that he had told her all that was in his heart, she sent and called the lords of the Philistines, saying, “Come up once more, for he has told me all that is in his heart.” Then the lords of the Philistines came up to her and brought the money in their hands. She made him sleep on her knees, and called for a man and had him shave off the seven locks of his hair. Then she began to afflict him, and his strength left him. She said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him. Then the Philistines seized him and gouged out his eyes ; and they brought him down to Gaza and bound him with bronze chains, and he was a grinder in the prison. 15. When God’s name is mocked, and His glory is given to false gods, He chooses to once again use Samson for His sovereign purposes. Judges 16:23-31: Now the lords of the Philistines assembled to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god, and to rejoice, for they said, “Our god has given Samson our enemy into our hands.” When the people saw him, they praised their god, for they said, “Our god has given our enemy into our hands, Even the destroyer of our country, who has slain many of us.” It so happened when they were in high spirits, that they said, “Call for Samson, that he may amuse us.” So they called for Samson from the prison, and he entertained them. And they made him stand between the pillars. Then Samson said to the boy who was holding his hand, “Let me feel the pillars on which the house rests, that I may lean against them.” Now the house was full of men and women, and all the lords of the Philistines were there. And about 3,000 men and women were on the roof looking on while Samson was amusing them. Then Samson called to the Lord and said, “O Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time, O God, that I may at once be avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.” Samson grasped the two middle pillars on which the house rested, and braced himself against them, the one with his right hand and the other with his left. And Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” And he bent with all his might so that the house fell on the lords and all the people who were in it. So the dead whom he killed at his death were more than those whom he killed in his life. Then his brothers and all his father’s household came down, took him, brought him up and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father. Thus, he had judged Israel twenty years. Faith Lesson from the life of Samson. 1. Weaknesses of Samson which destroyed his life and ministry. Samson failed to listen to the counsel of his parents. Samson was bitter and vengeful. Samson had a weakness for women. Samson broke many of his Nazirite vows. Samson walked in the flesh instead of in the Spirit. Samson had raw abilities but never refined them and submitted them fully to God’s control and lordship. Samson paid a heavy price for his continual neglect of submitting to God. We should develop our gifts, submit them to God, and be fully obedient in serving Him or we could copy the failures of Samson. 2. Strengths of Samson Samson is mentioned in Hebrews 11 as a man of faith. So, despite his many failures, he did have faith and believed in God. 3. Strengths of God Samson failed in many ways, but God still used him. Samson served during the period of the Judges, a time when Israel was a very spiritually immature people. This explains why Samson was so immature and why God still used him anyway. God is sovereign and uses sinful people for his purposes. Even in God’s garden of grace, broken trees produce fruit.

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

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

The Tower of David, also known as the Jerusalem Citadel, is a historic and iconic landmark located near the Jaffa Gate entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem. Its history spans several millennia and reflects the city's rich and diverse cultural heritage. King Herod’s Palace, located near the Tower of David, was one of the most magnificent structures in ancient Jerusalem. Tower of David & King Herod's Palace Photo Gallery Places of Interest Tower of David & King Herod's Palace Complex Introduction 1. Welcome to the Tower of David Museum, located at one of the most important entrances to the Old City of Jerusalem. This place is not only a museum. It is a fortress, an archaeological site, a lookout point, and a summary of Jerusalem’s history in one location. 2. Jerusalem is a city of layers. Here, we will see those layers very clearly: First Temple remains, Hasmonean fortifications, Herod’s towers and palace area, Roman traces, Byzantine memories, Early Muslim fortifications, Crusader halls, Mamluk rebuilding, Ottoman gates and minaret, British Mandate history, and the modern State of Israel. 3. The renewed museum reopened in June 2023 after a major renovation costing 50 million US dollars that included preservation of the citadel, restoration of the minaret, renewal of the archaeological garden, a new entrance pavilion, improved accessibility, and a new permanent exhibition in 10 galleries. 4. This site is a perfect place to begin a Jerusalem tour because it stands between old and new Jerusalem. The museum itself describes the citadel as a gateway to exploring Jerusalem, with a visitor route from the entrance pavilion through the galleries, up to the Phasael Tower lookout, and then out toward the Old City. 5. Its history spans over 2,700 years, dating to the time of King Hezekiah and the First Temple Period. 6 . It's part of Herod's Palace, which later was used by Pilate, where Jesus was most likely tried and condemned to crucifixion. Location 1. The Tower of David Museum, also known as the Jerusalem Citadel, is a historic and iconic landmark near the Jaffa Gate entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem. Its history spans several millennia and reflects the city's rich and diverse cultural heritage. 2. King Herod’s Palace, located near the Tower of David, was one of the most magnificent structures in ancient Jerusalem. The Name “Tower of David” 1. Many visitors think King David built this tower, but he did not. The name "Tower of David" is a later traditional name. The name "Tower of David" was first used for the Herodian tower in the 5th century AD by the Byzantine Christians, who believed the site to be the palace of King David. They borrowed the name "Tower of David" from the Song of Songs, attributed to Solomon, King David's son, who wrote: "Thy neck is like the Tower of David built with turrets, whereon there hang a thousand shields, all the armor of the mighty men" Song of Solomon 4:4. 2. Later, Muslim tradition also connected the area with David, and Western visitors eventually applied the name especially to the Ottoman minaret. Today, the name refers to the whole citadel. 3. In Jerusalem, names are often ancient, traditional, and layered. A name may preserve memory, but it does not always identify the exact builder. Tower of David Historical Background The citadel guarded the western side of Jerusalem. But why here in this area? Because this was one of the most vulnerable and important approaches to the city. Anyone coming from the west, from the coastal plain, would approach Jerusalem near this area. That is why rulers kept fortifying this spot again and again. Therefore, the citadel is not one building from one period. It is a fortress made of many periods. 1. First Temple Period - 970 ~ 586 BC The earliest major remains in the citadel area go back to the First Temple Period. The museum identifies remains of a wall from the end of that period, apparently part of Jerusalem’s defenses in the days of King Hezekiah, around 2,700 years ago. Hezekiah ruled Judah when the Assyrian Empire threatened Jerusalem. The Bible describes the Assyrian crisis in 2 Kings 18–19, 2 Chronicles 32, and Isaiah 36–37. Jerusalem expanded westward during the First Temple Period, and defensive walls became very important. When we talk about ancient Jerusalem, we usually think first of the City of David, south of the Temple Mount. But by Hezekiah’s day, Jerusalem had expanded. This western hill became part of the defended city. That is why First Temple-period fortifications matter here. 2. Hasmonean Period - 165 ~ 63 BC After the Maccabean revolt, the Hasmonean rulers expanded and fortified Jerusalem. Here in the citadel area, they built massive walls and towers. The museum notes that dozens of ballista stones were found near the places where they landed, giving us a vivid picture of warfare around Jerusalem. The Hasmoneans were the Jewish ruling family that came out of the Maccabean revolt. Their story is connected with Hanukkah and the rededication of the Temple in the second century BC. Recent excavations (2025–2026) in the Kishle area under the Tower of David complex uncovered a major Hasmonean wall foundation, about 50 meters long and about 5 meters wide. AP reported that this is one of the longest intact sections of the Hasmonean wall foundation found in Jerusalem, likely built after the Hanukkah-era events. This is one of the exciting things about Jerusalem: archaeology is not finished. Even today, new discoveries are helping us understand the city’s story. 3. Herodian Period - 37 ~ 4 BC Herod the Great made this area one of the strongest and most impressive parts of Jerusalem. Herod, who took power over the Hasmonean dynasty, added three massive towers to the fortifications in 37–34 BC. He built these at the vulnerable northwest corner of the Western Hill, where the Citadel is now located. His purpose was not only to defend the city but also to safeguard his own royal palace located nearby on Mount Zion. Herod named the tallest of the towers in memory of his brother, who had committed suicide while in captivity. Another tower was called Mariamne, named for his second wife, whom he had executed and buried in a cave to the west of the tower. He named the third tower Hippicus after one of his friends. Of the three towers, only the base of one of them survives today. Of the original tower itself (now called the Tower of David), some sixteen courses of the Herodian stone ashlars still rise from ground level, upon which were added smaller stones in a later period that added back significantly to the height of the remaining stump of the Herodian tower. The museum identifies the surviving tower as the Phasael Tower, though scholars have debated whether the surviving tower should be identified as Phasael or Hippicus. The museum identifies this as Phasael Tower, one of Herod’s great towers, and is where today the observation point is located. Herod was Rome’s client king over Judea. He rebuilt the Temple Mount on a massive scale and also built palace-fortresses such as Masada, Herodium, and Caesarea Maritima. In Jerusalem, his western palace stood near this area. Herod the Great is the king in Matthew 2, during the birth of Jesus. Later, Herod’s palace area may also be relevant to the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate, though this is debated. Some scholars and Christian guides argue that Jesus may have been tried by Pilate near Herod’s former palace in the western part of Jerusalem, rather than at the Antonia Fortress. The Kishle excavations have renewed discussion of this possibility. The Jerusalem Post notes that many Christian leaders, historians, and archaeologists increasingly connect the trial setting with the area near the Tower of David/Kishle, while also acknowledging the long history of other traditional locations. HolyLandSite.com's position strongly leans to the area by Herod's Palace as the best candidate for the trial of Jesus. We have done several videos about it. Here is a link to see more: Pilate's Palace: Judgment & Condemnation of Jesus | HolyLandSite.com 4. Roman Period in Israel - 63 BC ~ 324 AD In 70 AD, the Romans destroyed Jerusalem and the Second Temple. Simon Bar Kokhba, the leader of the Jewish uprising, made the tower his residence. Josephus says the Romans left some of the great towers standing to show how strong the city had been and how great the Roman victory was. The museum notes that Josephus recorded the survival of Phasael Tower after the Roman destruction. After the revolt, the Tenth Roman Legion was stationed in Jerusalem. The museum notes that Roman legionaries camped in the ruins of the fortress and left clay pipes stamped with the seal of the Tenth Legion. This means that after Jerusalem’s destruction, this area did not become empty. It became part of the Roman military presence in the ruined city. 5. Byzantine Period in Israel - 324 ~ 638 AD In the Byzantine period, Jerusalem became a major Christian pilgrimage city. This is the period of Constantine, Helena, and the development of Christian holy sites in Jerusalem. Churches were built, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Byzantine monks lived near the fortress and mistakenly believed it was connected to King David. This is when the name "Tower of David" became attached to the site. This was so because the Byzantines mistakenly identified the hill as Mount Zion and presumed it to be David's palace, as mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:11, 11:1-27, and 16:22. The Byzantine period did not only build churches. It also reshaped the memory of Jerusalem. Places were identified, named, and connected to biblical stories. Some identifications were accurate, and some were traditional or mistaken. 6. Islamic Period - 638 to 1099 AD After the Arab conquest of Jerusalem in 638, the new Muslim rulers refurbished the Tower of David and then referred to it also as the Citadel of Davd, or citadel. This mighty structure withstood the Crusaders' assault in 1099 and surrendered only when its defenders were guaranteed safe passage out of the city. T his area continued to serve as a fortified point. The museum explains that an enclosed citadel was built here in the Early Muslim period. It was smaller than the present citadel and was attached to the Phasael Tower. In the courtyard, the base of a round tower about 10 meters, or 30 feet, in diameter can still be seen. This is the period of the Umayyads, Abbasids, Fatimids, and other Muslim rulers. The Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque belong to the broader early Islamic transformation of Jerusalem. Notice how every ruler reused what came before. Instead of clearing the whole area and starting over, new rulers built onto earlier fortifications. 7. Crusader Period - 1099 to 1260 AD When the Crusaders captured Jerusalem in 1099, they turned this area into a major castle. The museum says the Crusader castle was built in a French feudal style, with knights’ halls, arches, defensive walls, and a moat. The Crusaders gave the fortress much of its present size and dimensions. During this period, thousands of pilgrims undertook the pilgrimage to Jerusalem through the port at Jaffa. To protect pilgrims from the menace of highway robbers, the Crusaders built a tower surrounded by a moat atop the citadel and posted lookouts to guard the road to Jaffa. The citadel also protected the newly erected palace of the Crusader kings of Jerusalem, located immediately south of the fortress. The Crusaders controlled Jerusalem from 1099 until Saladin’s conquest in 1187, with later periods of partial Crusader return and conflict. The citadel guarded the western entrance to the city and the road system leading into Jerusalem. The Crusader period is easy to feel here because of the heavy stone halls, arches, and defensive character of the site. This was not just a symbolic building. It was a working military fortress. 8. Mamluk Period - 1260 to 1517 AD After the Crusaders, the Mamluks ruled Jerusalem. Most of the rooms now used as museum exhibition spaces were built by the Mamluks on the structural base of the Crusader fortress. They enlarged and strengthened the fortress and added more advanced defensive features. The Mamluks ruled from Egypt and controlled Jerusalem as part of their wider empire. Jerusalem was not usually a political capital under them, but it remained a holy city and a place of pilgrimage, learning, and religious endowment. In 1310, the citadel was rebuilt by Mamluk sultan Al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun, who gave it much of its present shape. 9. Ottoman Period - 1517 ~ 1917 The Ottomans ruled Jerusalem for 400 years. They rebuilt the Old City walls under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent from 1537 - 1541. Here at the fortress, they renovated the fortress, built the monumental entrance gate, the stone bridge, the cannon plaza, and the minaret. The minaret became the famous symbol most people now call the Tower of David. For 400 years, the citadel served as a garrison for Turkish troops. The Ottomans also installed a mosque near the southwest corner of the citadel, erecting a minaret between 1635 and 1655. In the 19th century, the conspicuous minaret still stands today and became commonly called the "Tower of David." During World War I, British forces under General Edmund Allenby captured Jerusalem. General Allenby formally proclaimed the event, standing on a platform at the outer eastern gate of the fortress. When tourists take a picture of the Tower of David, they often photograph the Ottoman minaret. So, the most famous symbol of the "Tower of David" is not from David, not from Herod, and not from the Crusaders. It is Ottoman. 10. British Mandate Period - 1917 to 1948 In 1917, British forces entered Jerusalem. The museum notes that the British declared the conquest of the city on the eastern side steps to the fortress. During the Mandate period, the first archaeological excavations in the complex were carried out, and the fortress was used as an art gallery, museum, and cultural center. General Allenby famously dismounted his horse, as a symbol of humility and respect for the holiness of Jerusalem, and entered it on foot through Jaffa Gate in December 1917. The British wanted to show respect for the holy city by not entering as conquerors on horseback. During this period, the Tower of David served as a military headquarters. Additionally, th e High Commissioner established the Pro-Jerusalem Society to protect the city's cultural heritage. This organization cleaned and renovated the citadel and reopened it to the public as a venue for concerts, benefit events, and exhibitions by local artists. In the 1930s, a museum of Palestinian folklore was opened in the citadel, displaying traditional crafts and clothing. Following the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, the Arab Legion captured Jerusalem and converted the citadel back to its historical role as a military position, as it commanded a dominant view across the armistice line into Jewish Jerusalem. It would keep this role until 1967. This fortress, once built for war, became a cultural site. That is one of the beautiful changes in the story of the Tower of David. 11. State of Israel Today 1948 ~ Present After the 1948 War, the fortress was used by the Jordanians as a fortress. In 1967, during the Six-Day War, Israel took control of the Old City, and the citadel came under Israeli sovereignty. After extensive excavations, it opened in 1989 as the Tower of David Museum. Since the Six-Day War in 1967, the citadel's cultural role has been revived. The Jerusalem Foundation opened the Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem in 1989. Located in a series of chambers in the original citadel, the museum includes a courtyard with archeological remains dating back 2,700 years. The exhibits depict 4,000 years of Jerusalem's history, from its beginnings as a Canaanite city to modern times. Using maps, videotapes, holograms, drawings, and models, the exhibit rooms each depict Jerusalem under its various rulers. Visitors may also ascend to the ramparts, which command a 360-degree view of Jerusalem's Old and New City. The Tower of David stands as a testament to Jerusalem’s complex and layered history, reflecting the many civilizations that have left their mark on the city. Today, the museum tells the whole story of Jerusalem: ancient, biblical, classical, Islamic, Crusader, Ottoman, modern, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim. That is what makes this site so powerful. If you ever visit, you’ll find it offers a fascinating glimpse into the past! Places of Interest Tour 1. Entrance The entrance has changed since 2023. It's now located on the west side of the Tower of David Museum just south of Jaffa Gate. 2. Gallery 1: “On the Edge of Eternity” — Introduction to Jerusalem This is the introductory gallery. It welcomes visitors to Jerusalem and presents the city’s 4,000-year history through projections, artifacts, a topographical map, an illuminated globe, and a 12-meter interactive timeline. This first gallery gives us the big picture. Jerusalem is not just a city of stones. It is a city of memory, faith, conflict, hope, and longing. The timeline helps visitors see the full sweep of history before we enter the details. This gallery shows the following history of Jerusalem: Canaanite/Jebusite city → Israelite/Judahite Jerusalem → Babylonian destruction → Persian return → Hasmonean kingdom → Herodian Jerusalem → Roman destruction → Byzantine Christian city → Islamic city → Crusader city → Mamluk and Ottoman city → British Mandate → modern Jerusalem. 3. Courtyard Archaeology Overview The courtyard is one of the best places to show that Jerusalem’s history is layered. The museum states that Jerusalem’s ancient fortifications are displayed in the courtyard and archaeological gardens under careful conservation practices. This courtyard is like an open-air history book. Some remains are walls. Some are towers. Some are water systems. Some are foundations. The important thing is not just one object; it is the sequence. Jerusalem was destroyed, rebuilt, conquered, restored, renamed, and reimagined many times. Main periods that can be seen in the courtyard: First Temple wall remains, Hasmonean fortifications, Herodian tower remains, Roman military traces, Byzantine cisterns, Early Muslim round tower, Crusader moat and halls, Mamluk rooms, Ottoman gate and minaret. 4. Gallery 2: Judaism — “The Holy City: Tracing Sanctity” This gallery explores the more than 3,000-year connection between Jerusalem and the Jewish people. It includes animations, videos, installations, archaeological artifacts, and a detailed model of the Second Temple and Temple Mount made with modern 3D printing. For Judaism, Jerusalem is the city of the Temple, the city of David, the place of sacrifice, prayer, kingship, exile, return, and hope. Even after the destruction of the Temple, Jerusalem remained central in Jewish prayer and identity. Bible connections: 2 Samuel 5 — David captures Jerusalem. 1 Kings 8 — Solomon dedicates the Temple. Psalm 122 — “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” Isaiah 2 — “The law will go out from Zion.” The model of the Second Temple helps visitors visualize Jerusalem in the time of Jesus, Herod, and the early church. This was the spiritual heart of Jewish life in the Second Temple period. 5. Gallery 3: Christianity — “Sacred Geography: Tracing Sanctity” This gallery focuses on Jesus’ final week in Jerusalem and on the Byzantine and Crusader periods, when Christian rule shaped the city. At the center is a model of the original Byzantine Church of the Holy Sepulchre. For Christianity, Jerusalem is holy above all because of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. The final week of Jesus’ life took place in Jerusalem: the triumphal entry, Last Supper, Gethsemane, trial, crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Jerusalem’s Christian geography developed over time. Some sites are strongly supported by history and archaeology; others are based more on later tradition. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the most important Christian site in the city because it preserves the traditional location of Jesus’ crucifixion and tomb. 6. Gallery 4: Islam — “Praises of Jerusalem: Tracing Sanctity” This gallery presents the Muslim connection to Jerusalem beginning with the 638 AD conquest. It includes a model of the Dome of the Rock as built in 691 AD, and an animated installation about Muhammad’s Night Journey and ascent, which gives Jerusalem its status as the third holiest city in Islam. The Dome of the Rock, built in 691 AD, is one of the oldest and most beautiful Islamic monuments in the world. It was built on the Temple Mount, right over where the original temple King Solomon built, Zerubbabel rebuilt, and Herod the Great rebuilt again to its most glorious state ever. Jerusalem is one city, but it is sacred in different ways to different faiths. This museum helps visitors see those different layers side by side. 7. Gallery 5: “Jerusalem: The Circle of the Year” This gallery uses video art on the vaulted ceiling, music, chants, prayers, and touchscreens to present the yearly cycle of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim holy days in Jerusalem. This room is not only about dates on a calendar. It is about the living rhythm of Jerusalem. In this city, the year is shaped by Passover, Easter, Ramadan, Sukkot, Christmas, Hanukkah, and many other holy days. In Jerusalem, history is not only in the past. It is lived every year. 8. Gallery 6: The Tower of David This gallery tells the story of the citadel itself, using projection mapping, video archives, artifacts, and digital games. It presents the Tower of David as a symbol of Jerusalem and shows archaeological evidence from the First Temple Period to modern times. Now we focus on the building we are standing in. The citadel is a small version of Jerusalem’s whole history. Every empire that came to Jerusalem left something here. The Tower of David is not the story of one king. It is the story of many rulers, many faiths, many destructions, and many reconstructions. 9. Gallery 7: Temporary Exhibition Gallery It's called the "Temporary Exhibition Gallery" because the museum changes its exhibitions regularly. Because this gallery changes, it reminds us that Jerusalem is not only ancient, but also modern, artistic, musical, and personal. Every generation tells the city’s story in a new way. 10. Gallery 8: “From a Bird’s Eye View” — The 1873 Illés Model This gallery displays the large Stephan Illés model of Jerusalem as it appeared in 1873. It measures about 4 by 4.5 meters and shows streets, alleys, buildings, mountains, and valleys. The model was made by Stephan Illés, a Hungarian pilgrim who arrived in Jerusalem in 1864; it was first shown in Vienna in 1873 and later rediscovered in Geneva before being returned to Jerusalem on permanent loan. This is one of the best tools for understanding 19th-century Jerusalem. The city was still mostly inside the Ottoman walls. Soon after this, Jerusalem began expanding outside the Old City in a major way. In the model we can see the Jaffa Gate, the citadel, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, valleys, roads, and the first neighborhoods outside the walls. This model captures Jerusalem at a turning point: still ancient in appearance, but about to become a modern city. 11. Gallery 9: Modern Times — Jerusalem as Center of the World This gallery tells the story of the last 200 years through photographs, films, archival material, and documents, showing Jerusalem’s modernization in the 19th and 20th centuries and its role as the capital of the State of Israel. In the modern period, Jerusalem changed rapidly. New neighborhoods were built outside the walls. Foreign powers opened consulates. Pilgrims, archaeologists, photographers, scholars, and political movements all came here. Jerusalem became not only a holy city, but also a modern political and international city. 12. Gallery 10: “Eye Towards Zion” — Photography and Modern Jerusalem This gallery is dedicated to early photography and photographers of modern Jerusalem. It shows how Jerusalem became an important subject soon after the invention of photography in the mid-19th century. It also includes a reading library and views from the windows. Photography changed the way the world saw Jerusalem. Before photography, many people imagined Jerusalem through Scripture, maps, paintings, and pilgrims’ stories. With photography, people could see the real streets, gates, walls, people, and holy sites. Jerusalem has always been both real and symbolic. Photography brought those two together. 13. Phasael Tower Observation Point This is one of the best views in Jerusalem and offers a 360-degree view. From here, we see east and west, old and new, sacred and modern. This view helps us understand why Jerusalem matters geographically. From here we can see: To the east: Old City, Temple Mount, Dome of the Rock, Mount of Olives. To the north: Christian Quarter, Church of the Holy Sepulchre area, Muslim Quarter, Damascus Gate direction. To the south: Armenian Quarter, Jewish Quarter, Mount Zion, Dormition Abbey, Upper Room. To the west: New Jerusalem, Mamilla, modern city expansion outside the walls. Jerusalem is not large, but its meaning is enormous. From this tower, we see why this city was desired by kings, empires, pilgrims, armies, and worshipers. 14. The Moat The moat reminds us that this was a fortress. A moat made it harder for attackers to reach the walls. In the Crusader and later periods, defensive planning shaped this site. The museum notes that the Crusader citadel was surrounded by a moat and included halls, arches, and defensive walls. The Tower of David today is peaceful, but its architecture was born from centuries of conflict. 15. The Kishle The Kishle is an archaeological part of the Tower of David. It was originally the northern part of King Herod's Palace complex. Over the years it has been converted into a prison during the Ottoman and British Mandate periods. Under its floors, excavations have revealed layers from many periods of Jerusalem’s history: First Temple, Hasmonean, Herodian, Roman, Crusader, Ottoman, British, and modern. It is one of the clearest examples of Jerusalem’s layers in one building. Recent excavations reached bedrock and revealed a major Hasmonean-era wall, one of the most complete and longest sections of Jerusalem’s First Wall found so far. Archaeologists also found evidence such as medieval dyeing basins and prison graffiti from the Ottoman and British periods. Some believe Herod’s palace area near the Tower of David may be the better location for the praetorium where Jesus was tried before Pilate. The Kishle is powerful because it brings together archaeology and human stories: kings, soldiers, prisoners, pilgrims, rebels, and worshipers. 16. Exit The exit is near the inner passage by the Gift Shop, close to the route toward the Moat and Kishle area. As we leave the Tower of David, remember this: the citadel is not really about David alone. It is about Jerusalem. It shows us a city, built layer upon layer, period upon period, empire upon empire. Here we see walls from the days of Judah, fortifications from the Hasmoneans, towers of Herod, traces of Rome, memories of Byzantine Christians, Muslim fortifications, Crusader halls, Mamluk rebuilding, Ottoman symbols, British history, and modern Israel. Jerusalem is a city where history is not hidden far away. It is under your feet, in the stones, in the walls, and in the names. The Tower of David is one of the best places to understand that story. 17. Optional Evening Add-On: Night Spectacular or King David Show The museum also offers night experiences projected on the walls of the citadel. These are not part of the regular museum ticket, but they can be a strong evening add-on for groups. The museum describes the Night Experiences as open-air sound-and-light shows projected on the citadel walls, about 40 minutes long, designed for speakers of all languages. King Herod's Palace Historical Background 1. King Herod’s Palace, located near the Tower of David, was one of the most magnificent structures in ancient Jerusalem. 2. Herod the Great built it from 25-10 BC. The palace was renowned for its grandeur and luxury. 3. The palace complex included two main buildings with banquet halls, baths, and gardens, all surrounded by impressive fortifications. 4. It served as the administrative center of Herod’s rule and later as the residence of Roman governors, including Pontius Pilate. 5. The Tower of David and Herod’s Palace were part of the same fortified area, with the palace located just to the west of the citadel. 6. Excavations have uncovered parts of Herod’s Palace near the Tower of David, providing valuable insights into the period's architectural and historical context. 7. The Kishle and King Herod’s Palace offer fascinating glimpses into Jerusalem’s layered history, from ancient times through various periods of conquest and rule. If you visit the Tower of David Museum, you can explore these areas and learn more about their historical significance. Faith Lesson from the Tower of David and Herod's Palace 1. The stones here cry out that God’s Word is true and is verifiable through the fulfillment of many prophecies. What about us? Do we see that written all over the history of Jerusalem and Israel are fulfilled prophecies from the Bible? Does this increase our faith and confidence in the Bible? 2. A famous statement about Jerusalem, which is a sad but very true, says, “The Jerusalem Stone, so resilient and supple, bows to the transient follies of humankind, bearing a testimony like a hundred witnesses, and yet, remains silent.” What about us? Do we understand that disobedience to God only results in folly and destruction? 3. We find in all that has happened to the Jews a powerful and sobering message for us today. Obedience brings God’s blessings, but disobedience brings His discipline. 1 Corinthians 10:11–12: Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. 12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. What about us? are we enjoying God's blessings or His discipline? Do we realize His discipline is for our own God to draw us out of destruction and into His blessings and life?

See an overview of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives. This will help you see everything in perspective. Old City Jerusalem, Mt. of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Triumphal Entry, Western Wall, City of David, Kidron Valley, Southern Stairs, Temple Mount, Bethesda, Pool of Siloam, Pater Noster Church, Chapel of Ascension, Dominus Flevit Church, Cardo, House of Caiaphas, Upper Room, Kidron Valley, Hinnom Valley, Via Dolorosa, Pilate's Palace and Judgment of Jesus. Jerusalem Holy Sites Overview Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jerusalem Sites Overview Summary of all the Biblical Sites and Their Locations 1. Mount of Olives 2. Bethphage Beginning of the Triumphal Entry. 3. Chapel of Ascension Place from which Christ ascended to heaven and will return to in power and great glory at the end of the Great Tribulation. 4. Pater Noster Church Place Christ taught the Lord’s Prayer. 5. Tombs of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. 6. Triumphal Entry Pathway The road Christ descended on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before His crucifixion on Friday. 7. Church of Dominus Flevit Place Christ wept over Jerusalem on the Triumphal Entry and prophesied her future destruction. 8. Church of Mary Magdalene Christ cast out seven demons from Mary, and she became a passionate follower of Christ. 9. Garden of Gethsemane – Church of All Nations 10. Tomb of Mary (mother of Jesus) 11. Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat) Place Christ will gather the nations in judgment at the end of the Tribulation Period, and their blood will flow to the depth of a horse’s bridle down toward the Dead Sea and beyond. 12. Temple Mount It was enlarged by Herod the Great. It’s the size of 35 football fields (35 acres, 14 hectares). The original temple was located exactly where the Dome of the Rock is today. Place the prophets ministered. The glory of the Lord filled the temple here. Place Christ ministered. Place the apostles ministered. Place the early church met. The Antonia Fortress was located just north of the Temple Mount. 13. Dome of the Rock (not a mosque but a shrine) 14. Western Wall It was part of the original wall of the Temple Mount Herod built. It existed during the time of Christ. It is the closest place (for a large gathering) to the original temple where the Jews pray. 15. Pool of Bethesda - St. Anne Church A lame man was healed here after waiting 38 years. 16. Via Dolorosa (painful path) It’s the believed path Christ took on the way to the Cross. It has 14 stations. 17. Gordon’s Garden Tomb - Golgotha 18. Church of the Holy Sepulcher 19. Absalom’s Tomb 20. Southern Stairs Place Christ taught His disciples. Likely location of Pentecost. 21. City of David 22. David’s Palace 23. Gihon Spring 24. Wall repaired by Nehemiah 25. Pool of Siloam 26. Hinnom Valley Gehenna – Idea of hell and eternal burning. 27. House of Caiaphas Place Peter denied Christ. Place Christ was condemned before Ananias and Caiaphas the high priest. 28. Tomb of David 29. The Upper Room 30. Herod’s Palace ~ Later, it would become Pilate's Palace 31. Citadel of David Gates of Jerusalem 1. Eastern Gate (Golden Gate, Shushan Gate) Gate Christ regularly entered on His way to the temple from the Mount of Olives. Peter and James healed a lame man after entering this gate. Closed by Ottoman Turkish Muslims in the 1541 AD. 2. Lions Gate (Stephen’s Gate) 3. Herod’s Gate 4. Damascus Gate 5. New Gate 6. Jaffa Gate 7. Zion Gate 8. Dung Gate

Dr. Todd Michael Fink has authored many books: Israel Biblical Sites Travel Guide, Israel Biblical Sites Bible Companion, Biblical Discipleship: Essential Components for Attaining Spiritual Maturity, Biblical Discipleship Study Guide: 16-Week Discipleship Training Course, Discovering the True Riches of Life, A Biblical Analysis of Corrective Church Discipline, What Is the Gospel & How to Share It, Discipulado Bíblico, Discipulado Bíblico Guia de Estudio Books by Dr. Fink Dr. Fink is a Christ-Centered Pastor, Author, Speaker, and Teacher. He is also the founder of Go Missions to Mexico Ministries and Holy Land Site Ministries. Books by Todd Michael Fink Click on Books for More Info Clink to see more For more on Todd Michael Fink click ToddMichaelFink.com

Selah Book Press is a Christian Publishing Ministry for the Glory of God. Selah Book Press Christian Publishing for the Glory of God! Books by Todd Michael Fink Clink to see more For more on Selah Book Press click below: SelahBookPress.com

The temple was to be a house of prayer for all the nations, not just Israel. Mark 11:17: Christ said, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." The money changers were corrupting the temple by charging excessive fees for the purchase of animals to be used by those coming to the temple to offer sacrifices. Temple Mount: Jesus Cleanses the Temple Temple Mount: Jesus Cleanses the Temple Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of the temple mount. The Temple Mount encompasses around 35 acres and was where the temple was located during the time of Christ. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at a key event of Christ cleansing the temple area that took place here. Why did Christ cleanse the temple by driving out the moneychangers? Mark 11:15-17: “And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. And he was teaching them and saying to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." Who were the money changers? They were basically businessmen who took advantage and overcharged those traveling from afar who couldn’t bring animals to sacrifice because of the long distance, and therefore, chose to buy them at the temple instead. Let’s also look at the background and understand the purpose of God for the temple and the Nation of Israel. God’s plan for Israel was that they would be a blessing to the whole world, a people through whom God’s love and commandments could be shown to all. Gen. 12:1-3: “Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you, all the families of the earth shall be blessed." The Nation of Israel was to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Exodus 19:4-6: “You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. Now, therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel." Israel was to be a light to the nations. Isaiah 6:1-4: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Lift up your eyes all around, and see; they all gather together, they come to you; your sons shall come from afar, and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.” Christ summed up our purpose, and the purpose of Israel in Matthew 5. Matt. 5:13-16: “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” The temple was to be a house of prayer for all the nations, not just Israel. Mark 11:17: Christ said, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." What can we observe and learn from these events that happened at this significant place? God’s plan for Israel was that they would be a blessing to the whole world, a people through whom God’s love and commandments could be shown to all. God’s purpose for Israel was to use them as a kingdom of priests to spread His truth to the world. The temple was a house of prayer for all nations, not just Israel. The money changers were corrupting the temple by charging excessive fees for the purchase of animals to be used by those coming to the temple to offer sacrifices. Faith Lesson Am I a light to the world, showing God’s truth and commandments to all? Am I being an example of a child of God for all to see? Do I corrupt the message of God’s truth in any way by my lack of honesty in finances, by being a bad example, by not living out the truth and so forth?

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

Jacob's Well in Shechem (Sychar) is the place where Jesus met the Samaritan woman. Shechem is also where Abraham lived, Jacob lived, Joshua rallied the nation of Israel together and gave the curses and blessings on Mt. Gerizim and Mt. Ebal. The nation of Israel was divided at Shechem. Filmed on location at the very place Jesus met with the Samaritan woman in Sychar (Shechem). See this story and the place where it happened like never before. Church of St. Photina: Jacob's Well Photo Gallery Places of Interest Church of St. Photina: Jacob's Well Introduction 1. In John chapter 4, we learn that on His way back to Galilee from Jerusalem, Jesus and His disciples stopped here at Jacob's Well to refresh themselves. 2. It was here that He and a woman both came to this well at the same time, and the two of them struck up a conversation. 3. This woman was from a race of people that the Jews despised - the Samaritans. 4. We learn from the Bible that she had five former husbands, and that she was currently living with a man to whom she was not married. 5. We don’t know her real name. However, history has given her a name: Photini, meaning "the enlightened one." Why? Because, according to the Gospel of John, she was the first person in the world to whom Jesus revealed that He was the Messiah. 6. This church here, called "Church of St. Photina," was named after the Samaritan woman and marks the place of Jacob's Well, the place where she and Jesus met and talked. 7. Jacob's Well was built by Jacob around 1906 BC, when Jacob settled here in Shechem after returning from Pan Haram with his family. 8. The well was never destroyed over its 4,000-year history because everyone needs water, and this was an excellent source of fresh, cool water. 9. We're going to explore this site and drink out of the same well Jesus did. We will literally be in the footsteps of Jesus at this site. Location 1. Shechem had a significant role in the Bible and is mentioned 58 times. 2. Jacob's Well is located in the Church of St. Photina, in Biblical Shechem. It is also known as Sychar in the New Testament, and as Tel Balata and Nablus today. 3. Shechem is located about 30 miles (48 km) north of Jerusalem and about 30 miles (48 km) northeast of Tel Aviv. 4. It was in the Samaria region of Israel in the territory of Ephraim during Bible times. 5. It was on a main north-south travel route that linked the northern and southern parts of Israel. 6. It was also on a main east-west route that linked the coastal plain of Israel with the Jordan Valley. 7. Shechem lies between the two famous mountains of Gerizim and Ebal. Historical Background 1. God first appeared to Abraham in Shechem and gave him the promise that he would inherit the land. 2. Abraham and Jacob lived here. 3. Jacob settled here after returning from Pan Haram with his family and built the well here around 1906 BC. This means this well is almost 4,000 years old. 4. Joseph’s bones are buried here. 5. Later, after the Assyrian conquest of this area in 720 BC, it was also called the Samaria region. 6. The Samaritans were a mixture of Assyrian and Israelite blood and were considered impure by the pureblooded Jews. As a result, the Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans. History of the Church of St. Photina 1. Shortly after the time of Christ, early Christians venerated this site. 2. 384 AD: A Byzantine church was built over Jacob's Well. Jerome mentioned this church in his writings. 3. The church was most likely destroyed during the Samaritan revolts of 484 or 529 AD. 4. 550 AD: The Roman Emperor, Justinian I, rebuilt the church. 5. 1099 AD: The church was in ruins by the time the Crusaders occupied Nablus (also known as Shechem). Shortly afterward, the Crusaders rebuilt the church. 6. 1187 AD: The church was destroyed by Saladin, the first sultan of Egypt and Syria, but the well survived. 7. No church existed for centuries, but Christians continued to venerate the place. 8. 1860 AD: The Greek Orthodox Church purchased the site, and a new church named after the Samaritan woman (St. Photini) was built in 1893. Places of Interest In Shechem 1. Tel Balata 2. Mount Gerizim 3. Mount Ebal 4. Jacob’s Well (135 feet, 41 m. deep) 5. Joseph’s Tomb 6. Modern Shechem (Nablus) 7. Sychar Places of Interest at the Church Outside the Church 1. Ruins of previous churches. 2. Mosaic ruins of the early Byzantine Church on each side, to the front. There is a drawing of this church from an early pilgrim depicting it as being in the shape of a cross. The well is directly under the intersection of the cross lines. 3. Half Dome on the roof that is directly over Jacob's Well. 4. Columns and pillars from the Byzantine and Crusader Churches. 5. Mosaic entering the church depicting Joseph's Well. 5. Image of St. Photina above the entry to the church. Inside the Church 1. Clay Jar On a platform at the top of one of these pillars is a glass case containing a jar. This jar is either presumed to be the one that Photini used to gather her water, or it simply represents the jar that she carried at that time. 2. The Skullcap of Photini Near the front of the church, inside a glass case, is a fragment of a skullcap, which is believed to be part of the remains of Saint Photini herself. 3. Icon in the Church – The Killing of Father Philoumenos On November 29, 1979, Father Philoumenos was killed by a disturbed man named Asher Raby. Raby threw a grenade inside the church, and while Father Philoumenos tried to escape, Raby attacked him with an ax and killed him. An icon in the central part of the church shows this tragic event. Raby ran away and was not caught until three years later, when another priest, Father Justinos, became guardian of the church. Raby came back and tried to kill Father Justinos, too, but this time the priest managed to break Raby’s leg, and he was arrested. Today, the sarcophagus of Saint Philoumenos is at the front of the church. After his death, Father Justinos worked to restore the church, and the restoration was completed in the early 2000s. Father Justinos laid all of the mosaics, and painted all of the icons in the church, including the great picture of Jesus high above on the dome. To do this, he had to lie on his back, suspended on a scaffold, painting what is called the Christ Pantocrator, or Christ the Almighty. This particular image of Jesus is on the dome of virtually every eastern Orthodox church in the world. 4. Images of persecution and martyrs. 5. Remains of columns of the Crusader Church. 6. Stairs in the front of the church leading down to the crypt where Jacob's Well is located. 7. Crypt with Jacob's Well The well is around 135 feet deep (41 m). The well has a narrow opening, just wide enough to allow a man's body to pass through with arms uplifted. This narrow neck, approximately 4 ft. (1.22 m) long, opens into the well itself, which is cylindrically shaped and measures about 7 ft. 6 in. (2.29 m) in diameter. If you were to look at the well from a side angle, it would be in the shape of a wine bottle. It's narrow at the neck, and then opens up wider the rest of the way. The entrances to Old Testament wells were narrow, allowing a rock to be placed over them for protection. Example: Moses in Midian. Genesis 29:3: When all the flocks were gathered there, the shepherds would roll the stone away from the well’s mouth and water the sheep. Then they would return the stone to its place over the mouth of the well. It fits the Bible's description as being very deep. Jacob's Well and the Samaritan Woman In the Bible Shechem, called Sychar, is the place where Jesus met a woman at Jacob’s well and conversed with her. John 4:1–26: Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2 (although Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples), 3 he left Judea and departed again for Galilee. 4 And he had to pass through Samaria. 5 So he came to a town of Samaria called Sychar, near the field that Jacob had given to his son Joseph . 6 Jacob's well was there; so Jesus, wearied as he was from his journey, was sitting beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” 8 (For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.) 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” 11 The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep [120 feet, 40 m.]. Where do you get that living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock.” 13 Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” 15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” 17 The woman answered him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband’; 18 for you have had five husbands, and the one you now have is not your husband. What you have said is true.” 19 The woman said to him, “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshiped on this mountain [Gerizim] , but you say that in Jerusalem is the place where people ought to worship.” 21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. 24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” 25 The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ). When he comes, he will tell us all things.” 26 Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he.” John 4:39–42: Many Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, “He told me all that I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days. 41 And many more believed because of his word. 42 They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” Faith Lesson from Jacob's Well 1. Of all the events that happened at Shechem, Jesus summed up God’s desire for us when He told the woman at the well, “The hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth ” (John 2:23–24). 2. Do we worship God in spirit? 3. Do we walk in the Spirit and stay in close fellowship with God (Gal. 5:16–26)? 4. Do we worship God in truth? 5. Do we know God’s Word well and the truth it contains (2 Tim. 2:15)? 6. We will only know God to the degree we know His Word. How well do you know God?