Ein Karem (Kerem) is a charming hillside village famed for its centuries-old holy sites. Among these include the Church of St. John the Baptist, containing a cave said to be John's birthplace, and Mary’s Spring, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have drunk. Four other holy sites are in Ein Karem as well such as Visitation Church, the Notre Dame de Sion convent, the Greek Orthodox St. John Convent, and the Al Moskovia Russian monastery (originally called the Gorny Monastery). Ein - Karem (Kerem) Photo Gallery Places of Interest Ein Karem ~ John the Baptist Introduction Welcome to Ein Karem. Many events from the Bible took place here. Here are some of the highlights. 1. Here is where John the Baptist's parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, lived. 2. John the Baptist was born here. 3. Mary, the mother of Jesus, visited Elizabeth here, and the baby leaped within her womb when she saw Mary. There are three sites here that will be our focus. 1. Church of St. John the Baptist - Birthplace of John 2. Church of the Visitation - Place Mary visited Elizabeth 3. The Spring of Mary - Place Mary quenched her thirst before climbing the hill to visit Elizabeth. Location 1. Ein Karem (Kerem) is located about 4.5 miles (7 km) southwest of Jerusalem. 2. Ein (spring) Karem (vineyard), together meaning “Spring of the Vineyard,” has a Jewish and Christian history and is still a tranquil place of trees and vineyards. Historical Background 1. In the Old Testament, Ein Karem is referred to as “BeitaKerem or Beth-Haccerem,” as found in Jeremiah 6:1 and Nehemiah 3:14. The area was within the jurisdiction of the Tribe of Judah. 2. In the New Testament, Ein Karem is best known as the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth and the birthplace of John the Baptist. 3. It is considered one of the top tour destinations for Christian pilgrims. Two Homes of Zechariah and Elizabeth 1. The two main sites in Ein Karem are the Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist and the Visitation Church. It is believed that Zechariah and Elizabeth had two houses in Ein Karem. Zechariah was a priest and likely wealthy. Therefore, it is very possible he had two residences in Ein Karem. 2. Their usual residence was in the valley. However, a cooler summer house located high on a hillside allowed them to escape the heat and humidity during warmer months. The summer house is believed to be where the pregnant Elizabeth remained in seclusion for five months, as found in Luke 1:24. It’s also where Mary visited her. 3. John the Baptist was born in the house in the valley. It was also here that Zechariah finally regained his power of speech when he wrote on a writing tablet that the baby’s name was to be John. Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist 1. During excavations in the church, which has at its core the cave that Christian tradition identifies as the birthplace of John the Baptist, there have been discovered remains of two Byzantine chapels which mark the place where early Christians venerated this site as the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth, and the birthplace of John the Baptist. The Byzantine ruins include two chapels: the “Martyrs Chapel,” where the modern church is located, and another chapel under the southern side of the monastery. The Martyrs Chapel refers to the children killed by Herod in Matthew 2:16. An inscription in a mosaic panel reads, in Greek, “Hail martyrs of God.” Whom it refers to is unknown. 2. Two altars have also been discovered in this church. The high altar is dedicated to St John. To the right is Elizabeth’s altar. To the left are steps leading down to a natural grotto — identified as John’s birthplace and believed to be part of his parents’ home. Also found under this church are remains from the first century AD, including a flight of plastered steps recently identified as part of a typical Jewish ritual bath (mikveh) for purification. Some have linked the discovery to Zachariah. As a priest in the temple, he probably had to purify himself every day since his meals were often based on sacrifices brought by pilgrims. It is, therefore, possible that Zachariah had a mikveh in his own house. Therefore, the archaeological find is of major importance to substantiate the Christian tradition. 3. In the Crusader period (1099-1291), a church was built over the house believed to be the house of Zachariah. First mentioned by a Russian pilgrim, Daniel, in 1109, this church was one of the first to be built by the Crusaders. Church of the Visitation 1. The Virgin Mary’s visit to Elizabeth is depicted in a mosaic on the facade and is commemorated in a two-tiered church built on a slope of the hill south of Ein Karem. Several churches and monasteries were built during the Byzantine period. The Visitation Crusader's Church was built over one of them. 2. Later, the Crusaders rebuilt some of the ruined Byzantine churches. The upper floor of the visitation church shows remains of the Crusader’s church, especially on the south wing. 3. Antonio Barluzzi designed the modern church, which was completed in 1955. The artistically decorated Church of the Visitation is considered one of the most beautiful Gospel sites in the Holy Land. 4. This church is believed to be the site of Zechariah and Elizabeth’s summer house, where Mary visited her cousin. On the wall opposite the church, ceramic plaques reproduce Mary’s song of praise, as found in Luke 1:46-55. Mary's exultation is translated into 58 languages and can be found hanging on large plaques on the side of the church. 5. In the lower chapel, a vaulted passage leads to an old well. Ancient tradition suggests that a spring joyfully burst out of the rock here when Mary greeted Elizabeth. 6. A huge stone set in a niche is known as the Stone of Hiding . According to an ancient tradition, the stone opened to provide a hiding place for baby John during Herod’s Massacre of the Innocents — an event depicted in a painting on the wall. Mary’s Spring 1. In a valley south of the village is a fresh-water spring known as Mary’s Spring or the Fountain of the Virgin. Tradition states that Mary quenched her thirst from this spring before climbing the hill to meet Elizabeth. 2. The village of Ein Karem gets its name from this spring. Its meaning is derived from the Arabic “Ein” (spring) and Kerem (vineyard or olive grove). A small, abandoned mosque is built over the spring, another reminder that this was once an Arab village. 3. Southwest of Ein Karem, off Route 386, a Greek Melkite monastery and a Franciscan convent mark the Desert of St. John, a site where John the Baptist is believed to have lived in seclusion. Places of Interest Ein Karem is home to five churches and monasteries: 1. The Church of St. John the Baptist 2. Visitation Church 3. Notre Dame de Sion Convent: It is operated by an order of nuns of the Zion sisters and has been converted to function as a guest house. 4. Greek Orthodox St. John Convent: This serves the Greek-Orthodox community of Ein Karem. The ancient church (built in 1894) was restored in 1975. 5. Al Moskovia Russian Monastery (initially called the Gorny Monastery). Construction on this five-orange-domed structure started in 1905 and was completed in 2005. Later, its domes were painted gold. 6. Additionally, a focal point is the famous Mary’s Well, where it’s believed that Mary, miraculously pregnant with Jesus, sat and drank from its spring waters while sitting with Elizabeth, who was miraculously pregnant with John at the same time. John the Baptist in the Bible 1. John was the prophesied forerunner of Christ, whose purpose was to prepare the way of the Lord. Malachi 3:1: “Behold, I am sending My messenger, and he will clear a way before Me. And the Lord, whom you are seeking, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming,” says the Lord of armies. Malachi 4:5–6: “Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. 6 He will turn the hearts of the fathers back to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and strike the land with complete destruction.” 2. He had a supernatural birth and calling. Luke 1:11–17: Now an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the altar of incense. 12 Zechariah was troubled when he saw the angel, and fear gripped him. 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 [l]name him John. 14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice over his birth. 15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord; and he will drink no wine or liquor, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit while still in his mother’s womb. 16 And he will turn many of the sons of Israel back to the Lord their God. 17 And it is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of fathers back to their children, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” 3. It was in Ein Karem that Mary magnified the Lord. The spiritual depth of Mary, a young virgin, is quite remarkable. Luke 1:46–56: And Mary said: “My soul exalts the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48 For He has had regard for the humble state of His bond-servant; for behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed. 49 For the Mighty One has done great things for me; and holy is His name. 50 And His mercy is to generation after generation toward those who fear Him. 51 He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones, and has exalted those who were humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty-handed. 54 He has given help to His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, 55 Just as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and his descendants forever.” 56 Mary stayed with her about three months, and then returned to her home. 4. His main message was a message of repentance. Matt. 3:1–12: Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, 2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” 3 For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, “The voice of one calling out in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight!’” 4 Now John himself had a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 At that time, Jerusalem was going out to him, and all Judea and all the region around the Jordan; 6 and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, as they confessed their sins. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, “You offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore produce fruit consistent with repentance; 9 and do not assume that you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father’; for I tell you that God is able, from these stones, to raise up children for Abraham. 10 And the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; therefore, every tree that does not bear good fruit is being cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 “As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” 5. He had the privilege of baptizing Jesus. Matt. 3:13–17: Then Jesus arrived from Galilee at the Jordan, coming to John to be baptized by him. 14 But John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I have the need to be baptized by You, and yet You are coming to me?” 15 But Jesus, answering, said to him, “Allow it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him. 16 After He was baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and settling on Him, 17 and behold, a voice from the heavens said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” 6. He was beheaded for his message against the sin of Herod the Tetrarch. Matt. 14:1–12: At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the news about Jesus, 2 and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he himself has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.” 3 For when Herod had John arrested, he bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. 4 For John had been saying to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5 Although Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded John as a prophet. 6 But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod, 7 so much that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. 8 And after being prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.” 9 And although he was grieved, the king commanded it to be given because of his oaths and his dinner guests. 10 He sent word and had John beheaded in the prison. 11 And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. 12 John’s disciples came and took away the body and buried it; and they went and reported to Jesus. Faith Lesson from Ein Karem 1. John's preaching was a strong message of repentance and judgment, the same message Christ preached. What about us? When we share the gospel, do we focus on the need for repentance, or do we skip over it? 2. The depth of Mary's knowledge of God and faith was remarkable. What about us? How deep is our knowledge and faith? Are we committed to growing and deepening our knowledge and faith or are we apathetic and lazy about it? 3. John died for preaching against Herod the Tetrarch's sin. What about us? Do we have strong convictions and stand against sin, or are we passive and silent?

Privacy Policy for HolyLandSite.com Pivacy Policy Holy Land Site Privacy Policy This privacy policy has been compiled to better serve those who are concerned with how their 'Personally Identifiable Information' (PII) is being used online. PII, as described in US privacy law and information security, is information that can be used on its own or with other information to identify, contact, or locate a single person, or to identify an individual in context. Please read our privacy policy carefully to get a clear understanding of how we collect, use, protect or otherwise handle your Personally Identifiable Information in accordance with our website. What personal information do we collect from the people that visit our blog, website or app? When ordering or registering on our site, as appropriate, you may be asked to enter your name, email address, mailing address, phone number or other details to help you with your experience. When do we collect information? 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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. Triumphal Entry Photo Gallery Places of Interest Triumphal Entry Introduction Welcome to the Triumphal Entry Path. You are on the very path Jesus walked on Palm Sunday, just a few days before He was crucified. 1. The Triumphal Entry was prophesied in the Old Testament. 2. The Triumphal Entry was fulfilled in the New Testament. 3. The Triumphal Entry, which occurred the Sunday before the Passover, was also lamb selection day for the Passover. 4. Christ descended this path to Jerusalem riding on a donkey. 5. The crowd took branches of palm trees and cried out, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” 6. On this path, at the place marked by the church, Dominus Flevit, Christ paused and wept over Jerusalem. 7. We're in the very footsteps of Jesus as this was the same route He would have taken. Location 1. 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. 2. A church called, Dominus Flevit, is located halfway down the western slope of the Mount of Olives and marks the place where Jesus wept over the future fate of Jerusalem. Historical 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 (Friday the Passover) and rise from the dead the following Sunday. 2. This event was designed by Christ to broadcast to the Nation of Israel that He was their Passover Lamb. 3. It is also referred to as 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 be the beginning of Christ’s last week on earth. 6. The Dominus Flevit Church was built in 1953 to commemorate this important event. 7. The current church stands on the ruins of a 6th-century Byzantine church. Some mosaics of the church still remain. 8. Dominus Flevit is Latin and means, “the Lord wept.” Places of Interest 1. Bethphage (beginning point of the Triumphal Entry) 2. Mount of Olives 3. Triumphal Entry path 4. Dominus Flevit Church 5. Garden of Gethsemane 6. Temple Mount 7. The western window of the Dominus Flevit Church provides a beautiful view of the Temple Mount. 8. A mosaic on the altar of the Dominus Flevit Church has an illustration of a hen gathering her chickens, which is based on 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! 9. Ancient burial caves located by the Dominus Flevit Church. 10. Ossuary boxes ~ Bones of people were placed in these boxes after their bodies had decayed. 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 lamb selection day for the Passover. According to Exodus 12, this was the day set aside for each Israelite family 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 mark their deliverance from Egypt and how God had miraculously saved them. 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 was a symbol of peace; a horse was a symbol of 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!" It was a cry for deliverance from Roman occupation. The last time the Israelites had their freedom during the Maccabean rule from 167–63 BC, their money had the symbol of a palm branch as a sign of freedom. It was like the national flag of a country. It was the Jew’s 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." There are only two times in the Bible where it is noted that 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 from the Triumphal Entry 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 they rejected Him and the coming judgment they would face 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 history of the gates of Jerusalem plays a key role in understanding all God has done throughout its history. See each time period with maps, videos, talks, descriptions, and more. History of the Gates of Jerusalem Photo Gallery Places of Interest History of the Gates of Jerusalem There are eight gates around Old City Jerusalem. Seven are open, and one is closed (Eastern Gate). We'll look at these gates in a clockwise (right to left) circle, starting at the Jaffa Gate. Overview The Old City of Jerusalem covers about one square mile (2.6 square kilometers). The gates are the portals or entry passages into the city. The number of gates has varied over time. Until the Crusader Period (1099–1291), there were just four gates, one on each side of the city. Jaffa Gate (West) Damascus Gate (North) Eastern Gate (East) Zion Gate (South) From 1535 to 1542, the Ottoman ruler Suleiman the Magnificent restored and rebuilt the crumbling Old City walls to protect the city from a feared Crusader invasion. In addition to restoring many of the gates, Suleiman rebuilt two destroyed gates from previous years: Dung Gate Lions' Gate Herod's Gate Suleiman reclosed the Eastern Gate in 1541 AD. In modern times (1875-1889), two additional gates were opened into the city walls. Herod's Gate - Reopened in 1875 New Gate - 1889 Each gate has openings in the wall above it that enable the release of “weapons” such as boiling liquids, arrows, or stones aimed at the attackers below. The Bible records various uses of city gates. At the gates, people finalized business deals (Genesis 23), arranged marriages (Ruth 4), and settled disputes in the presence of witnesses (Amos 5). The king used gates to address his subjects (2 Samuel 18). Many of the gates are named after the location or destination they led toward. A number of the gates are shaped like an "L," designed to slow attackers attempting to enter the city. Jaffa Gate The Jaffa Gate is named so because the road leading from this gate heads westward to the port city of Jaffa, or Joppa. The gate as it stands today was rebuilt in 1538 by the Ottoman sultan Suleiman the Great over the previous gate, which dates back to the time of the Hasmoneans around 140 BC. Facing due west, the Jaffa Gate is the best-known and busiest of the gates of Jerusalem. It is the only gate on the western side of the Old City. Today, it is the primary vehicle entry point into the Old City and one of only two gates in Jerusalem that allow vehicle access. When the German Kaiser Wilhelm II visited the Holy Land and Jerusalem in 1898, the Ottoman authorities opened the city wall beside Jaffa Gate so the Kaiser (emperor) could enter with his vehicle escorts. They also filled in the moat that surround the Tower of David complex. There are many bullet holes in the face of the gate due to wars before and during the Six-Day War in 1967. New Gate It's one of Jerusalem's newer gates. It was built in 1889 with the permission of the Turkish Sultan Abdul Hammid II, who gave it the alternative name The Gate of Hammid. The New Gate is in the northwest corner of the city. It is the only gate in Jerusalem that leads directly into the Christian Quarter. The Gate was built to allow easy access from the many Christian monasteries outside the walls to the Christian Quarter within. The New Gate is the simplest and least adorned of the gates of Jerusalem. Damascus Gate It's located on the northern side of the Old City walls, facing due north to Shechem and beyond to Damascus. The Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent completed the Damascus Gate between 1537 and 1542. It was built over previous gate ruins dating back to the time of Roman Emperor Hadrian, around 135 AD. It is the busiest of Jerusalem's gates, and many claim the most splendid. On Fridays and Saturdays, markets and bazaars make this one of the busiest parts of the city. Directly inside the gate is the Muslim Quarter, which serves as the Old City's Arab business center. During the Byzantine period (324 - 638 AD), it was known as St. Stephen's Gate (although the Lions' Gate is also known as such). Christian tradition claims Stephen was drug out of the city through this gate and stoned on the other side of today's road, becoming the first martyr. Of the two gates of Jerusalem, also named St. Stephen's Gate, this is the most likely sight of Stephen's stoning. The gate is one of the highest in the city because the northern part of the city was the most vulnerable to attacks due to the slope of the terrain. It was built in a double "L" shape to slow down would-be attackers. It was the beginning point of the Cardo Street, which the Roman Emperor Hadrian built around 135 AD. Part of the original gate Hadrian built can be seen to the left and below the newer gate. Ruins from previous gates can also be seen here. The gate Hadrian built was magnificent, with three arches. Arabs mainly use the gate today. Herod's Gate It bears this name because it was once believed to have led to a structure erroneously identified by Christians as Herod Antipas' Palace. The Jewish and Muslim communities know the gate as the Flower Gate, which derives from the floral designs in its architecture. It is located in the northern wall, to the east of the Damascus Gate. Herod's Gate leads into the Muslim Quarter, which provides Muslims with direct access to the Temple Mount. The gate as it stands today was built in 1875. Making it the newest gate of the city. Its main purpose before 1875 was to relieve traffic flow in the city's northern part. It was built with an internal L-shaped structure, like many of the other gates of Jerusalem. The Crusaders broke through the wall in this area to capture the city. Eastern Gate (Golden Gate) Perhaps the most intriguing of the gates of Jerusalem faces east toward the rising sun. East was the direction the Jewish Temple faced and opened up to. The gate was located along Jerusalem's eastern walls, facing east towards the Kidron Valley and Mount of Olives. It is the closest gate to the Temple Mount and, as such, has taken on special significance throughout Jerusalem's history. The Golden Gate is the oldest in Jerusalem, and scholars and archaeologists debate its exact timeline. Ancient stones at the base of the wall strongly suggest it dates back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah (950-700 BC). It contains many biblical prophecies concerning the Messiah's entrance through it. Many of which have already been fulfilled. The Muslims established a cemetery in front of it, thinking this would stop the Messiah from entering through it in the future. Lions' Gate It is the eastern entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem. Like many of Jerusalem's gates, it was built by the Ottomans in 1538-39 AD along the same stretch of walls as the Golden Gate. The Lion's Gate faces the Kidron Valley and Mount of Olives. The gate was originally built with an L-shaped structure, similar to the other Ottoman gates of Jerusalem. However, this L-shaped structure was later altered to allow vehicle access. The gate was also named St. Stephen's Gate, though the Damascus Gate is the likeliest site of Stephen's martyrdom. Four lions decorate the gate's facade, lending the gate its name. These lions were said to have been built by Suleiman under the influence of a dream. The legend goes that Suleiman desired to punish the Jews of Jerusalem. However, he had a dream in which lions devoured him, thus swaying his mind. Instead, he built the Lion's Gate, adding the lions to commemorate the occasion. Dung Gate Of all the gates of Jerusalem, the Dung Gate has unquestionably the most interesting name, and for obvious reasons. It is the smallest, possessing the lowest archway, and is built into the south walls. Like most of Jerusalem's other gates, the present gate was built by Suleiman around 1538 AD. The Dung Gate only allowed foot traffic until 1967, when the opening was enlarged. The Dung Gate derives its name from the fact that refuse and ash were escorted out of the city through this gate and dumped in the Hinnom Valley. It was a gate for trash from not only the Old City but also the Temple Mount. To the west of the gate, part of the original Cardo Minor Roman Emperor Hadrian, built in 135 AD, can be seen. It is the only gate without much defense abilities. This was so because of its location. Today, it's the closest and most used gate to the Western Wall. Tanners' Gate It's not included as one of the main eight gates of Old City Jerusalem. It was a small side entrance a short distance west of the Dung Gate. It's directly over the Cardo Minor Roman Emperor Hadrian, built in 135 AD. It was used to access animal purchases for sacrifices at the temple. It was named the "Tanners' Gate" because of those who tanned the hides of the animals slaughtered for temple sacrifices. Zion Gate This gate faces south and is located along the southwestern walls of the Old City. It is named such because it faces Mount Zion and provides access to It. The gate was rebuilt over previous ones by Suleiman the Magnificent in 1540. It is one of the gates of Jerusalem that lead into the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. Walls near the Zion Gate date from the Hasmonean and Herodian periods of the history of Jerusalem. Like the previously mentioned gates of Jerusalem, the Zion Gate was built with an L-shaped internal structure. One window on each side of the gate lent its distinguishable characteristic. It can support both foot and vehicle traffic. However, vehicles can only exit through the gate, not enter. It has many bullet holes and damage from the 1947 and 1967 wars fought in this area. Other Notable Sites of Old City Jerusalem's Walls Zedekiah's Cave The entrance to Zedekiah's Cave is just beneath the Old City wall, between the Damascus and Herod Gates. It's on the north side of Old City Jerusalem, just outside its walls. Only the cave's mouth is natural. The interior was carved over several thousand years. Zedekiah’s Cave is a 5-acre (2 hectares) underground limestone quarry that stretches under five city blocks of the Muslim Quarter of Old City Jerusalem. It was carved over several thousand years and is a remnant of the largest quarry in Jerusalem. Solomon very likely used this quarry to construct the temple and temple mount platform he built. Herod the Great likely used the main quarry at Zedekiah's Cave as building blocks to renovate the temple and its retaining walls. Stones from the quarry may also have been used for Herod Agrippa I's building projects. The cave was also said to have been King Zedekiah's hiding place when the Babylonians came to siege Jerusalem. Archaeology by the Bethesda Pools Recent discoveries outside the current walls by the pools of Bethesda strongly suggest they were outside the city walls during the time of Christ. Curious Bend in the Eastern Wall This bend marks where the Hasmoneans added onto the Temple Mount Platform around 140 BC. Seam in the Eastern Wall This marks where King Herod added onto the Temple Mount Platform around 19 BC. Southern Stairs The Southern Stairs were one of the main entrances from the south to the Temple Mount during Christ's time. Two main gate entrances led from these stairs up to the Temple Mount Platform. These gates are commonly known as the Hulda Gates. The gate for entering the Temple Mount Platform was on the right (east side), and the gate for leaving the Temple Mount was on the left (western side). King Herod had them redone and staggered them so no one could enter or depart the presence of God (signified by entering or departing the temple area) without being thoughtful in the process. They were the main access to the temple from the City of David and the city's western area, where most of the population lived. There were also many purification mikvehs at the base of the Southern Stairs (around 48 in total). The Southern Stairs were also called “The Rabbis’ Stairs” or the “Teaching Stairs” as rabbis taught their disciples on them. Jesus would have no doubt walked on these stairs and taught His disciples here. It’s also likely that the young Apostle Paul sat here under Gamaliel's teaching (Acts 22:3). It’s very likely that part of Pentecost took place here or ended up here. The Royal Stoa was located just above us on the southern end of the Temple Mount. It was a huge covered portico that ran the whole length of the Temple Mount at the southern part. We don't have time to discuss all the reasons now, but the Hebrew word for house means the House, referring to the temple or a covered structure. It doesn't really refer to a home. So just think that you are in the area where Pentecost took place. And, of course, around here are all these Mikvehs where the 3,000 who received Christ on Pentecost would be baptized. Pilate's Palace Judgment Seat This is the most likely place where Jesus was tried and condemned to crucifixion by Pilate. It has all the archaeological evidence to verify this event. Gate Entrance to Pilate’s Palace from Outside the Palace Steps Leading Up to the Gate Entrance to Pilate's Palace Preserved Wall of Herod the Great Preserved Stone Pavement Bema Seat – Judgment Seat Bema Seat Stone

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

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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

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 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 would also have wide-reaching implications and include 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're going to explore and see both sections of the monument. 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 would also have wide-reaching implications and include 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 would have done 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. This can be verified, as pottery and artifacts dating back to King David's time, around 1000 BC, have been found in the caves. 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. It had access from this floor down to the caves. Later, during the Muslim Period, the access would be 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 just 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 Byzantine church and other buildings were remodeled, with 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 is from 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. In around 1320, 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. There are two caves side by side where all the Patriarchs and their wives are buried. However, the tomb marker of Abraham is directly over the caves. 11. From 1267 to 1967, Jews were not allowed any access inside the structure. They were only allowed to approach as far as the seventh step of the southern steps of the 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. I should mention that 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. It's under this floor where the original caves are located. 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, which led down to them. 2. The word Machpelah means double or side by side. This refers to the two caves located beside each other, where the three patriarchs and their wives were buried. Access to the caves is currently not permitted. There are two accesses to the caves. One is through a narrow shaft measuring about 11 inches (28 centimeters). The other is called the Serdab entrance and 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 Defence Minister and an amateur archaeologist, attempted to regain access to the tombs. Ignorant of the Serdab entrance, Dayan concentrated his attention on the narrow shaft entrance visible below the decorative grate and had the idea of sending 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 could see 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. The 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, which 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 1. Cave of the Patriarchs (Machpelah) Jewish Synagogue Mosque Tombs of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs 2. Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida) Abraham’s Well Ancient Stairs Tomb of Jesse and Ruth (King David’s father and great-grandmother) Old Olive Trees Ancient Canaanite City Walls The Canaanite wall overlaid by a glacis from the Israelite period Walls and a stone road from the time of Abraham Likely place of King David's Palace Four-room structure from the time of King Hezekiah Ancient Synagogue Stepped street from the Early Roman period Pottery workshop from the Early Roman period Eastern ritual bath from the Early Roman period Western ritual bath from the Early Roman period New Excavations Hebron Observatory 3. Oaks of Mamre (located within Hebron, 1 mile or 1.5 km north of the Cave of Machpelah). 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 and embrace the promises of God? 2. Caleb was one of the faithful spies who received Hebron as a reward. Are we faithful like Caleb, and do we have our hope placed 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 are we desiring to serve Him in significant ways as David did?

We have led many tour trips to Israel during tension and unrest. Hear our perspective as experienced tour guides who have made many trips to Israel. Must see perspective for anyone concerned with what's happening in Israel, and if they should take a tour trip at this time. Is It Safe to Travel to Israel During Unrest? Safety In Israel We know the current war might be causing you to reconsider going to Israel at this time. However, here is some information and context to help you. 1. We have tour guide colleagues in Israel leading teams there right now. Things are safe with no issues. They are having a great time and enjoying all the sites. 2. Right now, we can visit all of the sites on our itinerary. 3. Security in Israel is better than ever right now. There have been virtually no terrorist attacks inside Israel since the war began. 4. Israel is open for business: all restaurants, hotels, parks, services, etc., are functioning normally. 5. Ben Gurion Airport is functioning normally, with all major airlines operating without issues. 6. Israel is winning the war with Hamas and should have Gaza under complete control soon. 7. The war is happening in Gaza, not within the country of Israel. We will not be touring any sites in or close to Gaza. 8. Our tour bus driver assures us that things are safe for tourism in Israel right now. 9. There are far fewer tourists in Israel, so some of the sites that are difficult to see due to long lines are very accessible. Now is a great time to visit Israel. 10. We know the current situation could seem scary to you, but we have traveled throughout Israel many times during tensions and have not felt unsafe. Virtually all of the country functions normally with no issues. Therefore, we want to assure you that we are moving forward with our tour trips and have no plans to cancel them. Other Safety Concerns Good News Before I share the inside perspective on tension and unrest in Israel, let me share some good news from our bus driver, with whom we are in regular contact about safety for the tour trips we lead to Israel. Here’s his quote: “Do not worry, my brother, the conditions here are not as the media presents. I now have an American group in these conditions during this month of Ramadan [Muslim Holy Month], and everything is going on safely, and there are no problems.” This quote comes during a time of high tension in Israel during Ramadan. Now, let’s discuss the inside story of what’s happening in Israel and whether we should be concerned. Spiritual Warfare All that’s happening can be traced to spiritual warfare. The Israeli government has been passing new laws allowing Jews to go up to the Temple Mount. The Muslims don’t like this, so they gather rocks and things inside the Al Aqsa Mosque to throw at the Jews when they’re up there. We saw this firsthand recently. The Israeli police have therefore gone into the Al Aqsa Mosque to clear this out and arrest the Muslim protesters. The Temple Mount authority has been given to the Muslims, but the Israeli police control the security there. The surrounding places, like Gaza and Lebanon, support the Muslims and therefore are aiding them in this spiritual warfare. Ramadan Ramadan is a Muslim holy month. During this time, there is always more tension because the Muslims engage more in Jihad. So this explains why there is more tension during this time. After Ramadan, things will settle down considerably. This is why we don’t plan our trips to Israel during Ramadan. Also, it’s hard to go onto the Temple Mount during Ramadan because it’s so busy with Muslims. Most Arabs Are Very Friendly Every experience we have had with Arabs has been highly positive. They tend to love tourists and view them as a positive influence. Our Experiences In Israel During Unrest We have been in Israel during some terrorist attacks and didn’t even know it until we heard it on the news or someone told us. I’ll briefly share two incidents. A few years ago, my wife and I were filming a Bible teaching on the Mount of Olives and heard some helicopter noise. It was somewhat annoying, but we didn't think much of it, as airplanes and helicopters are quite common in Israel. They patrol their skies quite well. Later, we learned that an Arab had run into some Jews by the Damascus bus station. We were just a quarter mile away from this incident. It was dealt with, and life went back to normal very quickly. Later, we took the light rail train that departs beside the Damascus bus station, where this event happened, to our hotel. We didn’t even know what had happened until later. On a recent tour trip to Israel with a group, we visited Pilate’s Palace, discussing the location of Jesus' trial. During the teaching, we heard some sirens and so forth. Later, we learned there had been a terrorist attack inside Old City Jerusalem. After our teaching, we entered the Old City and would never have known anything had happened if we hadn’t been told. We must understand that things happen in a moment in time and then return to normal. This is normal for Israel. We’ll Avoid Any Hotspots If, by chance, an incident were to happen, we would avoid it. Our bus driver is an Arab Christian and has been driving tour buses for many years. He will not lead us into any danger. While in Jerusalem, the Israeli police are incredible and provide fantastic security. Also, tourists are not targeted. In fact, they are welcomed. The tension is between Muslims and Jews. Israel’s Iron Dome Defense System Israel has developed a sophisticated Iron Dome that shoots most rockets fired into Israel. The chances of us being hit by a missile are one in a million. It’s not like rockets are raining down from heaven everywhere in Israel. God’s Sovereignty The hairs on our heads and our days are numbered. We won’t die one minute sooner or later than what God has determined for us, so we can rest in His sovereignty and enjoy His peace and will for us. I tell those who think I am taking a risk in going to Israel that if God determines it’s my time to die, I couldn’t think of a better place to go to be in the presence of the Lord (which is much better than this life) than the Holy Land. We are not worried about safety issues in Israel. We fully trust the Lord’s perfect will for us, so we are at peace with our trips. We have gone to Israel many times in the midst of some unrest and haven’t had any issues. Some incidents happen on occasion, and most of the time, those in Israel don’t even know what’s happened until they hear it on the news. We won’t be canceling any upcoming tour trips to Israel, as we have visited the country many times during unrest, and virtually all of it functions normally regardless of what’s happening in a particular area. However, if you feel uncomfortable, we understand. We Don’t Cancel Our Trip s Unless There Is Extreme Danger Based on the above info, we have no plans to cancel any upcoming tour trip to Israel. We know it’s hard for some to understand this without having been to Israel. However, life goes on as usual for 99.9 percent of the population, and for those whose lives are interrupted, it’s only for a short time. Then it quickly passes, and life goes back to normal.

See a powerful message from the Hippodrome in Beth Shean, Israel, about the persecution and suffering of Christians. Prepare yourself for persecution because the day is coming when suffering and persecution will arise. The amphitheater/hippodrome was also used to persecute Christians during the early church period and later. On many occasions, they were released in a game-like event where believers who refused to deny Christ were torn to pieces and eaten alive while the crowd roared in a frenzy. Beth-Shean Amphitheater/Hippodrome Photo Gallery Places of Interest Beth-Shean Amphitheater Location 1. Beth-Shean, also known as Beit Shean or Bet She’an, was a major biblical and secular city for thousands of years. 2. It’s located in the center of several main crossroads between the Jordan Valley and the Jezreel (Yizreel) Valley. 3. It’s about 15 miles (25 Km.) south of the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee and about 35 miles (55 Km.) east of the Mediterranean Sea. 4. The Romans used the amphitheater/hippodrome in Bet-Shean for pleasure events, games with animals, and gladiator-type activities. 5. This arena seems to have served as both an amphitheater and hippodrome as it has openings into the arena from under the grandstands. It was common in Greek and Roman times that a city would have one stadium that could be used for both purposes because of financial and real estate reasons. 6. An amphitheater is different from a theater. An amphitheater has a full circle of seating, wherein a theater just has a semi-circle of seating. 7. The amphitheater/hippodrome was also used to persecute Christians during the early church period and later. 8. This amphitheater/hippodrome has underground rooms where wild beasts were released to devour people and other animals. 9. On many occasions, they were released in a game-like event where believers who refused to deny Christ were torn to pieces and eaten alive while the crowd roared in a frenzy. 10. It’s sobering and gives a person chills to just think about it! Historical Background 1. Beth-Shean was a key city long before the arrival of the Israelites because of its location. In the late Canaanite period (1600–1400 BC), the Egyptians ruled the area and the entire land of Israel. 2. Later, around 1000 BC, the Philistines also ruled the city for a time as they hung the body of King Saul on its walls after defeating the armies of Israel in the Battle of Gilboa. 3. When King David reigned (1010–970 BC), he conquered Beth-Shean, and it became part of Israel’s territories. 4. Later, in 732 BC, the Assyrian king, Tiglath-Pileser III, destroyed Beth-Shean after defeating the northern Kingdom of Israel. 5. In the 4th century BC, Hellenistic (Greek) new settlers established a city-state (polis) in Beth-Shean. During the Hellenistic period, the city was named Nisa Scythopolis. 6. In 63 BC, the city was conquered by the Romans and became one of the cities of the Decapolis – a group of cities with a Hellenistic-Roman cultural character, most of them in Transjordan. Beth-Shean was one of the key cities of the Roman Empire in this area south of Galilee. Places of Interest (Please See Maps Above) 1. The Arena: Comes from the word “sand.” It’s where the activities were carried out and was in the center. 2. Grandstands where the people were seated. The stadium’s many seats have crumbled over the years, but it’s estimated the seating capacity would have been between 10,000-20,000 people. 3. Entrance openings into the arena from under the grandstands. 4. Rooms under the grandstands where the animals and people would wait before being released into the area. The Amphitheater in the Bible 1. Persecution was a common practice, and the Bible makes reference to what many believers faced. Hebrews 11:35–38: Some were tortured, refusing to accept release so that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated of whom the world was not worthy, wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. Acts 7 records how Stephen was one of the first to suffer early Christian persecution. He was stoned to death outside the gates for the faithful manner in which he preached the gospel. After this, a great persecution arose against all who professed belief in Christ as the Messiah. Acts 8:1: And Saul approved of his [Stephen] execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2. History and tradition provide rich data regarding the believed fate of many of the apostles, along with other believers who suffered persecution for their faith in Christ during the early church period. James the Great, the elder brother of John the Apostle, was beheaded in 44 A.D. Philip, who served in Upper Asia, was scourged in Phrygia, thrown into prison, and later crucified in 54 A.D. Matthew, the tax collector, served the Lord in Parthia and Ethiopia, where he was slain with a halberd (a shafted weapon with an ax-like cutting blade and a speared end) in the city of Nadabah in 60 A.D. James the Less, the brother of the Lord, served the church in Jerusalem and wrote the book of James. He suffered martyrdom at the age of 94 by being beaten and stoned by the Jews. Matthias, the man who was chosen to replace Judas as an apostle, was stoned at Jerusalem and then beheaded. Andrew, the brother of Peter, preached the gospel to many Asiatic nations and was crucified on a cross at Edessa. The ends of his cross were fixed transversely in the ground, thus the derivation of the term, St. Andrew's cross. Mark was converted to Christianity by Peter and served as his personal scribe. He was dragged to pieces and died by the people of Alexandria. The Apostle Peter was sought by Nero to be put to death. Jerome wrote that Peter was crucified with his head down and his feet up because he thought himself unworthy to be crucified in the same way as Christ. The Apostle Paul was persecuted all throughout his ministry. He was scourged, stoned, and finally, Nero had him beheaded by a sword. Jude, the brother of James, commonly called Thaddeus, was crucified at Edessa in A.D. 72. Bartholomew preached in several countries and translated the Gospel of Matthew into the language of India. He was cruelly beaten and then crucified by impatient idolaters. Thomas (doubting Thomas) preached the gospel in Parthia and India. His ministry caused the rage of the pagan priests, and he was martyred by being thrust through with a spear. Luke, the author of Luke and Acts, traveled with Paul through various countries and was supposed to have been hanged on an olive tree by the idolatrous priests of Greece. Simon the Zealot preached the gospel in Mauritania, Africa, and even Britain, where he was crucified in A.D. 74. John, the apostle whom Jesus loved, was sent from Ephesus to Rome, where he was put into a cauldron of boiling oil. He escaped by a miracle without injury but was then banished to the Isle of Patmos, and there he wrote the book of Revelation. Nerva, Domitian's successor, said he was the only apostle who escaped a violent death. 3. There are ten persecutions mentioned in Foxe's Book of Martyrs that are quite gruesome. The first mass persecution occurred under Nero in 67 AD. He was the sixth emperor of Rome and is remembered as the one who set Rome aflame and then blamed the Christians for the deaths and destruction caused by the fire. He had some Christians sewn up in skins of wild beasts and thrown to the dogs. Some Christians were dressed in shirts made stiff with wax, fixed to axletrees, and set on fire in Nero’s gardens in order to illuminate them. Rather than diminishing the spirit of Christianity, this persecution increased the devotion and commitment of Christians instead. The second persecution happened under Domitian in 81 AD. Anything bad that happened like famine, pestilence, or earthquakes he blamed on the Christians and put them to death. The third persecution occurred under Trajan in 108 AD. Christians were beaten, beheaded, and devoured by wild beasts, causing about ten thousand Christians to be put to death. The fourth persecution took place under Marcus Aurelius Antoninus in 162 AD. The fifth persecution is credited to Severus in 192 AD. Christians were burned at the stake, had hot tar poured on their heads, beheaded, placed in boiling water, and ravaged by wild beasts. The sixth persecution took place under Maximus in 235 AD. At this time, numerous Christians were slain without trial and buried indiscriminately in mass graves, sometimes fifty or sixty cast into a pit together. The seventh persecution happened under Decius in 249 AD. The main person martyred was Fabian, the bishop of Rome, who was beheaded on January 20, 250 AD. The eighth persecution occurred under Valerian in 257 AD. Once again, every manner of torture was used to mock those claiming to be Christians. Persecution was also used for the entertainment of the rulers and their guests. The ninth persecution occurred under Aurelian in 274 AD. when Felix, bishop of Rome, was martyred. The tenth persecution took place under Diocletian in 303 AD. This was commonly called the Era of the Martyrs. Persecutions were carried out with racks, scourges, swords, daggers, crosses, poisons, and famine. Today, there are more martyrs for Christ than there have ever been at any time in the history of the church. Many of these take place in the Middle East and go unnoticed by the public eye. According to BBC News, there are around 100,000–250,000 martyrs each year for Christ. Faith Lesson from Beth-Shean Amphitheater 1. God used persecution to give more validity, power, and meaning to the message of the gospel. 2. We show the world the value of our faith by what it cost us to keep and obey it. 3. During the years between 313 and 325 AD., Constantine, the Roman Emperor of that time, became a Christian and later declared Christianity the religion of the Roman Empire. 4. It was the persecution of Christians that God used most to convert the Roman Empire to Christianity. 5. Through persecution, God changed the religion of the most powerful nation on the earth to Christianity. 6. The church has seen its greatest growth and maturity during the periods it was persecuted the most. 7. We are nearing a time when it is going to cost us to follow Christ as well. Hebrews 12:1-6: Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses , let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 8. Are we willing to suffer for our faith? 9. What does it cost us to follow Christ? 10. Do we stand firm on God’s word despite opposition? 11. Do we allow ourselves to be persuaded to compromise our faith because of pressure from our peers? 12. Do we subtly deny Christ in moments when we’re around people who don’t share our faith? 13. The only thing these Christians who died in this amphitheater here in Beth-Shean would have had to do to save their lives and not be shredded to pieces by the wild beast was to deny Christ. 14. But they didn’t, and today they have a special reward in heaven for being a martyr. 15. How about us? Are we willing to do the same?