This is the site early Christians venerated in the story of the Good Samaritan. It was proposed in the early Christian centuries as a place to commemorate this event and strengthen the faith of believers. Today, this place is called the Inn of the Good Samaritan. It has a museum with many mosaics and artifacts from other synagogues and discoveries. Inn of the Good Samaritan & Museum Photo Gallery Places of Interest Inn of the Good Samaritan Location 1. The Inn of the Good Samaritan is located about 8.5 miles (13.5 km.) east of Jerusalem on Hwy. 1 and about 6.5 (10.5 km.) west of Jericho. 2. The Inn is about halfway between Jerusalem and Jericho on an ancient road that linked traffic from the Jordan Valley to Jerusalem and the coastal towns of the Mediterranean Ocean. 3. The famous story of the Good Samaritan took place on this road. Historical Background 1. Interestingly, Jesus used real places and people in the story of the Good Samaritan, i.e., road, Jerusalem, Jericho, robbers, Samaritans, priests, Levites, and the Inn. Therefore, the possibility exists that the story was actually a real event that had happened. 2. The ancient road connecting the Jordan Valley to Jerusalem and beyond had an elevation difference of 3,400 ft. (1,036 m.). Jericho is at 800 ft. (244 m.) below sea level, and Jerusalem is at 2,600 ft. (792 m.) above sea level. 3. It was a dangerous road that was desolate in steep, curvy places with crooks, crannies, and caves where bandits and robbers could hide and get away easily in the desert. It also lacked police protection in many places. 4. It was about 15 miles (24 km.) between Jerusalem and Jericho. 5. Around 12,000 priests and Levites lived in Jericho who used this road whenever they were summoned to serve in the temple in Jerusalem. 6. The rocky desert terrain around the Inn of the Good Samaritan was notorious for robbers. The local name for the area is Ma‘ale Adummim, which means red rocks. It’s believed the name was derived from the limestone stained red by iron oxide, but it’s also believed its name is due to the amount of blood that was spilled here by bandits and robbers. 7. Jesus and His disciples would have used this road repeatedly as they traveled between Jerusalem and Jericho. 8. The Inn of the Good Samaritan Although it’s not certain that the inn Jesus mentioned in the story of the Good Samaritan was a real place, a site was proposed in the early Christian centuries as a place to commemorate this event. Today, it’s called the Inn of the Good Samaritan. The site was inhabited in the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and remains from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD were discovered during the excavations of the Inn. In the 6th century, a Byzantine church and monastery with pilgrim accommodations were erected on the site of what was probably some sort of travelers’ hostel well before the time of Jesus. Later, the Crusaders built a fortress on a nearby hill to protect pilgrims against robbers. The remains of the monastery later became an Ottoman Inn. In the 1800s, the Ottomans built a rectangular structure over the ruins of the southern wall of the Crusader Fortress. The current museum at this site was opened in 2009. Places of Interest 1. Byzantine Church 2. Museum (has many mosaics and artifacts from around Israel) 3. Cave 1, 2 4. Crusader Fortress 5. Hwy. 1 6. Jericho 7. Jerusalem 8. Ancient Road from Jericho to Jerusalem 9. Wadi Qelt The Story of the Good Samaritan in the Bible 1. A lawyer (student of Scripture) tested Jesus regarding what a person had to do to receive eternal life. Luke 10:25-28: And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind [Deut. 6:5]; and your neighbor as yourself [Lev. 19:18].” 2. Attempting to justify himself, the lawyer asked a follow-up question about what the term “neighbor” meant. Luke 10:29: And He said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.” But wishing to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 3. To illustrate who our neighbor is, Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10:30-34: Jesus replied and said, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among robbers, and they stripped him and beat him, and went away leaving him half dead. And by chance a priest was going down on that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. Likewise, a Levite also, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan who was on a journey, came upon him; and when he saw him, he felt compassion, and came to him and bandaged up his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them; and he put him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn and took care of him. The priests were the spiritual leaders and oversaw the temple. The Levites were servants in the temple. Samaritans were unfaithful Jews who intermarried with foreign unbelievers and established their own religion. The Samaritans were despised and rejected by the Jews and considered unclean. The Samaritans, likewise, despised the Jews and had few dealings with them. Any traveler from Samaria would have been regarded as an alien in Judea. Luke 10:35-37: On the next day, he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper and said, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I return, I will repay you.’ Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers’ hands?” And he said, “The one who showed mercy toward him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do the same .” A denarius was about a day’s wage. Today, it would be around $200 dollars for an average worker. The Samaritan gave the innkeeper two denarii for a total of $400 dollars. The Good Samaritan was willing to spend even more money on the hurt man, meaning that what he had already given was just a start. Faith Lesson from the Good Samaritan 1. Our neighbor is anyone with a genuine need whom we find in our path. 2. The wounded man the Samaritan helped was not a family member, a friend, or an acquaintance; he was a total stranger. 3. The Samaritan spent a large sum of money to help heal the wounded man with no expectation or guarantee of being repaid. 4. It’s not what we see but what we do that makes us a neighbor. 5. Jesus emphasized that it’s not just what we believe that matters, but what we do that shows we are truly saved. 6. While we should help the wounded with physical needs, we should also help the wounded with their spiritual needs as well. The greatest need everyone has is salvation. Do we share our faith and give the greatest gift possible to those in need spiritually? 7. We should keep in mind that not every want or need others might have is legitimate. 8. God doesn’t want us to reward wrong motives and laziness. 2 Thessalonians 3:10-11: For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat , either. For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all , but acting like busybodies.

The New Testament mentions Bethphage as the place from which Jesus sent his disciples to find a colt on which he would ride into Jerusalem. It is located between Bethany and the top of the Mount of Olives. Bethphage Photo Gallery Places of Interest Bethphage Location 1. Bethphage is about 1 mile (2 km.) from the modern village of al-Azariya. 2. It's located on the southern part of the Mount of Olives between Bethany and Jerusalem. 3. Eusebius (Jewish Historian from around 300 AD) located it on the Mount of Olives. 4. It was likely on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. 5. It was within the limit of a Sabbath-day's journey from Jerusalem, (2,000 cubits, 900 yards or meters). Historical Background 1. Bethphage means "House of Unripe Figs." This is fitting as it was in this area that Jesus caused a fig tree with no fruit to wither (Matt. 21:18-22). 2. Today, a Franciscan Church marks the spot where it's believed the disciples of Jesus got the donkey upon which Jesus would use for riding into Jerusalem in what is known as the "Triumphal Entry," which took place on the Sunday before His crucifixion (Palm Sunday). 3. The modern church, built in 1883, rests on the foundations of a 12th-century Crusader Chapel located in the ancient village of Bethphage. 4. It was built beside the steep road that descends from the Mount of Olives eastwards towards the village of el-Azariyeh (ancient Bethany). 5. The Crusader-era Chapel was built on the foundations of a 4th-century Byzantine shrine commemorating the meeting between Lazarus' sister Martha and Jesus. 6. In 1867, during the construction of a Franciscan monastery on the grounds, a cube-shaped stone covered in plaster was discovered. This stone, now called the Stele of Bethphage, was an integral part of the 12th-century Crusader Chapel and now lies near the northern wall of the church. 7. The Crusaders decorated the stone and inscribed it in Latin, as well as described biblical events that occurred in the areas of Jerusalem and Bethphage. 8. In 1950, the decorations on the stone were restored, and five years later, in 1955, frescos were drawn on the walls and ceiling of the sanctuary. Today, as in the 12th century, pilgrims hold a Palm Sunday procession that begins at the Bethphage Church. 9. Inside the Franciscan Church of Bethphage Above the altar in the church is a mural of Jesus riding the donkey and being glorified by the crowd who accompanied Him. On display in the church, protected by a wrought iron grille, is a large square rock that the Crusaders regarded as the rock upon which Jesus used to mount the donkey. On the sides of the rock are medieval paintings, restored in 1950. These depict the disciples getting the donkey, people holding palm branches, the resurrection of Lazarus at nearby Bethany, and the inscription “Bethphage.” Foundations from the Crusader Chapel can easily be seen near the floor of the apse. Behind the altar is a fresco depicting Jesus riding a donkey to the Temple, accompanied by his disciples. The church ceiling features drawings of flowers and leaves. The wall frescos, colored in shades of brown, portray people from the New Testament era preparing for the procession. On one wall, a group of rabbis holds a scroll that contains the second part of the verse from (John 12:19). The words written in Latin around the windows are those that the people used to say about Jesus during the procession into the city. The main focus of the church is the Stele of Bethphage, which is set apart by wrought iron railings. There is a mirror behind the stone so that visitors can easily see the drawings on all four sides. The drawings depict the meeting between Jesus and Martha; two disciples bringing Jesus an ass and a colt, Lazarus rising from the dead, and on the side facing the altar, a drawing of a crowd of people holding palms. 10. Just up the hill is a Greek Orthodox church whose courtyard offers a view and a place for reflection. Places of Interest 1. Bethany 2. Mount of Olives 3. Triumphal Entry Path 4. Dominus Flevit Church (where Jesus wept over Jerusalem) 5. Jerusalem 6. Garden of Gethsemane 7. Temple Mount 8. Kidron Valley Bethphege in the Bible Bethphage is mentioned in the New Testament as the place in ancient Israel where Jesus sent his disciples to find a colt upon which he would ride into Jerusalem. The Synoptic Gospels mention it as being close to Bethany, where he stayed immediately before his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. 1. Jesus sends two of His disciples to get an untamed donkey. Matthew 21:1-3: Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage , to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will send them at once.” 2. This donkey had a colt, upon which no one had ever ridden. Mark 11:1-2: Now when they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples 2 and said to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat . Untie it and bring it. This was a miracle because untamed donkeys will buck, run, and do whatever they can to dismount their rider. 3. Jesus riding a donkey fulfilled Old Testament prophecies (Is. 62:11; Zch. 9:9). Matthew 21:4-5: This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet , saying, 5 “Say to the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.’” 4. Triumphal Entry Matthew 21:6-11: The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. 8 Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” 10 And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?” 11 And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.” 5. During the Triumphal Entry, Jesus pauses and weeps over Jerusalem. The Church of Dominus Flevit marks this spot today. Luke 19:41: 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.” 6. Jesus Cleanses the Temple Matthew 21:12-13: And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 13 He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.” 7. The people marvel at Christ's miracles and teachings. Matthew 21:14-16: And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he healed them . 15 But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did , and the children crying out in the temple, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they were indignant, 16 and they said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, “‘Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise’?” 8. Jesus curses a fig tree and teaches about prayer. Matthew 21:18-22: In the morning, as he was returning to the city, he became hungry. 19 And seeing a fig tree by the wayside, he went to it and found nothing on it but only leaves. And he said to it, “May no fruit ever come from you again!” And the fig tree withered at once . 20 When the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, “How did the fig tree wither at once?” 21 And Jesus answered them, “Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt , you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ it will happen. 22 And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” Faith Lesson 1. Jesus embedded in the lives of His disciples that He was God. Do we believe in the deity of Christ and that He was God in the flesh? 2. Throughout Jesus's life, we see He constantly fulfilled many Old Testament prophecies, which proves that He was divine and authentic. Do we believe Jesus was divine and who He claimed to be? 3. Jesus taught a powerful lesson about faith and prayer. Do we pray and believe God can help us?

Solomon's Temple was located at the same place where Abraham was to sacrifice his son, Isaac, to God. King David then purchased the original place when it was a threshing floor. He purchased it to build an altar to the Lord. Solomon then built the Temple in this exact location. Construction on Solomon’s temple began in 960 BC. It took 7 years to build the first temple. When the Temple was dedicated, the Ark of the Covenant was put in it. The temple was to be a House of Prayer for all nations. Temple Mount: Solomon's Temple Temple Mount: Solomon’s Temple Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of the temple mount where the original temple Solomon built was dedicated. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at this key event from Scripture that took place here. The location of the temple was the same place where Abraham was to sacrifice his son, Isaac, to God. Gen. 22:1: “After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I." He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt-offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." King David then purchased the original Temple Mount when it was a threshing floor. He purchased it to build an altar to the Lord. 1 Chron. 21:18: “Now the angel of the LORD had commanded Gad to say to David that David should go up and raise an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.” King Solomon then built the Temple in this exact location. 2 Chron. 3:1: “Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the LORD had appeared to David his father, at the place that David had appointed, on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite." Construction on Solomon’s temple began in 960 BC. 1 Kings 6:1: “In the four hundred and eightieth year after the people of Israel came out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, which is the second month, he began to build the house of the LORD.” It took 7 years to build the first temple. 1 Kings 6:37-38:, “In the fourth year the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid, in the month of Ziv. And in the eleventh year, in the month of Bul, which is the eighth month, the house was finished in all its parts, and according to all its specifications. He was seven years in building it.” When the Temple was dedicated, and the Ark of the Covenant put in it, God filled it with such brilliant glory that the priests had to suspend their dedication activities until it subsided. 1 Kings 8:1-10: “Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes, the leaders of the fathers' houses of the people of Israel, before King Solomon in Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which is Zion. And all the men of Israel assembled to King Solomon at the feast in the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month. And all the elders of Israel came, and the priests took up the ark. And they brought up the ark of the LORD, the tent of meeting, and all the holy vessels that were in the tent; the priests and the Levites brought them up. And King Solomon and all the congregation of Israel, who had assembled before him, were with him before the ark, sacrificing so many sheep and oxen that they could not be counted or numbered. Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD to its place in the inner sanctuary of the house, in the Most Holy Place, underneath the wings of the cherubim. And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, a cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD. During the dedication of the temple, Solomon prays a prayer of dedication. 1 Kings 8:22-24: “Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spread out his hands toward heaven, and said, "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you, in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and showing steadfast love to your servants who walk before you with all their heart, who have kept with your servant David my father what you declared to him. You spoke with your mouth, and with your hand have fulfilled it this day. The temple was to be a House of Prayer for all nations, not just for Israel. 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." What can we observe and learn from these events that happened at this significant place? As we can see, the temple has played a key role as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. It will play a key part during the Millennial Reign of Christ on the earth as well. God has chosen to focus His presence and attention here like a laser beam from heaven like no other place. What about us? In the Old Testament, the temple was the center place where God dwelt, in the New Testament we are now the temple of God as He dwells in our hearts by faith. 1 Cor. 3:16, 17, says, “Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple.” What kind of temple am I?

Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel. In-depth Bible-centered tour trips to Israel. October 17-November 2, 2025, 17-Day Package Trip. Affordable tours of all the biblical sites in Israel: Jerusalem, Sea of Galilee, Jordan Valley, Baptismal Site of Jesus, Jericho, Masada, Dead Sea, and much more. Holy Land Tour Trip to Is rael The Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime October 17~November 2, 2025 17-Day Trip The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart the tour at any time. Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Status of Our Holy Land Tour Trips We are leading trips to Israel and have had no safety issues. All our trips are proceeding as scheduled with no cancellation plans for future trips. Please see the video below about our last trip we led during the conflict in Israel. Would you like to have a life-changing and never-to-be-forgotten experience in the Holy Land? If so, it is our joy to invite you to join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible, where you will find a new dimension in understanding the Bible and the life of Jesus. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, walked on the water, calmed the sea, and where He was crucified and raised from the dead. We will immerse ourselves in the Land of the Bible and experience it to the depths of our souls. You will never be the same or read your Bible the same after a trip like this. If it's Bible you want, then this trip is for you. At each site, we will give biblical and historical teaching along with a faith lesson. Therefore, this trip is designed to provide an in-depth study and perspective from the Scriptures of the events and places of the Bible. Our goal is to offer a highly biblical, non-touristy, and inspirational trip to the Land of the Bible. Our trips also include sites that are off the beaten path. ___________________ "An absolutely amazing trip with a guy who knows his Bible and can relate it to you in-country. I've gone to Israel with this dear friend of mine twice. It's an 11 out of 10 trip!" Dan Reeves "I've looked and looked, but I just haven't found any groups with the same approach I got spoiled by when we went with you to Israel. Also, they're not really Bible-teaching tours. Your teaching tour is still head and shoulders above anything else, so if it works out, I'd like to go with you again next year." Todd Yaney Quick Links Holy Land Trip Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,450 USD Hotel Reservation Bookings & Airplane Flights About Your Tour Hosts Trip Registration, Deposits, Payment Info Passports & ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter the state of Israel Itinerary Holy Land Trip Travel Orientation Helpful Holy Land Learning Resources Anchor 5 The Holy Land Experience! 17-Day Trip (Including Travel to and from Israel) Holy Land Site Fee: $ 1, 9 50 USD Items paid for by Holy Land Site Ministries: Transportation in Israel Via a Deluxe A/C Motorcoach All Park & Entrance Passes Holy Land Site Tour Guide and Bible Teacher (Dr. Todd Fink) Wireless Headsets for a Better Listening Experience Individual Costs: $2,800 USD (Estimated Costs) To keep our trips as affordable as possible, we have individuals book their lodging, airfare, and pay for their own meals. Items paid for by each individual: The costs below are estimates. Your price may vary depending on airfare from your location, room selections, and how expensive you want to eat. Meals in Israel $450 per person Lodging in Israel (found on the itinerary) $1,200 per person (Based on private, double occupancy rooms.) Airfare $1,100 per person Personal transportation in Israel $50 per person Note: Personal transportation means travel from Ben Gurion Airport to Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel in Tel Aviv and from Prima Park Hotel in Jerusalem to Ben Gurion Airport. Taxis are the best method of transportation. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate everyone's time schedules due to passengers' different arrival and departure times. However, we are happy to help in any way possible with these arrangements. Total Cost of Trip Holy Land Site Fee $1, 9 50 Individual Costs $2,800 (Estimated Costs) Total $4, 7 50 USD THIS IS A CUSTOM-DESIGNED TRIP If you want to spend more time in Israel and see more holy sites, this trip is designed for you. Most trips to the Holy Land include around 7-8 full days in Israel. This severely limits what can be seen. Therefore, most who go to the Holy Land miss seeing many significant holy sites. Our trips include 13 full touring days in Israel. This allows you to see almost every significant site in Israel. A 17-day trip like ours is typically quite expensive (if you can find one). Why can we do it so inexpensively? We eliminate tour companies, travel agencies, tour guides, etc., and provide these services instead. We also allow you to book your airfare and lodging and give you the freedom to eat meals as you wish. We are pleased to serve you and our Lord Jesus Christ by offering you this unique and affordable trip of a lifetime. Because this is a custom trip, each participant is required to book their own airfare, lodging, and purchase their own meals. DO WE OFFER SHORTER TOUR TRIPS? If the length of the trip is too long, you are welcome to start or end at any time. You are not obligated to be a part of the entire trip. MEALS IN ISRAEL (Paid by Each Individual) Eating in Israel is really quite simple. Below is what most people on our tours do: Breakfast ~ The hotels provide a large buffet-style breakfast, which can be paid for when you book your lodging or at the hotel. Eating breakfast at the hotels is ideal and recommended, as it's very convenient. However, you can eat breakfast at a local restaurant or make it yourself in your hotel room if desired (all rooms have small refrigerators). Lunch ~ Because eating out is expensive in Israel, time-consuming with a large group, and we will not always be close to a restaurant while sightseeing, each trip participant will need to prepare a daily sack lunch. Lunch items can be purchased at local grocery stores, or extra items and your leftovers from the breakfast buffets at the hotels can be taken. All hotels have refrigerators in the rooms if needed. Dinner ~ Many enjoy the local culture by eating out at local restaurants. However, if you prefer eating at the hotels, they provide large buffet-style dinners. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Those considering this trip need to be in reasonably good shape. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). Each day will consist of about 8 hours of sightseeing. If desired, you are welcome to take a day off or stay on the tour bus to rest at any time during the trip. GROUP SIZE LIMIT In order to have a more intimate and better experience, we limit our group size to around 40 people. This allows us to be more efficient and see more places in Israel. Larger teams bring a different dynamic that slows things down and makes travel more difficult. AIR TRAVEL Each person will be responsible for booking their own air travel to Israel (Ben Gurion Airport). Please plan to arrive with plenty of time to attend our required orientation and get-acquainted meeting at 7:00 pm at our Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel in Tel Aviv. Due to customs, obtaining visas, picking up your luggage, etc., please allow 3 hours from airport arrival to hotel arrival. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Note: For those with the time and resources, arriving a day early will allow you to rest up and better prepare for your experience in Israel. TRANSPORTATION IN ISRAEL We will be transported via a large, air-conditioned motorcoach . Our bus driver is an Arab Christian who is able to take us to all sites in Israel. LODGING IN ISRAEL During our time in Israel, we will stay at nice hotels with private rooms and bathrooms. Our itinerary shows the hotels where we will stay (a total of three: Tel Aviv, Tiberias, and Jerusalem). LUGGAGE SIZE AND AMOUNT We don't have a luggage size and number allowance per person, but we suggest not exceeding over 40-50 lbs (18-22 kg) per piece of luggage as it makes it hard to handle. The lighter, the better. You will be responsible for handling your own luggage on the trip, so don't pack anything heavier than what you can lift. PARK & ENTRANCE PASSES Holy Land Site Ministries will pay all park and entrance fees for all sites. You are responsible for paying any entrance fees you want to see during your free time. WHAT WILL OUR VISITS TO EACH SITE BE LIKE? Our visits will normally last around two hours. We will begin with some orientation of the site. Then we'll do a walking tour to see the site and its points of interest. We'll then find a quiet spot to reflect on the main events from the Bible that happened at the site and close with a faith lesson to learn the key truths God would desire to teach us. Afterward, you will have about 15 minutes to buy souvenirs if desired. TRIP PREPARATION Please utilize the videos and information on our website, which provide help and orientation to understand better the many biblical sites we will be visiting, the history of Israel, and other helpful information. In addition, we will provide helpful information leading up to our trip that will help prepare you to get the most out of your holy land experience. We also ask that you acquaint yourself with our Travel Orientation Material found on our website. You will find it extremely helpful. TIME OF YEAR FOR THIS TRIP We’ve chosen the dates of this trip to visit Israel because the weather is stable, and there are no Jewish Holidays that will interfere with our travels. DAILY ITINERARY Please consider that the schedule might be slightly adjusted depending on circumstances outside our control. MONEY IN ISRAEL Credit cards and Dollars are readily accepted, and Shekels can be drawn from ATMs. INTERNET IN ISRAEL Phone SIM cards can be purchased for around $39.99 if you want Internet service in Israel. You can also activate your phone for international service. If you don't have Internet via your phone service, free Internet service is provided at each hotel where we will be staying, and the tour bus also has free Internet service. DIGITAL MAPS OF DAILY TRIP ITINERARY For each day's tour trip itinerary , a link to a Google Map of the route and sites we'll see is provided . Here's an example: Tour Day 1: G oogle Map Itinerary DAILY SCHEDULE We will meet in the main lobby of each hotel no later than 7:30 am daily to promptly board the tour bus. We will return around 4:00 - 5:00 pm. After returning to our hotel at the end of each day, you will have free time to relax and eat at the hotel or go out to see the local sites, eat out, and experience the culture. PERSONAL TRAVEL IN ISRAEL You can take a taxi, walk, or use the bus or light rail train system. It's helpful to have Internet service (you can activate your phone or get an Israeli SIM card) and use Google or Apple Maps to get around. It will tell you which bus, light rail train, or walking route suits you best. It also works in real-time, so you can see precisely when buses and trains are arriving and departing. AGE LIMIT The minimum age for trip participants is 12 years old unless other arrangements have been made with the tour hosts. ITINERARY Please see our detailed itinerary below. PASSPORT INFO Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Passports must have at least six months left before expiration. ELECTRONIC TRAVEL DOCUMENT FOR ENTRY INTO ISRAEL (ETA-IL) Travelers from visa-exempt countries (meaning they don't have to get a visa before arrival in Israel; they get it upon landing in Israel) must obtain an ETA-IL before their planned travel to Israel. ETA-IL is designed to smoothen border control upon arrival in Israel and ensure Israel's national security. How long is an ETA-IL valid? Obtaining an ETA-IL indicates you can travel to Israel as a tourist and stay up to 90 days. Your ETA-IL authorization is generally valid for multiple trips over up to two years from the date your application is approved, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. What does the ETA-IL application cost? 25 NIS ($6.83 USD) per applicant. How to apply for an ETA-IL? The application is made online through the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority website. Here's the link: ETA-IL (piba.gov.il) When to Apply? Please do so no later than two weeks before the Israel trip departure date, but you can do it sooner if you'd like. Anchor 1 TOUR HOSTS Todd & Letsy Fink More about the Finks TRIP REGISTRATION, DEPOSITS, PAYMENT INFO HOW TO REGISTER & CONFIRM YOUR SPOT 1. Please fill out the online registration form, and we will notify you of your acceptance on the tour trip team. 2. After being notified of your acceptance on the tour team, please pay your non-refundable registration deposit of $500 USD. Your deposit is what confirms your spot on the tour team. REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, AND FINAL PAYMENT LINKS Holy Land Trip Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payme nt ~ $1, 4 50 USD FINAL PAYMENT DEADLINE Your final payment deadline is August 1 , 2025 . For those who desire to attend this trip after August 1 , 2025 , we will handle each person on a space availability case basis. Thanks for your understanding. CANCEL ATIONS & REFUNDS Deposit Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries All deposit payments are non-refundable and non-transferable to other trip dates. Refund of Final Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries 1. If you need to cancel your trip for personal reasons before August 1 , 2025 , Holy Land Site Ministries will only be able to refund one-half of your final payment. 2. If you must cancel your trip for personal reasons after August 1 , 2025 , Holy Land Site Ministries will not be able to refund any of your final payment due to expenses already incurred that cannot recuperated. Transferring Payments to a Different Tour Trip Date No payments to Holy Land Site Ministries can be transferred from one tour trip to a different tour trip date. Refunds from Purchases of Airline Tickets, Lodging, etc. Holy Land Site Ministries cannot refund any of these funds because they were not paid to Holy Land Site Ministries. Refund if Trip is Canceled Due to Events Out of Our Control like Covid, Other Viruses, War, and So Forth 1. 100% of the final payment to Holy Land Site Ministries will be refunded. 2. The deposit payment of $500 is not refundable. 3. Refunds from flights and lodging will be the responsibility of each person as these were booked personally. 4. Unfortunately, Holy Land Site Ministries cannot act as your trip insurance if the trip must be canceled or you choose to cancel for personal reasons. Therefore, we encourage you to get trip insurance to cover funds paid to Holy Land Site Ministries if this is important to you. TRIP PROTECTION INSURANCE If you would like trip protection insurance to protect you, or if the trip is canceled for any reason, many third-party insurance agencies provide travel protection insurance in the case of cancelations due to unforeseen reasons. Travel Protection Agencies (Rated the Highest by Forbes.com) Forbes.com Adviser (compares many companies): https://www.forbes.com/advisor/travel-insurance Allianz Travel Insurance: allianztravelinsurance.com Travel Guard (AIG): travelguard.com/travel-insurance/plans Seven Corners: sevencorners.com WHEN TO BOOK AIRFARE & LODGING Please book your lodging as soon as possible, as lodging fills up quickly in Israel. You can book your flights around 3 to 6 months before trip departure or as desired. HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKING LINKS We show Bookings.com as an option because they offer no upfront charges, and cancelations can be done 72 hours in advance with no fees. However, if you want to book using another booking platform, you are welcome to do so. When you book your lodging, mention in the message section that you are with the HolyLandSite.com Tour Group. They will give you better rooms. Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel , 7 Peretz Berenstein Street, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv Check-in: October 18, Check-out: October 19. One night stay. Hotel Reservation Link: Bookings.com or Kfar Maccabiah for direct booking. Prima Galil Tiberias Hotel, 1 El Hadif Street, Tiberias Check-in: October 19, Check-out: October 23. Four nights stay. Hotel Reservation Link: Bookings.com Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem Check-in: October 23, Check-out: November 1. Nine nights stay. Hotel Reservation Link: Bookings.com Note: For those with the time and resources, arriving a day early will allow you to rest up and better prepare for your experience in Israel. If, for some reason, a hotel is full, just book a hotel of your choice nearby and meet us at the main lobby of the hotel where the rest of the group is staying no later than 7:30 am. Bus departure is scheduled daily at 7:30 am promptly from each hotel. CONTACT INFO: Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmailcom Website : HolyLandSite.com Anchor 2 Anchor 4 DAILY ITINERARY FRI, OCT 17 DEPART FOR THE HOLY LAND Please plan to arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, no later than October 18, by 3:00 pm if possible. This will give you plenty of time to attend our orientation and get-acquainted meeting at 7:00 pm. We'll meet at the main check-in lobby of the Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel and then go to our meeting place. Note: For those with the time and resources, arriving a day early will allow you to rest up and get better prepared for your experience in Israel. Clic k to see the "Ben Gurion Airport Arrival Orientation Video." SAT, OCT 18 TEL AVIV After arriving at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, you will proceed through the airport. Please don’t lose the small tourist visa you were provided. Afterward, you can take a taxi to Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel, 7 Peretz Berenstein Street, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv. Due to customs and obtaining visas, please allow approximately 3 hours from airport arrival to hotel arrival. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Orientation and get acquainted meeting 7:00 pm. Please meet in the main hotel lobby. Free time afterward. Lodging at Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel, 7 Peretz Berenstein Street, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv. One night total. Google Map from Ben Gurion to Kfar Maccabiah Hotel SUN, OCT 19 TEL AVIV – SEA OF GALILEE AREA Refreshed from a good night's sleep, we’ll visit Old Jaffa (Joppa), the traditional home of Simon the Tanner, the port from which Jonah sailed, and the logs arrived for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. We’ll then pass through the fast-growing towns and farms of the Plain of Sharon en route to Caesarea Maritima , where the Holy Spirit came to the Gentiles and the site of major events in the lives of Peter and Paul. We’ll drive through the rolling hills of Galilee to Nazareth , where Jesus grew up, and visit the Church of the Annunciation , where the angel, Gabriel, announced to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah. We'll then drive through Cana , where Christ performed His first public miracle. Then it’s on to Tiberias by the beautiful Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Lodging at Restal Hotel, Yehuda Ha'levi Street, Tiberias. Four nights total. Tour Day 1: Google Map Itinerary MON, OCT 20 SEA OF GALILEE AREA This day alone is worth the trip! We are now literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus. We'll start the day at Gino sa r , where we'll see an ancient boat (Beit Yigal Allon Museum) from the time of Jesus. We'll take a most memorable boat ride on the Sea of Galilee in a replica of an ancient wooden boat used in Jesus’ day. We’ll visit the Mount of Beatitudes , the location of the beautiful Sermon on the Mount, where Christ preached his longest and most famous sermon. From the Mount of Beatitudes, we'll walk in the footsteps of Jesus down the hill to Tabgha by the Sea of Galilee. Then on to Capernaum , where Jesus set up His home ministry base and often preached in the ancient synagogue. We will continue our drive around the Sea of Galilee to Kursi , where Christ cast out a legion of demons out of a demon-possessed man. Time permitting, w e'll end the day at a breathtaking spot overlooking the Sea of Galilee , where we'll see many sites around its shore, one of which is where the Feeding of the 5,000 took place. Free time afterward. Tour Day 2: Google Map Itinerary TUES, OCT 21 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll journey north to Caesarea Philippi, where Peter confessed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God” (Matt. 16:16). We’ll visit Chorazin , one of the cursed towns, which has one of the most preserved synagogues in the Galilee area. Then it's on to visit the most likely place Jesus called many of His disciples and the area where Peter was reconciled with Christ after denying Him three times. We'll wrap up the day with a visit to Magdala , the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out seven demons. At Magdala, we will visit a natural beach where you can dip your feet in the Sea of Galilee or swim if you'd like. Free time afterward. Tour Day 3: Google Map Itinerary WED, OCT 22 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll drive along the Jordan Valley to Beth Shean , a stunning Roman Decapolis city and the place where Saul and his son’s bodies were hanged after defeat in battle. We’ll visit Gideon’s Spring , where Gideon selected his soldiers to battle against the Midianites. We’ll return to the Sea of Galilee and finish the day on top of Mt. Arbel , the believed place where Christ gave the Great Commission, and which provides a breathtaking view of the Sea of Galilee. Free time afterward. Tour Day 4: Google Map Itinerary THURS, OCT 23 JORDAN VALLEY AREA We’ll drive south along the Jordan Valley, following the footsteps that Jesus and His disciples would have walked, arriving at the Baptismal Site of Jesus, where Jesus was baptized by John. We'll provide an option for those who would like to get baptized to do so. Then to Jericho , the oldest known walled city and the first place Joshua and the Israelites conquered upon entering the Promised Land. We’ll then visit Qumran , where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in 1947. Then, we'll ascend and enter Jerusalem as pilgrims have done since ancient times to fulfill the words of the prophet: "I was glad when they said unto me: 'Our feet shall stand within thy Gates, O Jerusalem'" (Psalms 122:1–2). Free time afterward. Lodging at Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem. Nine nights total. Tour Day 5: Google Map Itinerary FRI, OCT 24 DEAD SEA AREA We’ll begin the day by driving to Masada , a massive fortress rock column that overlooks the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on Earth). We'll ascend Masada by cable car to visit the remnants of Herod's Palace, where in 73 AD, the Zealots made their last stand against the might of Rome. We’ll visit ancient Gomorrah , one of the cities God destroyed by fire and brimstone due to their wickedness. Then, what would a visit to Israel be without taking a dip, or rather a float, in the Dead Sea ? Free time afterward. Tour Day 6: Google Map Itinerary SAT, OCT 25 BETHLEHEM – JUDAH AREA We'll begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Herodian Fortress . While there, we'll view Bethlehem in the distance, the Shepherds' Fields, the Fields of Boaz and Ruth, and see where David kept his sheep as a young man . Then, we'll visit Bethlehem, Manger Square, and the Church of the Nativity, where Jesus was born. We’ll continue our travels to the Valley of Elah , where David slew Goliath. Then on to Beth Shemesh , where key events in the life of Samson took place and where the Ark of the Covenant miraculously was returned to the Israelites by the Philistines. Free time afterward. Tour Day 7: Google Map Itinerary SUN, OCT 26 SAMARIA AREA Today, we’ll travel north to the ancient Samaria region of the Bible. We visit Shechem , where Abraham first entered the Promised Land and erected an altar. We’ll see and drink from Jacob’s Well , where Jesus talked with the Samaritan woman. We’ll see where Joseph’s bones were buried at the Tomb of Joseph . We’ll see ancient Shiloh , where the Tabernacle resided for 369 years, and Hannah prayed for a son (Samuel). Then it’s on to ancient Bethel , where Jacob saw a ladder to heaven, where the tabernacle resided, and where Jeroboam erected a Golden Calf. We'll drive by the site of ancient Ai , the second city Joshua and the Israelites destroyed. Free time afterward. Tour Day 8: Google Map Itinerary MON, OCT 27 JERUSALEM We’ll start the day with a magnificent view of the Old City from the top of the Mt. of Olives and orient ourselves to the layout and places of Jerusalem . We’ll then visit the Chapel of Ascension , where Christ ascended back to heaven and where His feet will touch down at His glorious second coming. We'll visit Pater Noster Church , where Christ taught His disciples how to pray. We'll see the Tombs of the Prophets , where Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are believed to be buried. We’ll take the Palm Sunday Walk to the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations . Along the way, we’ll visit Dominus Flevit , where Christ wept over Jerusalem. We’ll see Mary’s Tomb and underground caves that were part of Gethsemane . Free time afterward. Tour Day 9: Google Map Itinerary TUES, OCT 28 JERUSALEM Today, we’ ll visit and walk on the Temple Mount , the location of Solomon’s Temple and the holiest and most battled-over piece of land in the world. We'll then see the Western Wall , the Jew’s most holy site in Israel. We’ll visit the Southern Stairs Area , the main entrance to the Temple Mount, a place Christ and His disciples would have often been, and the likely place where those who received Christ at Pentecost were baptized. We’ll then walk through part of the Cardo , an original Roman street, and see the amazing remains of the massive Broad Wall built by King Hezekiah. We'll wind up the day by walking the Rooftop's Walk over Old City Jerusalem. Free time afterward. Tour Day 10 : Google Map Itinerary WED, OCT 29 JERUSALEM Today, we will visit the Upper Room, the location of the Last Supper, and where an early church/synagogue was built by early Christians shortly after the time of Christ. Next, we'll see the House of Caiaphas , where Christ was tried before Caiaphas, Peter denied Christ three times, and where Christ was beaten and spent the night in a dungeon . While at the House of Caiaphas, we'll see a model of Jerusalem from around 135 AD . Then, we'll have the privilege of visiting the City of David , where everything began in Jerusalem. While in the City of David, we'll see David's Palace , ancient ruins, the remains of Nehemiah's Wall, and King David's Tomb. For those who would like, you can walk through Hezekiah's Water Tunnel , which diverts the water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam. For the others, you can walk the Canaanite Dry Tunnel . We'll then all meet and see the Pool of Siloam , where Christ healed a blind man. We’ll then walk part of the Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat), where God’s winepress of wrath will be poured out on the gathered nations at Christ's second coming and from where the blood (the height of a horse’s bridle) will flow to the Dead Sea and beyond. Free time afterward. Tour Day 11: Google Map Itinerary THURS, OCT 30 NEGEV AREA Today, we’ll travel to Hebron , where Abraham had many encounters with God and from where King David reigned over Judah for 7 1/2 years. We'll begin by seeing the Cave of Machpelah , where the patriarchs and their wives are buried. Close to Machpelah are the ruins of ancient Tel Hebron . Just a short distance from the Cave of Machpelah is the Oaks of Mamre, where God made a covenant with Abraham, one of the most important covenants in the Bible. We'll then return to Jerusalem and visit the Israel Museum , where an amazing model of Jerusalem from 66 AD is located. We'll also see the Shrine of the Book and the archaeological wing of the museum. Farewell Dinner at 6:30 pm. Free time afterward. Tour Day 12: Google Map Itinerary FRI, OCT 31 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day by walking along the Eastern Wall and seeing the famous Eastern Gate , where we'll see ancient stones dating back to Solomon's time and evidence of the original Temple Mount and its expansions over the years. Then it's on to see the Pools of Bethesda , where Jesus healed a sick man after waiting 38 long years. We’ll walk the traditional path of the Via Dolorosa and see the 14 Stations of the Cross leading to Golgotha , where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is today. We'll then visit and explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see why it's the best candidate for Golgotha. From there, we'll walk the biblical Via Dolorosa (painful path to the Cross) to Pilate’s Palace and Gabbatha (stone pavement and judgment place where Christ was condemned to crucifixion). Free time afterward. Tour Day 13: Google Map Itinerary SAT, NOV 1 ISRAEL - HOME Unless you plan on continuing your stay in Israel, you’ll transfer to the airport and arrive home with wonderful memories of a visit to the Land of the Bible! The hotel in Jerusalem (Prima Park) provides several options for direct transportation to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv right from the hotel. All of them can be prearranged, so you have no waiting time whatsoever. We recommend arriving at Ben Gurion Airport at least 3 hours in advance. This means you should leave Jerusalem no later than 4 hours before your flight departure. Following are your transportation options: 1. Taxi: C osts around $100 USD for up to 4 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). 2. Shuttle Taxi: Costs around $120 USD for up to 6 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). Please arrange transportation with the hotel front desk a day in advance. All transportation options take about an hour to reach the airport and run every day of the week, even on Shabbat (Saturday), the Sabbath. Google Map from Prima Park Hotel to Ben Gurion Airport C li ck t o see the "Ben Gurion Airport Departure Orientation Video." SUN, NOV 2 ARRIVE HOME Return home filled with an overflowing heart, knowing that you walked in the footsteps of Christ and experienced the actual places where many of the events in the Bible took place. Anchor 3

See all the sites and discoveries of Magdala by the Sea of Galilee. Learn about Mary Magdalene, one of Christ's most devoted followers. See how her life was drastically changed by Christ. Synagogue, stone with grooves (used for reading the scrolls in the synagogue), rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem, mosaics in the synagogue, scroll storage room, marketplace, fish market area, residential area, Mikvahs, harbor, Byzantine Monastery, Duc In Altum (Latin for "Put out into the deep") Magdala Photo Gallery Places of Interest Magdala Introduction Welcome to the town of Magdala. Many significant events from the Bible happened here. These are the highlights. 1. It was the largest city around the Sea of Galilee, so Jesus would have preached here regularly. 2. It has one of the most well-preserved synagogues in Israel. Magdala was the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out seven demons. 3. Mary became a devoted follower of Jesus and was the first one Christ appeared to after His resurrection. 4. Mary was likely a wealthy widow as she followed Christ everywhere and financially supported the ministry of Jesus. 5. A strong case could be made that Mary was one of Christ’s most devoted and loyal followers. 6. It's a great place to put your feet in the Sea of Galilee. Location 1. Magdala, also known as Migdal and Magadan, is located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. 2. It was located on the Via Maris (an International Highway linking Africa with Asia and Europe). 3. A massive tower foundation that may account for the city's name was discovered here . Both Magdala in Aramaic and Migdal in Hebrew means tower. Historical Background 1. Excavations first revealed this buried seaport city in the 1960s. Later, more of Magdala was recently discovered in 2009. It’s believed a flash flood covered it sometime in the latter part of the 1st Century, as no coins or artifacts were found dating later than 67 AD. 2. It was a fishing village with one of the largest fish markets in northern Galilee. 3. It has one of Israel's oldest, most well-preserved synagogues. 4. This synagogue was in use during Jesus's time, and He certainly would have preached here regularly. Matthew 4:23: And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. 5. On one occasion, Jesus came to this area after feeding 4,000 people on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee. Matthew 15:38–39: Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. 39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan (Magdala). 6. Magdala had an estimated population of around 8,000-10,000 people during Christ's time. 7. It had a boat harbor with a fleet of around 230 boats. Today, it is still used as a boat launch, and many boats are parked just north of this site. 8. It has a rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem with detailed carvings showing different aspects of the temple. 9. Magdala was the hometown of the famous Jewish historian Josephus. 10. It was the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out 7 demons. 11. It was the largest Jewish city around the Sea of Galilee. 12. The area around Magdala is called "Migdal," the Hebrew name for Magdala. 13. Magdala became a center of rebellion against Rome and a fortified base for rebels during the first Jewish revolt that began in AD 66. 14. In AD 67-68, three Roman legions commanded by Vespasian reached Magdala and surrounded the city. After its defeat, many of the rebels tried to escape by boat acros s Galilee with disastrous results. The Romans engaged them in a sea battle and killed so many that the water in the Sea of Galilee turned red with their blood. Another 1,200 were executed in nearby Tiberias. Of the remaining Magdala citizens, 6,000 were sent to build a canal in Greece, and 30,000 were sold as slaves. Places of Interest 1. Synagogue 2. Beth Midrash (teaching area in the synagogue) 3. Stone with grooves (used for reading the scrolls in the synagogue) 4. A rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem in the synagogue. A copy of it is now placed outside the synagogue in a glass case. Many symbols can be found carved into it. Westside (side facing seating area): Menorah Two pillars on each side represent the pillars at the entrance to the Holy of Holies. Jars likely represent storage for oil for the Menorah. Top of stone: Two trees represent the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden of Eden. Rosette represents the curtain to the Holy of Holies. Northside & Southside: Arches represent the entrance and exit to the temple in Jerusalem. Herodian Lamp, unique to Jerusalem. Eastside: Wheels with an explosion under them represent the Chariot of Fire, in which Elijah was taken to heaven. The Torah was read from this stone on Saturdays (Sabbath). 5. Well-preserved mosaics in the synagogue. 6. Scroll storage room in the synagogue. 7. Marketplace 8. Fishmarket area Aqueduct 9. Residential area The width of the streets in biblical times was measured by the width of two loaded donkeys passing by one another. 10. Mikvahs 11. Harbor Area Dry dock Fishing vats 12. Byzantine Monastery 13. Duc In Altum (Latin for "Put out into the deep") is a spiritual center in Magdala where all can worship. It has a unique Galilean boat as an altar and a beautiful view of the Sea of Galilee behind it. The boat is made out of cedar from Lebonon, in honor of the temple Solomon built with cedar from Lebonon as well. This center was built in honor of Mary Magdalene. One of its purposes is to honor and support women today. Magdala (Mary Magdalene) in the Bible 1. Jesus preached in Magdala regularly. Matthew 4:23: And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. Matthew 15:38–39: Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. 39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan [Magdala]. 2. Jesus cast out 7 demons from Mary Magdalene. Luke 8:1–3: Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means. 3. Mary was likely a wealthy widow as she followed Christ everywhere and supported the ministry of Jesus financially. 4. A strong case could be made that Mary was one of Christ’s most devoted and loyal followers. She followed Jesus everywhere and supported Him financially. She was present at the mock trial of Jesus, she heard Pontius Pilate pronounce the death sentence upon Jesus, she saw Jesus beaten and humiliated by the crowd, she was one of the women who stood near Jesus during the crucifixion to try to comfort Him, and she was the first woman Christ appeared to after rising from the dead. 5. Mary looked from a distance at Christ’s crucifixion and then moved in closer during His last suffering hours on the cross. Mark 15:40: There were also women looking on from a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. John 19:25: But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 6. Mary Magdalene helped buy expensive spices to anoint the body of Jesus after His crucifixion. Mark 16:1: When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. 7. Mary was the earliest witness to Jesus's resurrection and was sent by Jesus to tell the others. Mark 16:9: When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. John 20:11-18: But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept, she stooped to look into the tomb. 12 And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. 13 They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” 14 Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). 17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her. 8. Even at the very end, Mary never lost her first love for Jesus. Revelation 2:4: But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 9. Mary also undoubtedly served Christ alongside the apostles for the rest of her life. Faith Lesson from Magdala and Mary Magdalene 1. Christ cast out 7 demons from Mary. This changed her life forever and filled her with deep gratitude to Jesus. Are we grateful for what God has done for us as well? 2. Mary loved Christ profoundly and was one of His most devoted followers. She is the model of what it means to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Are we devoted to Christ as Mary was? 3. Mary supported Jesus’ ministry financially. Do we support Jesus’ ministries as well? 4. Mary never lost her first love for Christ. Have we lost our first love?

Christ's path to the Cross, His suffering, condemnation by the Jews, trial by Pilate, and crucifixion. Gethsemane, House of Caiaphus, Pilate's Judgment Place, Golgotha, Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Gethsemane to Golgotha: Path to the Cross Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gethsemane to Golgotha: Christ's Path to the Cross Location 1. Gethsemane is located at the base of the Mount of Olives and just east of the Temple Mount. 2. Golgotha has two general options for its location. The traditional site is at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Another option is at the Garden Tomb. There is a rock faced cliff that looks like the face of a skull. Over the years it has deteriorated but still resembles a face. 3. Because we worship a person and not a place, the location isn’t as important as what happened. Both places are close to each other, so we know they’re both in the vicinity. Historical Background 1. The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ were real events that happened in history. 2. They were prophesied in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament. 3. There were hundreds, if not thousands, of eyewitnesses to Christ’s resurrection (1 Cor. 15:6). 4. Within decades of Christ’s resurrection, Roman and Jewish historians wrote about Jesus and the events surrounding Him. 5. There is more evidence regarding Christ’s existence than Julius Caesar. 6. No other person has changed history as Christ did. 7. Christ’s disciples were willing to die for their faith in Him. 8. Throughout history, and today, billions of people confess Christ as their Savior, and that He lives within them and has changed their lives. Places of Interest 1. Gethsemane 2. House of Caiaphas 3. Antonia Fortress 4. Herod’s Palace – Pilate's Judgment Hall 5. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 6. Garden Tomb 7. Via Dolorosa Gethsemane to Golgotha in the Bible 1. Jesus began the journey praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. Matthew 26:36–38: Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here, while I go over there and pray." 37 And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me." 2. Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane very late at night. Matthew 26:47: While he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 3. Jesus was brought before Annas, the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the High Priest. John 18:12–13: So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. 13 First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. 4. Christ was brought before Caiaphas, the High Priest. Matthew 26:57: Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered. 5. While at the house of Caiaphas, Peter denied Christ 3 times. Luke 22:61–62: And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times." 62 And he went out and wept bitterly. 6. The religious leaders condemned and beat Jesus at the house of Caiaphas. Matthew 26:65–68: Then the high priest tore his robes and said, "He has uttered blasphemy. What further witnesses do we need? You have now heard his blasphemy. 66 What is your judgment?" They answered, "He deserves death." 67 Then they spit in his face and struck him. And some slapped him, 68 saying, "Prophesy to us, you Christ! Who is it that struck you?" 7. Christ most likely spent the rest of the night in a dungeon at the house of Caiaphas, the High Priest. 8. Early the next morning Christ was brought before Pilate to be judged. John 18:28: Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters. It was early morning. They themselves did not enter the governor's headquarters, so that they would not be defiled, but could eat the Passover. 9. Judas, the disciple who betrayed Christ, hanged himself. Matthew 27:3–5: Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, 4 saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself." 5 And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself. 10. Jesus appeared before King Herod. Luke 23:5–7: But they were urgent, saying, "He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee even to this place." 6 When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. 7 And when he learned that he belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him over to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. Luke 23:11: And Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him. Then, arraying him in splendid clothing, he sent him back to Pilate. 11. Jesus appeared again before Pilate, Pilates’s wife warned him about condemning Jesus, Barabbas released. Matthew 27:19–23: While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him a message, saying, “Have nothing to do with that righteous Man; for last night I suffered greatly in a dream because of Him.” 20 But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to put Jesus to death. 21 But the governor said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barabbas.” 22 Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said, “Crucify Him!” 23 And he said, “Why, what evil has He done?” But they kept shouting all the more, saying, “Crucify Him!” 12. Pilate had Jesus beaten in an attempt to appease the Jews. John 19:1–6: Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged him. 2 And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head and arrayed him in a purple robe. 3 They came up to him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and struck him with their hands. 4 Pilate went out again and said to them, “See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.” 5 So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!” 6 When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no guilt in him.” 13. Pilate condemned Jesus to death by crucifixion. Matthew 27:24–26: So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood; see to it yourselves." 25 And all the people answered, "His blood be on us and on our children!" 26 Then he released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified. 14. Jesus was led out to be crucified at Golgotha. John 19:16–17: So he delivered him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus, 17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. 15. Because Christ’s body was so physically damaged, Simon of Cyrene was forced to carry Christ’s cross the rest of the way. Matthew 27:32–33: As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross. 33 And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull).” 16. Jesus was crucified at 9:00 Friday morning on Passover day. Mark 15:25: And it was the third hour (9:00 am) when they crucified him. 17. Christ on the Cross. Matthew 27:34–37: They offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall, but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. 35 And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. 36 Then they sat down and kept watch over him there. 37 And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” 18. Jesus was mocked by those who passed by, the chief priest, scribes, and elders. Matthew 27:38–43: Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. 39 And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads 40 and saying, "You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross." 41 So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, 42 "He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, 'I am the Son of God.'" 19. One of the robbers who was crucified with Christ embraced Him as his Savior. Luke 23:39–43: One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” 20. Jesus dies on the Cross. Luke 23:46–49: Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last. 47 Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, “Certainly this man was innocent!” 48 And all the crowds that had assembled for this spectacle, when they saw what had taken place, returned home beating their breasts. 49 And all his acquaintances and the women who had followed him from Galilee stood at a distance watching these things. 21. From noon until 3:00 pm, darkness fell on the earth. Matthew 27:45–50: Now from the sixth hour [12:00 pm] there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour [3:00 pm]. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" that is, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" 47 And some of the bystanders, hearing it, said, "This man is calling Elijah." 48 And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine, and put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink. 49 But the others said, "Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him." 50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. 22. The temple curtain was torn in two, and many people rose from the dead and appeared to others. Matthew 27:51–53: And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. 52 The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, 53 and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. 23. Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb. John 19:38–42: After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body. 39 Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. 40 So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. 41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there. 24. The tomb of Jesus was secured by the Romans. Matthew 27:65–66: Pilate said to them, "You have a guard of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can." 66 So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard. 25. Three days later Christ rose from the dead and proved victorious over sin and death. 1 Corinthians 15:3–8: For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me [Apostle Paul]. Faith Lesson from Gethsemane to Golgotha 1. Christ was beaten on at least 3 occasions, and His body was so damaged that He couldn't even carry His cross. 2. Christ suffered both physically and spiritually for us. 3. What He suffered spiritually was far more than His physical suffering. 4. He suffered the penalty of eternity in hell for each person who trusts in Him as their Savior. Isaiah 53:5: But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed. 5. Jesus died on the Cross at the exact time the sacrificial lamb of the Passover was to be sacrificed. This was no accident but was sovereignly arranged by God to show that Christ was the Passover Lamb once and for all. 6. Words fail to express what Christ went through for us so He could restore us to Himself and have an eternal relationship with us. 7. Do we comprehend and appreciate this reality?. 8. Because of His great sacrifice, we can have our sins forgiven and receive the gift of eternal life. Have you received Christ as your Lord and Savior?

The story of Noah’s Ark is one of the most intriguing stories known to mankind. It can be found in around 200 different accounts around the world on almost every continent.Overwhelming evidence can be seen today for what is believed to be the site of Noah's Ark. Of all the stories in the Bible, Noah’s Ark and the flood are the most controversial. Is it all true and did it really happen? How did it happen? And if it is true, is there evidence for the existence of Noah’s Ark? Noah's Ark Location Noah's Ark This name means Noah's Ark Noah's Ark Scan 3 Noah's Ark 1/42 Noah's Ark & the Great Flood The story of Noah’s Ark is one of the most intriguing stories known to mankind. It can be found in around 200 different accounts around the world and on almost every continent. However, many people today believe Noah’s Ark and the Flood are just myths or some altered version of ancient beliefs. Of all the stories in the Bible, Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood is one of the most controversial. Is it all true? Did it really happen? How did it happen? And if it’s true, is there evidence of the Flood and the existence of Noah’s Ark today? I believe you will be fascinated and touched by the amount of evidence that exists for the truthfulness of Noah’s Ark and the Bible’s account of all that took place surrounding this catastrophic event. The Great Flood account is mentioned in writings or oral traditions found all around the world. The Great Flood Account is referred to in around 200 accounts. These flood legends are common across a wide range of cultures, extending back into Bronze Age and Neolithic prehistory. These accounts depict a flood, sometimes global in scale, usually sent by a deity or deities to destroy civilization as an act of divine retribution. They are found on virtually every continent and share very similar themes. This is so because Noah’s descendants stayed together until God confused their languages at Babel and they scattered as found in Genesis 11. As the various people groups spread around the globe, the story of the Flood was shared, until it became distorted and embedded in their respective histories. The oldest known recording of a global flood is the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh from the eighteenth-century BC. The Biblical Account of Noah and the Great Flood is the Most Complete and Trustworthy Account The most significant, complete, and trustworthy account is found in the Bible in Genesis chapters 6–8. Noah and the Great Flood are mentioned 47 times in the Bible. With references in 9 different books of the Bible such as Genesis, 1 Chronicles, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Matthew, Luke, Hebrews, and 1 Peter & 2 Peter. This means Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jesus, the Apostle Peter, and other biblical writers all attest to the truthfulness of this catastrophic event as literal and real. What is very notable is the fact that Jesus referenced Noah and the Flood 5 times in the Gospel accounts. This is weighty evidence to the reality of Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood because Jesus referred to it as being a literal event, not some myth or fairy tale. Places of Interest 1. Noah’s Ark National Park 2. Noah’s Ark Location 3. Noah’s Ark Visitor Center 4. Drogue – Anchor Stones 5. Noah’s Home 6. Noah’s Altar & Corrals 7. Mountains of Ararat 8. Mount Ararat 9. Wall of Heaven Site 10. Crow Won’t Land Site 11. Village of the Eight History of the Durupinar Site of Noah’s Ark We’ll now look at a brief history of this site and then look at the overwhelming evidence supporting this place as the best candidate for the location of Noah’s Ark. 1. In recent years it has been named after Turkish Army Captain Ilhan Durupinar, who shot an aerial photo of the site while on a mapping mission for NATO in October 1959. Durupinar informed the Turkish government of his discovery, and a group from the Archeological Research Foundation, which included George Vandeman, Ilhan Durupinar, and Arthur Brandenberger, professor of photogrammetry, surveyed the site in September 1960. After two days of digging and dynamiting inside the “boat-shaped” formation, the expedition members found only soil and rocks. Their official news release concluded that “there were no visible archaeological remains” and that this formation “was a freak of nature and not man-made.” 2. However, long before Durupinar photographed this site, there is evidence going back thousands of years of people venerating this area. We see evidence of carvings, writings, relics, stele, ostraca, drogue stones, name locations, the size and shape of the Ark in the landscape, and so forth. This evidence begins with Noah and continues to the early Christians, the Crusaders, and later. It all attests that this site seems to be the genuine place of Noah’s Ark. 3. After Durupinar’s time, the site was then ignored until 1977, when interest in it was renewed again and promoted by biblical researcher and explorer Ron Wyatt. Throughout the 1980s, Wyatt repeatedly tried to interest other people in the site, including ark hunter and former astronaut James Irwin and creationist John D. Morris. 4. In 1985, Wyatt was joined by David Fasold, and geophysicist John Baumgardner. This expedition is recounted in Fasold’s book, “The Ark of Noah.” As soon as Fasold saw the site, he exclaimed that it was a shipwreck. Fasold brought along state-of-the-art ground-penetrating radar equipment and a “frequency generator.” He put it on the wavelength setting for iron at the site and searched the formation for internal iron. Fasold and the team state that the ground penetration radar revealed a regular internal structure beneath the surface. Fasold believed the team found the fossilized remains of the upper deck and that the original reed substructure had disappeared. In the nearby village of Kazan, formerly called Arzap, they examined so-called drogue and anchor stones that they believed were once attached to the ark. Fasold kept repeating that no matter what the experts said, there was too much evidence at the Durupinar site for it to be dismissed. He remained convinced it was the fossilized remains of Noah’s Ark. 5. Due to the amount of evidence, in 1987, the Turkish government declared the site to be Noah’s Ark, and a Visitor Center was constructed. It was preserved and called “Noah’s Ark National Park.” 6. From 1987 to 1997, Ron Wyatt and others like Allen Roberts, Andrew Snelling, and David Fasold continued to research the site. It should be noted that Ron Wyatt was the most influential person who worked the hardest and was the most involved in the research and promotion of this site. In 1998 Fasold died, and in 1999, Wyatt died as well. 7. In 1997, Andrew Jones visited this site and would later become the main researcher and promoter of this site. 8. In late 2014, the Turkish government granted permission to allow the site of the boat-shaped object to be scanned using the latest deep penetration resistivity ground imaging technique known as Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT). The scans were carried out by John Larson. This was the first time equipment able to reach 125 ft. or 38 m. deep with sufficient resolution was used on the site to acquire 3D images of the structure that remains beneath the ground. Resistivity imaging is a technique that was developed during the 1920s, for deep oil and mineral exploration. More recently, new equipment has become available with vastly improved resolution capabilities, to the extent where now it has become an effective tool in the field of archaeology. Using this technology, John Larson did major work on the site in 2014 to produce scans that appear to provide more evidence that this site is a man-made object that fits the biblical measurements and descriptions of Noah’s Ark. 9. In 2015, Andrew Armstrong became the key biblical researcher and liaison between the Turkish government and foreign interests. In fact, Andrew is the one who has generously provided us with much of the media of the site to produce this video. Andrew is an American but lives in Turkey and resides about 11 miles or 17 km. from the Durupinar Site. 10. In 2017, the Noah’s Ark Visitor Center was renovated to accommodate tourists better. Another renovation of the Visitor Center is planned for the coming years as well. 11. In 2019, the Science Channel did a documentary on the site called: “Forbidden History.” 12. In 2019, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys were conducted at the site by an Oregon-based business called Topa 3D. Their surveys showed further evidence supporting this site as Noah’s Ark. 13. In 2021, Ryan Mauro, president of the Doubting Thomas Research Foundation, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to investigating the historicity of biblical accounts, became involved in the site as well. 14. Currently, the Turkish government is working on its own scans. They are working in conjunction with Andrew Armstrong. 15. Plans are underway to do excavations of the boat-shaped object in the coming years. Evidence Supporting this Site as Noah’s Ark Now let’s look at the evidence supporting the Durupinar Site as the best candidate for the location of Noah’s Ark. 1. It’s in the mountains of Ararat as the Bible states. Genesis 8:4 says: Then in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, the ark rested upon the mountains of Ararat. Notice that the Ark came to rest in the mountains of Ararat. It doesn’t say it came to rest on the Mountain of Ararat, as some claim. This means it came to rest in the region of Ararat. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica: The name Ararat, as it appears in the Bible, is the Hebrew equivalent of Urardhu, or Urartu, the Assyro-Babylonian name of a kingdom that flourished between the Aras and the Upper Tigris rivers from the 9th to the 7th century BC. The Bible also confirms that Ararat was a kingdom at one time: Jeremiah 51:27: “Set up a standard on the earth; blow the trumpet among the nations; prepare the nations for war against her; summon against her the kingdoms, Ararat, Minni, and Ashkenaz; appoint a marshal against her; bring up horses like bristling locusts. 2. Evidence from the boat-shaped object. It fits the general Ark dimensions of 300 cubits long by 50 cubits wide by 30 cubits high. Its length is exactly 300 royal cubits, which is 515 feet long or 157 m. Its width is larger than 50 royal cubits, which is 86 ft. or 26.21 m. The ruins today measure 138 ft. or 42 m. wide. This extra width has been explained by understanding that the sides of the Ark fell outward as it decayed or that the 50 cubits were an average width of the Ark, not its width at its widest point. Three distinct layers or decks have been discovered from different geophysical scans, ground penetrating radars, and electrical resistivity images taken over the years. These scans reveal these layers only within the ship-shaped object and not outside of it. An earthquake in 1978 lowered the sides outside of the Ark considerably. Images taken before and afterward clearly reveal a change to the sides of the proposed Ark shape. Many believe the sides now reveal several vertical rib-timbers used in the Ark’s construction. Ron Wyatt dug a 6-inch round shaft tunnel into the side of the Ark-shaped formation and claimed to have found petrified animal dung, deer antlers, cat hair, human hair, and other fibers. Metal detector tests taken numerous times over the years all reveal a very distinct organized pattern of metal beneath the surface, which is consistent with the shape of a large ship. Four intact metal rods have been discovered by the Turkish government, each measuring about 4 ft. or 1.2 m. in length. In June of 1991, an interesting object was discovered, which seems to be a large rivet with a washer around it. It was believed to fasten the large timbers of the Ark together. An analysis of the rivet object showed it was made of various metals such as titanium, aluminum, iron, and other metals. Interestingly, just centimeters away from the rivet object, there were no traces of iron in the soil. The Encyclopedia Britannica tells us that because of its chemical activity, aluminum never occurs in the metallic form in nature. It should be noted that the Bible affirms the knowledge and use of iron in Genesis 4:22. It says: As for Zillah, she also gave birth to Tubal-cain, the forger of all implements of bronze and iron. Therefore, Noah certainly had access to iron for building the Ark. During a radar scan done by Ron Wyatt in the presence of the local Turkish governor, something unique seemed to appear. The Turkish governor ordered a soldier to dig up the ground, and a petrified piece of wood was uncovered. It was later tested and revealed it was indeed organic in nature and appeared to be four layers of wood laminated together. This is believed by some to be part of a deck timber. Even more surprising were laboratory analyses which not only revealed that the petrified wood contained carbon proving it was once wood, but there were iron nails embedded in the wood! The Turkish government also claims they have found additional petrified wood at the site. As mentioned, John Larson carried out Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) in 2014, which provides 3D images that are quite convincing that under the surface of the boat-shaped object are what appear to be different decks and structures of a ship. Researcher Andrew Jones and lead scientist Dr. Fethi Ahmet Yüksel of the Department of Geophysical Engineering, along with Applied Geophysics Department of Istanbul University, believe that the results of the scans indicate a man-made artifact beneath the surface that could well be the Ark, and are eager to continue studying the location. The team believes that the new GPR data shows parallel lines and angular structures 8 to 20 feet down and that these parallel lines and right angles below the surface are something you would not expect to see in a natural, geologic formation. Using 3D scans of GPR and ERT technology, the researchers claim that they uncovered a man-made boat structure beneath the ground. The formation identified in the scans, according to the team, matches the dimensions of the Genesis description of Noah’s Ark. Plans are underway to carry out Orthophoto photography, LiDAR imaging, and related mapping studies using aerial drones (UAV) in the region designated as Noah’s Ark. Core drilling plans are also underway for the boat-shaped object as well. 3. Drogue and Anchor Stones These drogue and anchor stones were used as ship stabilizers to better withstand storms and cause drag, so ships weren’t driven and tossed on the oceans. Found in this area are around 30 of these drogue and anchor stones. They are found scattered along a path running west to east. It appears as the waters were receding, the drogue stones began hitting the land under the water, so they were cut loose. The remaining stones are generally in the area where the Ark eventually came to rest. Many of these stones have holes carved in them for connecting ropes from the Ark to the stones. Some of the holes have broken over the years in some of the stones. These drogue stones were continually used in ancient times after the Flood and can be found in places like Israel and the Nile River in Egypt. Many of these stones in the vicinity of the Durupinar site have holes in them that ropes were tied to in order to stabilize the Ark. These drogue stones are over 200 miles from the closest ocean and about 5,300 ft. or 1,615 m. above sea level. They have no business being here other than that a huge ship like the Ark dropped them here. The numerous stones discovered near the Durupinar Site are the largest ever discovered in the world. This would make sense as the Ark was massive in size and would need extra-large stones to stabilize it. Many of these stones have crosses carved on them from early Christians visiting this site, and others have crosses that are from the Crusader Period from around 1200 AD. Some of the stones have eight crosses on them, representing Noah and his family that were saved from the Flood. Several of the stones have been used as grave markers as well. One of these stones has an ancient carving that appears to be the Tower of Babel. Another stone has unknown ancient writings on it that have yet to be interpreted and translated. All these carvings reveal that this site was venerated long ago and visited by religious people for thousands of years. Another large stone is believed to have been used as a sounding stone for measuring the depth of the water under the Ark. 4. The names of the surrounding places affirm this site as Noah’s Ark location. Village of the Eight – This village was named after Noah and his family that God saved from the Flood. It used to be called Kazan and today is called Goller. Kargaconmaz – Means: The crow or bird won’t land. This refers to Noah letting birds out of the Ark to see if there was dry land. Ziyaret Dagi – Means: To make a voluntary pilgrimage. This likely refers to the pilgrimage of Noah and his family aboard the Ark. Uzengili Town – This was formerly called Mahser, which means: To be drawn out of the water or judgment day. The name Moses has the same root. In Genesis 10:30, it says regarding the descendants of Noah: Now their settlement extended from Mesha going toward Sephar, the hill country of the east. Mesha shares the same root word as Mahser. Mahser Location – This has the same meaning as the town of Uzengili but is the location of the area. Nasar – Means: To make a sacrifice. This likely refers to the sacrifices Noah made to God in worship after he and his family were saved from the Flood. Yigityatagi – Means: Hero’s anchorage. This refers to the place where the drogue and anchor stones came to rest in this area of the mountains of Ararat. Arz-zapt (Arzap) – Means: To capture the earth. In the Semitic version of Arz-zapt, which is Eretz-tsab, means: To cling to the earth. These names are linked to the place where the Ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. The name for this town today is Sagliksuyu and is where some drogue stones, the ruins of Noah’s house, and Noah’s altar are located. Nuhun Gemisi – This name means Noah’s Ark in Turkish. It is referred to as the location of Noah’s Ark today, and road signs placed by the government use it to mark the route to Noah’s Ark National Park. 5. Due to the history and evidence at the Durupinar Site, the Turkish government designated this place as Noah’s Ark National Park. This gives more weight to this site as the location of the Ark. 6. There are many road signs today and from the past that mark this site as genuine. 7. Interestingly, what is believed to be the remains of Noah’s home, the grave of Noah’s wife, gravestone markers, a stream by Noah’s home that would have provided water for planting crops, vineyards, and animal husbandry, and a large rock that many believe was the altar Noah used for sacrificing animals to God has been discovered in the town of Arzap. The remains of Noah’s home are believed to be located here in this area. It was once somewhat erected but has been torn down over the years by treasure hunters. A sarcophagus was discovered by Ron Wyatt, which is a stone coffin or a container to hold a coffin that had skeletal remains of a person who was about 15 ft. or 4.5 m. tall. It’s believed before the Flood that people and animals were much bigger as they lived longer. The remains are believed to be those of Noah’s wife. The sarcophagus has been hauled off by treasure hunters and sold on the black market. However, its depression in the ground is still visible today. It’s also believed the jewelry she was wearing was robbed and sold on the black market for millions of dollars. Some of the skeletal remains have survived and reveal the size of the person who was in the grave. Two tombstones were found in front of what’s believed to be Noah’s home. On one of the tombstones found by Ron Wyatt, it had carvings of 8 people, a rainbow, and a dove on it. This tombstone is believed to be that of Noah’s wife, as the second-largest person is looking downward with their eyes closed. Remains of ancient corrals have been discovered where it’s possible Noah kept his animals are nearby, along with a stream, pastures, and so forth that could have been used by Noah and his family. A large rock nearby is believed to be an altar Noah could have used for animal sacrifice after the Flood. 8. There have been found in the area around the site many sea life fossils and an abundance of sea coral that give evidence that this area was once underwater for a significant period of time. This would match the Genesis account of the Great Flood as found in the Bible. 9. Broken remains of an ancient stele, which is a stone or wooden slab erected in the ancient world as a monument, were claimed to have been found on top of a ridge near the Iranian border by Ron Wyatt. The broken pieces were quite large, and most were exposed, which allowed Ron to photograph them for later piecing together. This stele contained numerous inscriptions of what looked like 3 different forms of writing. One segment was particularly legible. This was a scene depicting the unique ridge just above the site, a mountain peak in the background, a ship with 8 faces in it, and 2 ravens (one flying above the ship and one above the mountain.) The rest of the inscription featured several animals. But the importance of the stele was that the shape of the boat was almost identical to the 1950s aerial photo of the boat-shaped object. The 8 faces within the boat needed little explanation according to Wyatt. But most importantly, this stele was just beyond the site where Ron had found the 120 x 40-foot section he believed to be a portion of the bottom of the ship. He would study the inscription more later, but at that time, it appeared to him that it was marking the location of the original landfall of the ark. 10. An ostracon was found by Dr. Bill Shea around 100 ft. or 30.48 m. from the boat formation. An ostracon is a teaching tool usually made up of a piece of broken pottery that has something written or sketched on it that passes along an important story. On one side of the ostracon, as interpreted by Bill Shea, it has an inked-on drawing of a man with two birds. One is on his arm, and the other is being released. Below it is a bird flying back that has a branch in its mouth. The other side shows a man with a mustache and a beard, and has a hammer and spike in his hands. Shea interprets this as Noah likely building the Ark. 11. Dr. Robert Michelson discovered an ossuary in 1998 above the Durupinar site that dates back to around 1600 BC, 900 years after the Great Flood. This would have been the time Noah’s descendants inhabited the area. An ossuary is an item the deceased person’s bones are put in and kept for long-term purposes. This was only done for very important people. 12. There are also other ancient relics one would expect to find at a site that has been venerated for thousands of years. Historical Accounts of the Location of Noah’s Ark The Gilgamesh Epic gives Mt. Nisir as the landing place of the Ark. The local name for the town where the Ark was found is Nasar. The town just above the boat-shaped object was formerly called Nasar. This is similar to Niser that the Babylonian writer Berossus described as being near the Ark site in the third century BC. Flavius Josephus, a Jewish historian living around the time of Christ, wrote: “Its remains are shown there by the inhabitants to this day.” This means the Ark was not on top of Mt. Ararat as it’s covered in ice virtually year-round. Theophilus of Antioch (115-185 AD) said the Ark could be seen in his day in the Arabian mountains. Later, Church Fathers also mention the Ark as late as the mid-7th century AD. Ptolemy’s Geographia (1548) mentions the mountains of Armenia as the place of landing. So does the traveler Nicolas de Nicolay (1558). It was reported that Pilgrims visiting the site would gather bits and pieces of the petrified wood which would be used as charms to ward off evil. When they encountered the drogue and anchor stones, they had no doubt as to their association with the Ark. All these accounts suggest that the location of Noah’s Ark was in an accessible place like the Durupinar Site and not on the inaccessible upper part of Mt. Ararat. Is There Evidence for Noah’s Ark on Mt. Ararat? Over the past several hundred years, some have claimed to have spotted the Ark on the upper part of Mt. Ararat, but no substantial evidence has been produced. For example, Fernand Navarra claimed to have touched the Ark and supposedly brought down from the mountain wood from the Ark. However, when the wood was tested, it was far too young to be that of Noah’s Ark, and those accompanying him later revealed that Navarra carried the wood up to the mountain earlier and then brought it down to promote his book called, “Noah’s Ark: I Touched It.” There have been others as well who have claimed to have found pieces of the Ark, but they have been discredited as hoaxes. Many claim the evidence points to Mt. Ararat as being a more recent volcano that happened after the Flood. This is evidenced by the type of rock formations, the lack of sea fossil records, and no sentiment deposits that would result from the mountain being underwater. If this is the case, then it would be impossible for Noah’s Ark to be on Mt. Ararat because it wouldn’t have even existed when the Flood occurred. Another major reason why Noah’s Ark is unlikely on top of Mt. Ararat is that the Bible and geology support that before the Flood, there was a water canopy above the earth that caused a greenhouse-like effect on the whole earth. This is why there has been found lush tropical vegetation evidence at the northern and southern poles. When the Flood occurred, the water canopy in the sky came down upon the earth, and the earth’s climate was permanently changed. The earth was exposed to the upper atmosphere without a water canopy, causing instant freezing toward the northern and southern poles and the higher elevation mountains. Mt. Ararat is the tallest mountain in Turkey and is about 17,000 ft. or 5,165 m. above sea level. The claims to the locations of Noah’s Ark on Mt. Ararat are at the upper elevations where the glaciers are found. Most of these proposed sightings are above what is called the “tree line.” This is the level where vegetation stops growing. With this being the case, it seems illogical and contrary to God’s supernatural protection of the Ark, and those in it, to allow the Ark to rest on the upper elevations of Mt. Ararat as it would have been in a place of severe freezing temperatures, a harsh environment, extremely rough terrain, and hard to descend from to lower elevations. In fact, of the deaths occurring to those who climb Mt. Ararat, most happen on the descent down the mountain. All this causes me to question the validity of Noah’s Ark being on the upper part of Mt. Ararat, as some claim. It just seems unlikely that God would cause the Ark to rest on the top of a massive mountain with such a harsh environment for Noah and the animals to have to confront. Also, there would have been no vegetation at such a high altitude for survival. They would have had to rapidly descend the mountain in order to survive. Again, it all seems contrary to God’s nature and His care for those inside the Ark. It seems much more logical to believe the Ark came to rest at the Durupinar site, which is much lower, flatter, and environmentally friendly for life after the Flood. The Durupinar Site Is the Best Candidate for the Location of Noah’s Ark In summary, taking into account all the evidence at the Durupinar Site, it is by far the best candidate for the location of Noah’s Ark. Now while the boat-shaped formation is intriguing, I believe all the other evidence is sufficient to believe this area is the site of Noah’s Ark even without taking into consideration the boat-shaped formation. The names of the places in the area, the drogue stones, the relics, carvings on the stones, and so forth provide weighty evidence that this is very likely the true site of Noah’s Ark. In archaeology, the history and length of time a site has been venerated is highly valued. It’s certain that this site has been venerated for thousands of years and wouldn’t have been so if it wasn’t highly valued. This Durupinar Site certainly meets all the criteria of archaeology to be considered the most likely place of Noah’s Ark. Faith Lesson from Noah’s Ark 1. Do we truly believe that the biblical account of Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood really happened? Today, there is a raging battle taking place between those who want to eliminate a literal account of the creation of the universe and the Great Flood account as found in Genesis 1–8. The battle is between those who attempt to explain every earthly event by using only the natural laws of nature. In other words, they eliminate the existence of God and the supernatural. Therefore, they are only left with natural explanations for everything that occurred in the past. God tells us that the answer to these apparent dilemmas is faith. Hebrews 11:3 tells us that: By faith we understand that the worlds were framed [created] by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. Creation was a supernatural event that we should believe by faith. Additionally, God says that without faith it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 says: But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Mankind’s problem is that they trust in their own intelligence and beliefs rather than trusting in God. Proverbs 3:5 clarifies this problem and the solution: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. God identifies unbelief as a sin in the Bible. Hebrews 3:12 says: Take care, brothers and sisters, that there will not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God. What about us? Do we believe God created the universe and all that exists in six literal days, as the Bible says, or do we lean on the understanding of so-called scientists and others who say otherwise? Also, do we believe there was a literal flood like God says, or do we believe people instead? It’s really a matter of whom we choose to believe. Do we believe what God says in the Bible or people? It’s that simple. 2. Do we understand why God sent the Flood? The purpose of the Great Flood was to destroy all the wicked people on the earth. Now while this might sound cruel, it is actually an exercise of God’s mercy and justice. Sin causes heartache and suffering. When sin reaches such a severe state, then God will step in and eliminate it. This is what He did with the Flood, Sodom and Gomorrah, the Canaanites, and so forth. Also, we believe children go to heaven if they die before the age of accountability. So, instead of having to suffer at the hand of the wicked, they go to heaven. And lastly, everyone will die sooner or later, so in the grand scheme of time, it doesn’t matter a whole lot if a person dies young or old. What matters is that they are right with God and following Him. Also, God is just in punishing the wicked, whether it be during their time on earth or after they die. So what about us? Do we realize that we all will stand before God and give an account of our lives? If we are believers, we will be judged for how we used our gifts and abilities for God, not whether we will go to hell. Those who reject God and His offer of salvation through Jesus Christ will be judged and sent to hell. 3. Do we believe Noah and the Great Flood are examples of judgment to come? Before God destroyed all the wicked in the Flood, He gave them sufficient time to repent. However, they continued in their wickedness and rejected their Creator. It is the same today. Jesus said in Matthew 24:37–39: But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 38 For as in the days before the Flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, 39 and did not know until the Flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. And 1 Peter 3:20 speaks of how God patiently waited for the wicked to turn to Him before He sent the Great Flood: When once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. Moreover, 2 Peter 2:4 says: For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; 5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the Flood on the world of the ungodly. 4. Do we believe God is patiently waiting, like in the days of Noah, for people to turn from their sin and get right with their Creator? 2 Peter 3:3–14 says: Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue just as they were from the beginning of creation.” 5 For when they maintain this, it escapes their notice that by the word of God the heavens existed long ago and the earth was formed out of water and by water, 6 through which the world at that time was destroyed by being flooded with water. 7 But by His word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly people. 8 But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. 9 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be discovered. 11 Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! 13 But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. 14 Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found spotless and blameless by Him, at peace. 5. What about us? Have we received Christ as our Savior, and are we right with God?

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The true location of the Garden of Eden is somewhat uncertain. However, we believe the evidence leads to just north of the Persian Gulf. The Genesis account describes Eden as located at the conjunction of four major rivers, two of which exist today: the Tigris and the Euphrates. Garden of Eden Location Garden of Eden Location The Garden of Eden is described by the Book of Genesis as being the place where the first man and woman, Adam and Eve, were created by God and lived until they fell and were expelled. The Hebrew meaning of Eden is pleasure and delight. It was heaven on earth at that time. The Garden of Eden is the first location mentioned in the Bible (Genesis 2) and is the backdrop for one of the most iconic stories of the Bible. Whether or not you believe this to be true history or a purely symbolic or legendary account, it seems undeniable that the Bible treats the Garden as a real place. Was the Garden of Eden a Real Place? We believe the Garden of Eden was a real place that existed at the beginning of creation. Its location is given in stark detail, along with the story of Adam and Eve. Even Jesus affirmed its reality on a number of occasions. This validates its reality and existence substantially. Matthew 19:4-5: He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh?'" This is a direct reference to Genesis 2:24: Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. We also believe God is the Author of Scripture, so we take the Genesis account literally and as inspired writing by God. Additionally, all the places mentioned about the location of the Garden of Eden are real places as well. Many of which can be found even today. Why Has the Garden of Eden Been Difficult to Locate? The main reason it has been difficult to locate is because of the transaction of the Hebrew in Genesis 2:10. Some Bible translations make it seem there is one river flowing out of the Garden that forms four other rivers. Other translations make it sound like there is one river but mention four headwaters. The Hebrew in this text is somewhat vague. We'll address this issue first because when it's understood, it makes the location much easier to locate. In fact, it makes it very easy to locate. Let's look at a few translations of Genesis 2:10 to understand better what this might mean. English Standard Version A river flowed out of Eden to water the garden, and there it divided and became four rivers. New American Standard Bible Now a river flowed out of Eden to water the garden; and from there it divided and became four rivers. New International Version A river watering the garden flowed from Eden; from there it was separated into four headwaters. New King James Version Now a river went out of Eden to water the garden, and from there it parted and became four riverheads. King James Bible And a river went out of Eden to water the garden; and from thence it was parted, and became into four heads. We notice here that some of the translations mention four river heads. The Hebrew in this verse allows the understanding of four rivers making one river instead of one river turning into four. This is why the word "heads" is used in some translations. In the Anchor Bible Commentary of Genesis, E.A. Speiser explains this meaning. He says, "In verses 10 (see Notes) the term 'heads' can have nothing to do with streams into which the river breaks up after it leaves Eden, but designates instead four separate branches which have merged within Eden." In other words, instead of one main river becoming four separate rivers in Eden, four rivers become one in Eden. The mention of four river heads designates this. The river heads are what flow into one river so that in Eden, four rivers become one, and then the one river flows. Speiser continues, "There is thus no basis for detouring the Gihon to Ethiopia, not to mention the search for the Pishon in the various remote regions of the world." In other words, the Gihon and Pishon Rivers are going to be located in the same area as the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers. In his book, "On the Reliability of the Old Testament," K.A. Kitchen also holds this view. When conveying the point that instead of one river becoming four, four rivers (headwaters) became one. He says, "This is a 'snapshot' -type view taken looking out from where the single stream entered the grade, and looking back just upstream to the point where the four 'head' rivers came together to form the single stream that entered the garden" (Pages 428-429). Therefore, Kitchen also believes the Hebrew in Genesis 2:10 refers to four rivers becoming one, not one river becoming four. Additionally, in ancient Hebrew, the word "head" didn't necessarily refer to the beginning of a river, but rather, it indicated a place where a river intersected with other bodies of water. It should also be mentioned that nowhere on earth can there be found one river that turns into four. There is also no point where the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers (whose locations are very well known today) have a point where one river turns into two. The idea of one river turning into four rivers contradicts how water tributaries function. They always go from smaller rivers merging with larger rivers and growing until they empty into some ocean. The idea of larger rivers turning into smaller rivers just doesn't happen. So, I believe the best understanding of Genesis 2:10 is that four rivers joined together in the Garden of Eden to make one river. When we understand this, then the location of the Garden of Eden becomes much easier. It Appears Genesis Was Written from a Post-Flood Perspective This seems to be the case because all the locations in Genesis are mentioned and known throughout the Bible after the flood. With this being the case, it seems the Garden of Eden location is something God wanted us to know about, and its area was known after the flood. Therefore, we should be able to locate its general vicinity today. This doesn't mean the Garden is like it was before the fall because God cursed the earth, and things drastically changed for Eden. However, its location still exists. Wh ere Are the Locations Given for the Garden of Eden? After Genesis 2:10 describes four rivers becoming one in Eden, it provides numerous locations. Let's look at them one by one. 1. The land of Havilah, where there is gold. Genesis 2:11-12: The name of the first is the Pishon; it winds through the entire land of Havilah , where there is gold . 12(The gold of that land is good; aromatic resin and onyx are also there.) Genesis 25:18 tells us exactly where Havilah is: They settled from Havilah to Shur, which is east of Egypt, going toward Assyria ; he settled in defiance of all his relatives. So the land of Havilah is directly between Egypt and Assyria. This makes the location of Havilah very clear. Before the time of King Solomon, this area was known as Havilah. After the time of Solomon, it was known as Arabia. Many Bible verses confirm this. Genesis 2:12 also mentions that the land of Havilah was rich in gold. I t should be noted that this Havilah area still has many gold mines and is famous for gold production. In fact, it has around 55 gold mines still in operation today. This matches perfectly with what Genesis 2 :12 says about it being rich in gold. Additionally, in this region, we find a place called Adh Dhahab, which means “cradle of gold.” Scholar Carol Hill says it “was the largest and one of the richest gold mines of the ancient world.” It is, therefore, very likely that this is the location of the gold that Genesis associates with the land of Havilah. Other passages (Genesis 10:7, 29; 25:18; 1 Samuel 15:7; 1 Chronicles 1:9, 23) suggest Havilah is in Arabia or nearby. Bible scholar Gordon Wenham summarizes, “On this basis, the Pishon must either be identified with an Arabian river, or with the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea ‘which goes round all the land of Havilah.’” In summary, the location of Havilah is very certain and is a key location in the search for Eden. 2. The Pishon River Genesis 2:11 says the Pishon River "winds through the entire Land of Havilah." This means the Pishon River is in this area. The climate has changed since the writing of Genesis so this river today is not exactly certain. However, there is a large dry riverbed called "Wadi al Rummah," which turns into Wadi al Batim close to its end, which matches this river exactly. The location of the Pishon River seems to be where Wadi al Rummah (Wadi Ar Rumah), which becomes Wadi al Batin, is today. It was first located in 1994 when Dr. Farouk El-Baz, Director of the Center for Remote Sensing at Boston University and a pioneering figure in remote sensing, used ground-penetrating radar images from the Space Shuttle to locate and trace the bed of an ancient river that flowed for about 600 miles (965 kilometers) through Saudi Arabia, ending in Kuwait where it became a broad watercourse three miles (almost five kilometers) wide. Joel Kramer, an archaeologist, recently explored this riverbed from its beginning in the mountains to its end. He found the same rocks in the mountains that are down toward its end. This means this river once flowed and carried these rocks as it flowed. The climate of Havilah changed at some point. Maybe this occurred during the same time God changed the climate around the Dead Sea when He destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah and the other three cities in its area. The Dead Sea area was once watered like the Garden of the Lord, as mentioned in Genesis 13:10, but is now a barren wasteland . So, the Pishon River, which runs through the middle of Arabia and is now a dry riverbed, once flowed with abundant water in ancient times due to a wetter climate. In summary, it's safe to say that the area of Havilah is known today and is where the Pishon River ran through to its end, where it joined the other three rivers, as mentioned in Genesis 2:10-14. 3. The L and of Cush Genesis 2:13 mentions that the Gihon River is in the land of Cush: The name of the second river is the Gihon; it winds through the entire land of Cush . There are generally two locations where Cush is referenced in the Bible. The first is in the area of modern-day Iraq, north of the Persian Gulf. The second reference is in Africa and translated as Ethiopia (where modern-day Sudan is located). Some of this confusion regarding the location of Cush stems from the incorrect assumption that Cush refers to the kingdom of Cush located immediately south of Egypt in Africa (Ethiopia), which leads to the conclusion that the Gihon must be the Nile River (as Josephus also surmised). But the story makes it clear that the four rivers of Eden joined together, so the Nile River doesn't fit the biblical description of its location as it doesn't join the other rivers and is on an entirely different continent. Cush derives its name from Cush, a son of Ham, son of Noah. In its beginning, we see that the land of Cush encompassed the land of Mesopotamia, just to the east of where the Garden of Eden is located. Genesis 10:6-11: The sons of Ham: Cush , Egypt, Put, and Canaan. 7 The sons of Cush: Seba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, and Sabteca. The sons of Raamah: Sheba and Dedan. 8 Cush fathered Nimrod ; he was the first on earth to be a mighty man. 9 He was a mighty hunter before the Lord. Therefore it is said, “Like Nimrod a mighty hunter before the Lord.” 10 The beginning of his kingdom was Babel , Erech, Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar . 11 From that land he went into Assyria and built Nineveh, Rehoboth-Ir, Calah, and 12 Resen between Nineveh and Calah ; that is the great city. The land of Cush is mentioned throughout the Old Testament, and Cushites regularly interacted with Israelites. Cush was located at the beginning of biblical history, near the head of the Persian Gulf, but afterward, in the migration of the Cushite family, the name was applied to s outheast and southern Arabia and gradually to western Arabia not long before the time of Solomon. After that time, the Cushites spread to northern Africa. Wherever Ethiopia occurs in our English translation of the Scriptures, it is Cush in the Hebrew. Which of the places the Cushites settled is where the Gihon River was located? It would have to be in the area north of the Persian Gulf because that's where the other rivers mentioned are mentioned in Genesis. It's also the land where the kingdom of Cush began, as mentioned in Genesis 10:6-11. 4. Gihon River Genesis 2:13 mentions that the Gihon River is in the land of Cush: The name of the second river is the Gihon; it winds through the entire land of Cush . Now that we know where the land of Cush was located, we only need to look for the Gihon River in this area. The Gihon River is not mentioned today, but it's believed to be the Karun River as it runs through the land of Cush and joins the Euphrates, Tigris, and Pishon Rivers just north of the Persian Gulf. It matches perfectly with the biblical account. Other candidates for the Gihon River are the Karkheh River and Dez River. These two rivers also flow through Western Iran and meet up with the Tigris and Euphrates. Genesis links this Gihon river with the land of Cush, which, in this view, is tied to the Kassites. 5 . East Side of Ashur Genesis 2:14 mentions the Tigris River and that it ran along the east side of Ashur: The name of the third river is the Tigris; it runs along the east side of Ashur . Ashur is well known as Assyria during the Old Testament period. In fact, many Bible translations say Assyria instead of Ashur. 6. Tigris River This is easy to locate as it's the same Tigris River that exists today. It is exactly where the Bible places it in Genesis 2:14. The Tigris River (know n by the Hebrews as "Hiddekel") is one of the two large rivers of Mesopotamia, which the Bible says, flowed to the Garden of Eden. The phrase "the great river" is used to describe the Tigris in Daniel 10:42. The Tigris is formed by the confluence of two rivers that flow from the mountains of Armenia. The Tigris River joins the Euphrates River north of the Persian Gulf. Its location and the fact that it joins the Euphrates River fits perfectly with the Bible's location of the Garden of Eden area. 7. Euphrates River The latter part of Genesis 2:14 says, "And the fourth river is the Euphrates ." Interestingly, this river is the only one without any description of the land in which it's located. Why is this so? I believe it's because the river was so well known at the time Genesis was written that the audience had no need to know its location. It would be the same today; this river is so well known that all you have to do is mention its name, and most people know where it is. The Euphrates River runs almost parallel to the Tigris. These two rivers defined a large part of the Fertile Crescent, the cradle of civilization in ancient times. This gives further weight to the belief that where all these rivers met was the area in which the Garden of Eden was located. The Euphrates River is mentioned in God’s promise to Abraham regarding the Land of Israel and is used as one of the defining borders of the Promised Land. We are also told that there was a time when Jewish civilization had spread so far that members of the tribe of Reuben were living all the way to the banks of the Euphrates River. Summary of All the Locations for the Garden of Eden As we have pointed out, the four rivers mentioned in Genesis 2:10-14 refer to four heads of rivers joining together to form one river. Not one river that separates and becomes four rivers. One thing can be certain: All the rivers mentioned in Genesis 2:10-14 must meet at some point. And with the locations of the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers being well known, the only place this can happen is just a little north of the Persian Gulf. Where Is the Garden of Eden? Considering all the locations we have looked at, we can safely locate where the Garden of Eden existed. The most common location for the Garden of Eden is in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). The primary reason is the mention of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers which flow through that country. This view has been accepted by Christians from antiquity down to modern times. Another location that has been proposed is the region around Armenia because this is the general area where the Tigris and Euphrates originate. However, as we've learned, there is no place in this area where these two rivers join. Tree of Knowledge (Adam's Garden Shrine) Interestingly, i n the small southern city of Qurna (also spelled Qurnah and pronounced “gurna”) in Iraq, an unusual shrine stands on the shore where the T igris and Euphrates Rivers meet. A small, dead tree, protected by low brick walls and surrounded by a concrete plaza. According to legend, this tree is the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, which Eve ate from in the Garden of Eden. Now, realistically, this would not be the actual tree, as the original tree existed well over 6,000 years ago. However, it's a shrine marking the area. Qurna has been noted in travelers’ accounts for centuries as the place where the great Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet and join together for a few miles before emptying into the Persian Gulf. Elements from the early stories of Genesis have been traced to the cuneiform tablets written by the Sumerians and Babylonians, who lived in this part of the world. This is just one more piece of evidence pointing to this area as the authentic place of Eden. Even if this shrine is not the actual exact spot, I believe it's in the general area where the Garden of Eden was located. How Big Was the Garden of Eden? I'm not certain about you, but I must confess that before all my investigation regarding the location of Eden, I pictured the Garden about the size of a small valley. However, it appears it was much larger than this. It was quite large, most likely the size of a small country. Faith Lesson 1. God made everything perfect, including Adam and Eve. Genesis 1:31: And God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good . And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day. God made everything perfect. It was all good. No imperfections, stains, or sin. What about us? Do we believe God made everything perfect at the beginning of creation? 2. Disobedience Led to Paradise Lost God created everything perfect for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. However, because of their disobedience to God by eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, sin and death began, and the entire earth was cursed. Genesis 2:15: The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die .” Satan lied to Adam and Eve and deceived them. But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die . 5 For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” 6 So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. 7 Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths. Satan continues to lie to us today and says, "Has God said ? " When we believe Satan's lies and go our own way, we reap death and destruction. Galatians 6:7-8: Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life . As a result of the fall of mankind in Eden, humanity is lost in sin and destruction, and without hope. 3. Paradise Regained The hope of eternal life and paradise can now be restored through the gift of Jesus Christ. He died for our sins, rose from the dead, proving to have power over death and sin, and offers us the free gift of paradise with Him in heaven forever. John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life . 4. The Tree of Life The Garden of Eden environment will exist forever in heaven. Revelation 22:1-5: And he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, 2 in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life , bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 There will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him; 4 they will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads. 5 And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God will illuminate them; and they will reign forever and ever. What about us? Do we have the hope of eternal life in paradise with God Himself? This is the most important issue of life. Life has no purpose without God and this hope.

Capernaum was the ministry base of Jesus during His ministry time on earth. Learn about the amazing things that happened there and in the surrounding area. Capernaum is located on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee. Capernaum was located on the Via Maris, which was the main international highway of the known world during the time of Christ. Sites of interest include: Mount Arbel, Magdala, Gennesaret, Tabhga, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Kirsi, Feeding the 5,000. Capernaum Photo Gallery Places of Interest Capernaum Introduction Welcome to Capernaum. Many significant events from the Bible took place here. Here are the highlights. 1. Christ left Nazareth to live and establish His ministry base in Capernaum. 2. Jesus most likely lived with Peter, whose home is here. Jesus frequently taught in the Synagogue in Capernaum. 3. Jesus healed Peter’s mother and many others here in Capernaum. 4. In Capernaum, Jesus forgave and healed a paralyzed man. This likely happened right at the home where Jesus lived. 5. Christ marveled at the great faith of a centurion in Capernaum. The Parables of the Kingdom were preached close to Capernaum. 6. The miracle of Peter getting money from a fish's mouth to pay the temple tax for himself and Jesus happened in Capernaum. 7. Jesus called Matthew, the tax collector, close to Capernaum. Capernaum was one of the three towns Christ cursed because of their unbelief in Him. 8. It's right on the seashore. Location 1. Capernaum is located on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee. 2. Capernaum was located on the Via Maris, the main international highway of the world at the time of Christ. The Via Maris linked the three continents of Africa, Asia, and Europe. Travelers were forced to use this route as there were few other options for traveling to and from each continent. The north shore of the Sea of Galilee was even more traveled than the roads and routes leading through Jerusalem. It might appear that Christ set up His ministry base in a remote place. However, just the opposite was true. He chose the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee (and Capernaum was located at a key place along the Via Maris) as a center stage so His message would reach as many as possible worldwide. By spending most of His ministry time in the northern Galilee area, Christ’s miracles traveled by word of mouth to the ends of the earth. This laid the groundwork and sowed the seeds of the gospel to the rest of the known world. As a result, evangelism done later on by the apostles would be easier and more acceptable. 3. Today, Capernaum is shared between two sites. The Franciscan site receives around 90% of visitors as it possesses the synagogue, Peter’s home, village ruins, ancient artifacts, and nice access to the beach. The Greek Orthodox site has chosen to remain basically unexcavated and serene. Historical Background 1. The name Capernaum is derived from two words: Caper, which means "village," and Naum, which means "rest," and is also from the title, Nahum. Therefore, some believe that the town was named after the Prophet Nahum, and some believe it was simply a place of rest. 2. Capernaum was a fishing village with a population of around 1,000 during the time of Christ. It encompassed what is today both the Franciscan and Greek Orthodox sites. 3. Capernaum became the hometown of Jesus after He moved from his boyhood home of Nazareth. It also became the ministry headquarters of Christ during His ministry on earth. Matthew 4:13–17: And leaving Nazareth he went and lived in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, 14 so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: 15 "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— 16 the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned." 17 From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Why was the Galilee area called "Galilee of the Gentiles ?" After the Assyrian conquest in around 722 BC, the Assyrians removed much of the Jewish population and imported people from other places they had conquered into the area. Later, after the Babylonian conquest, the Jews once again populated the area. However, many of these foreigners remained in the area, so it was called Galilee of the Gentiles. 4. Capernaum is mentioned more than any other town around the Sea of Galilee. 5. Capernaum was also the home of Peter, James, Andrew, John, and Matthew. 6. The Synagogue in Capernaum was built by a Roman Centurion of whom Jesus healed his servant. Luke 7:5 says regarding this centurion, “For he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our synagogue .” 7. The synagogue that existed during Christ’s time is made from black basalt stone, and its foundations are under the current synagogue, built out of limestone. 8. The current synagogue was built in the 4th century and was quite luxurious and impressive. This happened because Capernaum became a venerated site due to its role as the ministry base and home of Jesus and other apostles. 9. The home of the Apostle Peter has been identified, and a large modern church has been built over it. The location of Peter’s home is certain and has been verified by many substantial archaeological excavations. 10. Greek Orthodox site of Capernaum. This church was built in 1931 and dedicated to the twelve apostles. Places of Interest 1. Peter's Home It has been clearly identified and verified by five layers of archaeological excavations. It has also been identified as the home of Jesus. This makes sense, as single people didn't live alone but with family or close friends. This is verified by the 1st-century AD graffiti with the names of Jesus and Peter found here. It contained the central kitchen and living quarters, and then individual bedrooms were connected to it. The original home's floor and some walls can still be seen today in the very center of the buildings. Layers of Evidence Layer 1: 50-75 AD ~ Early Christian believers marked out this site and began venerating and protecting it soon after the return of Christ to heaven. Layer 2: 375 AD ~ Christians built a wall around the home of Peter to protect and set it apart from the other homes of Capernaum. This wall would be outside the octagon church walls built around 450 AD. This building was likely used as a church as well. Layer 3: 475 AD ~ An octagon-shaped church with a small apse was built over the earlier church. The apse points east. A Pilgrim of Placenza who visited this site at this time period also verifies this. This church seems to have been destroyed during the Muslim reign around 650 AD. It would lay abandoned for some time. Layer 4: 1100 AD ~ During the Crusader period, several structures were built in the area of the abandoned earlier church. Layer 5: 1990 AD ~ In 1990, the current church was built over Peter’s house’s previous ruins. You can walk inside it and look down at the ruins through a glass floor in the church. 2 . Village Houses Millstone All homes were somewhat similar . The people seem to have been similar in income status. 3 . The Synagogue The lower synagogue, made out of basalt rock, is from the time of Jesus. The current synagogue made out of limestone is from the latter part of the fourth century (375 AD). A bema altar was found that revealed the synagogue's face toward Jerusalem. The synagogue has an adjacent building that was likely used for studying the Scriptures, a schoolroom for children, and a meeting area. This synagogue had two levels. The lower level is for men, and the upper is for women. The Torah Scroll Cart would be rolled into the center of the synagogue to read the Scriptures. The people would sit around the edges of the synagogue. The synagogue also functioned as a community meeting place and school. The synagogue has inscriptions on the two front pillars. One is in Greek, and the other is in Aramaic. The inscriptions recognize those who helped build the building. Jesus preached in this synagogue. Mark 1:21–22: And they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath, he entered the synagogue and was teaching. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. 4. Ancient A rtifacts Stairs that led up to the second story of the synagogue during Jesus' time. Olive Press and a Gethsemane (press for crushing olives). The first press of olives, called "virgin oil," was sent to the temple in Jerusalem. The second press was used for cooking and eating, and the press was also used for lubrication, ointment, medicinal use, and oil lamps. Via Maris Roman Road Post Marker ~ This verifies that Capernaum was located on the Via Mares. Pillar inscribed with a family name (Alphaeus) mentioned in the Bible. The marker says: "Alphaeus, the son of Zebedee, the son of John, made this column. May it be for him a blessing." So, this column was made and donated by a family member of Matthew several generations later. Mark 2:13-14: As He passed by, He saw Levi [Matthew] the son of Alphaeus sitting in the tax office, and He said to him, “Follow Me!” And he got up and followed Him. Alphaeus was a family last name. A Frieze with a Star ~ Some misunderstand this star and think it refers to the Star of David. Actually, it refers to a verse in the Bible found in Numbers 24:17: "I see him, but not now; I look at him, but not near; a star shall appear from Jacob, a scepter shall rise from Israel." So, it doesn't refer to the star of David. This six-pointed star came into existence in the 17th century AD and was the official seal of many Jewish communities and a general sign of Judaism but to Jesu s. Torah Scroll Cart Stone Carving ~ This carving shows the Torah Scroll Cart, which would have scrolls inside and be rolled in and out of the synagogue when needed. Winepress ~ Grapes were crushed by foot to avoid crushing the seeds, which would make the wine bitter. 5. Capernaum Greek Orthodox Site 6. Capernaum National Park It has a peer, which is a great place to walk out onto the Sea of Galilee. Capernaum in the Bible 1. Christ left Nazareth to live and set up His ministry base in Capernaum. Matthew 4:13-16: And leaving Nazareth he went and lived in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali. This happened so that what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet would be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, by the way of the sea, on the other side of the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles. The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great Light, and those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death, upon them a Light dawned.” This quotation from Isaiah 9:1–2 emphasizes that in this region where the Assyrians decimated and scattered the northern tribes of Israel, which brought darkness and death, would be the first to receive the light brought by the preaching of the Messiah. 2. Jesus frequently taught in the Synagogue in Capernaum. Mark 1:21–28: And they went into Capernaum , and immediately on the Sabbath, he entered the synagogue and was teaching . 22 And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. 23 And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, 24 "What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God." 25 But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent, and come out of him!" 26 And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying out with a loud voice, came out of him. 27 And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, "What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him." 28 And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout all the surrounding region of Galilee. 3. Jesus healed Peter’s mother and many others here in Capernaum. Mark 1:29–34: And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 Now Simon's mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. 31 And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. 32 That evening at sundown they brought to him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. 33 And the whole city was gathered together at the door. 34 And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. 4. In Capernaum, Jesus forgave and healed a paralyzed man. This likely happened right at the home where Jesus lived. Mark 2:1–5: And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. 2 And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them. 3 And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. 4 And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay. 5 And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven.” 5. Christ marveled at the great faith of a centurion in Capernaum. Luke 7:1–10: After he had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum . 2 Now a centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him. 3 When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his servant. 4 And when they came to Jesus, they pleaded with him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him, 5 for he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our synagogue.” 6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. 7 Therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” 10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well. 6. The Parables of the Kingdom were preached close to Capernaum. Matthew 13:1–3: That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. 2 Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. 3 And He spoke many things to them in parables. 7. The miracle of Peter getting money from a fish's mouth to pay the temple tax for himself and Jesus happened in Capernaum. Matthew 17:24-27: When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax went up to Peter and said, "Does your teacher not pay the tax?" 25 He said, "Yes." And when he came into the house, Jesus spoke to him first, saying, "What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tax? From their sons or from others?" 26 And when he said, "From others," Jesus said to him, "Then the sons are free. 27 However, not to give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for me and for yourself. 8. Jesus called Matthew, the tax collector, close to Capernaum. Matthew 9:9: As Jesus passed on from there [Capernaum], he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. 9. Capernaum was one of the three towns Christ cursed because of their unbelief in Him. Matthew 11:23–24: And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You will be brought down to Hades. For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24 But I tell you that it will be more tolerable on the Day of Judgment for the land of Sodom than for you. Faith Lesson from Capernaum 1. Christ astonished the large crowds who followed him because He taught with authority. He was completely different from all other teachers because He was God in the flesh. Are we astonished today as we read Christ’s teachings in His Word? 2. Christ healed multitudes of people in and around Capernaum. He also showed He was God as He forgave their sins. Forgiving sins is something only God can do. Do we believe Christ was God in the flesh and full deity? 3. Christ marveled at the great faith of a Roman Centurion. Do we trust God in such a way that He would marvel at our faith? 4. Unfortunately, Christ cursed the town of Capernaum because of their unbelief in Him. After all they had seen, and after many of them had been healed by Jesus, they still were filled with unbelief. Unbelief is, therefore, a sin. Do we have unbelief in Christ and who He claimed to be? Do we also have unbelief in trusting Him in our daily lives when things don’t seem to make sense?