Additional sites of interest in Jerusalem: Bible Lands Museum, Burnt House, Cardo, Christ Church Jerusalem, Church of John the Baptist, Church of James, Christian Information Center, Dormition Abbey, Wohl Museum, Hurva Plaza, Israel Museum, Shrine of the Book, Model City of Jerusalem, Little Western Wall, Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Mahane Yehuda Market, Rooftop Walk, Ramparts Walk, Temple Institute, Tower of David Museum, Holocaust Museum, Zedekiah’s Cave. Other Sites of Interest in Jerusalem Photo Gallery Places of Interest Other Sites of Interest in Jerusalem Aish HaTorah Observation Point Aish HaTorah's Observation Deck overlooking the Western Wall sits atop the Aish HaTorah World Center in the Jewish Quarter and was named “One of the Top Ten Panoramic Views in the World.” It offers a 360-degree view of Jerusalem's most important sites: the Western Wall Plaza, the Temple Mount, the Mount of Olives, the City of David, the Judean Hills, and the Judean Desert. A detailed model of the original temple built by King Solomon also helps visitors visualize the magnificence of Mount Moriah in the 10th century BC. Bible Lands Museum The Bible Lands Museum places an exciting journey of the people of the Bible and their cultures into historical context, bringing greater appreciation and understanding of biblical stories within human history from a biblical perspective. On display are the great civilizations that rose and flourished in this region: Sumer, Egypt, Babylon, Assyria, Canaan, Persia, Greece, and Rome, which were responsible for the advancements of Western civilization. Established in 1992, the Bible Lands Museum is situated in the city's cultural heart and holds a unique collection dating back to the beginning of written history. An audio guide is available in English and Hebrew. The Burnt House Museum This museum is an excavated house from the Second Temple period located six meters below the current street level of the Jewish Quarter in the Old City of Jerusalem. A wealthy priestly family inhabited it at the end of the Second Temple period, and it is believed to have been set on fire during the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. In the early Roman period, this area was the “Upper City,” located on the higher hill west of the temple. In the museum, visitors can watch a short film about the Roman invasion and life in the Second Temple period. The Burnt House is included in the “Jewish Quarter Combined Ticket” purchase, which includes access to the tower at Hurva Synagogue and the Herodian Quarter Museum. The site is on Tiferet-Yisrael Street in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. Christ Church Jerusalem Christ Church Jerusalem is an Anglican church located inside the Old City of Jerusalem. Bishop Samuel Gobat consecrated it in 1849, and it is the oldest Protestant church building in the Middle East. The Church’s Ministry Among Jewish People (CMJ) helped finance the church’s construction and has been active in the Land of Israel since the 1820s. Their mission statement reads: “Driven by a commitment to the God of Israel and the people of Israel, our purpose at CMJ Israel is to represent the Love of Yeshua (Jesus) in word and deed with the Jewish people and Gentiles living in the Land and visiting from abroad.” The church is part of a small compound just inside the Jaffa Gate opposite King David’s citadel, and the compound includes the Heritage Center museum, Beit Bracha guest house (meaning House of Blessing), which is a bed and breakfast and prayer garden. The Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist This Catholic church is in the picturesque village of Ein Karem, 4.5 miles (7.5 km) southwest of Jerusalem. The church and monastery were built over the ruins of ancient Herodian, Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader layers. Inside the church is a cave, where, according to tradition, was the birthplace of John the Baptist. The Franciscan Order of monks purchased the property in 1674 and restored the church with help from the Spanish royal family. In 1941–42, excavations west of the church uncovered graves, rock-cut chambers, wine presses, and small chapels with mosaic tiling. The southern rock-cut chamber contained ceramics dating back to the first century BC, which is the presumed lifetime of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and John. Church of St. James Located within a walled compound in the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City is the Church of St. James, honoring two martyred believers of that name — James the Great, one of the first apostles to follow Jesus, and James the Less, believed to be a close relative of Jesus and a key leader of the church in Jerusalem. James the Great was beheaded by Herod Agrippa I, around 44 AD (Acts 12:1–2). James the Less was martyred by temple authorities about 20 years later by being thrown from the temple platform, then stoned to death. According to Armenian tradition, the church contains the head of James the Great and the body of James the Less. Church of St. John the Baptist The Greek Church of St. John the Baptist, in the Christian Quarter of the Old City, is easy to spot by its distinctive silvery dome. This is Jerusalem's oldest church, built in the mid-5th century and restored after the Persians destroyed it in 614 AD. Italian merchants built the current building between the 8th and 11th centuries, and the Crusaders renovated it in the 12th century. The ancient church, more than seven meters below street level, is still accessible via a staircase. According to Greek Orthodox tradition, this church held the head of John the Baptist. The entrance is on Christian Quarter Rd., where it intersects David St. Christian Information Center The Christian Information Center (C.I.C.) has been sponsored by the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land since 1973. The Center is located opposite the Tower of David, just inside the Jaffa Gate of Jerusalem’s Old City. The purpose of the C.I.C. is to provide information about Christianity and the Holy Land – such as holy places and shrines, churches in the region, and aspects of religious and cultural life. Herodian Quarter/Wohl Museum of Archaeology Archaeologists discovered the Herodian Quarter when the Jewish Quarter was rebuilt after the Six-Day War. Located underground, it preserves the remains of six houses from the Herodian period (the reign of King Herod), excavated in 1967, and is considered one of the world's largest underground archaeological sites. In the Herodian period, this part of the city was home to wealthy priestly families. Homes were built on the western hill (today’s Mount Zion) overlooking the Temple Mount, with each home's roof at the basement level of the house above it, so every house enjoyed a clear view of the temple. There are three distinct levels, with the lowest considered to be a mansion with a possible 6,000 square ft. (557 m.) of original floor area. None of the upper stories survived the Roman torching of the city in 70 AD. Hurva Square Plaza In the center of the Jewish Quarter, surrounded by a maze of narrow, winding streets, is Hurva Square Plaza, an open area with outdoor seating, cafes, souvenir shops, and snack bars. On the west side of the square stands the Hurva Synagogue. During the War of Independence in 1948, the 19th-century synagogue was destroyed; then, in 2010, it was reconstructed in its original Ottoman style. From the upper balcony, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. You can purchase the Jewish Quarter special ticket, which includes entry to the Hurva Synagogue, the Wohl Museum of Archaeology (Herodian Quarter), the nearby Burnt House, and the Jerusalem Archaeological Park-Davidson Center. This combined ticket requires a reservation made through the Company for the Restoration and Development of the Jewish Quarter and can save you a bit of money if you intend to visit these 4 attractions. Israel Museum – Shrine of the Book – Model City of Jerusalem Founded in 1965, the Israel Museum was extensively enlarged, refurbished, and reopened in 2010. Within this sprawling 20-acre (8 hectares) compound, you will find the Archaeology Wing, the Shrine of the Book, the Model of Jerusalem in the Second Temple Period, the Wing for Jewish Art and Life, the Fine Arts Wing, the Youth Wing, and the Art Garden. The Archaeology Wing tells the story, chronologically, of the ancient Land of Israel, which was home to peoples of different cultures and faiths, from prehistory through the Ottoman Empire. The Shrine of the Book is a white-tiled dome building that houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest biblical manuscripts in the world. Researchers found these scrolls, along with rare early medieval biblical manuscripts, in Qumran in 1947. The Model of Jerusalem reconstructs 1st-century Jerusalem in the Second Temple period, showing the city's topography and architecture before the Romans destroyed it in 66 AD. The model is at a 50:1 scale and covers nearly an acre (0.4 hectares). The Jewish Art and Life Wing exhibits four complete synagogues brought from various locations around the world and reconstructed. Jeremiah’s Grotto Jeremiah's Grotto is a cave located just outside the north wall of Jerusalem, where tradition says Jeremiah wept bitter tears and composed the book of Lamentations. The grotto is under what is called Scull Hill near the Garden Tomb. Little Western Wall The Little Western Wall (also known as Small Kotel) is a small portion of the Western Wall of the Temple Mount located in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem near the Iron Gate. The Kotel is near the middle of the Western Wall of the Temple Mount, and it is the second-closest place to the Holy of Holies (outside the Temple Mount) where Jews can pray. The passage alongside the wall is a courtyard of Ribat Kurd, a hospice for Muslim pilgrims founded in 1293. Lutheran Church of the Redeemer The Church of the Redeemer was built on the ruins of the medieval St. Mary la Latine Church. The site is said to have been a hostel and hospital for Western pilgrims and served as the headquarters for the Knights of St. John, where members of the order nursed patients in the complex’s hospital. In the late 1800s, the church was reconstructed and personally dedicated by Kaiser Wilhelm. The church is located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City near the famous Church of the Holy Sepulcher. This Protestant church's square bell tower has graced the Old City's skyline since 1898. It's worth buying a ticket to access the tower for a 360-degree view over the Old City, but be prepared: it’s a winding staircase of 170 steps to the top. Mahane Yehuda Market (the Shuk) Mahane Yehuda Market, affectionately called “the Shuk”—Hebrew for “the market”—is one of Jerusalem’s liveliest places to experience everyday local life. It stretches between Jaffa Road and Agrippas Street, with covered walkways, open-air lanes, and small connecting alleys filled with shops and stalls. Established in the late 19th century during the Ottoman era, it originated as an unpaved marketplace where local Arab villagers sold produce to residents of the newer Jewish neighborhoods built outside the Old City walls. Over decades of British Mandate rule and Israeli municipal expansion, it transformed into a bustling permanent bazaar that serves as both a culinary epicenter and a cultural barometer of the city. Layout & Navigation: The market is organized primarily around two main parallel arteries—Eitz Chaim Street (the covered market alley) and Mahane Yehuda Street (the open-air lane)—crisscrossed by smaller side streets named after fruits and nuts. Daytime Commerce: By day, vendors sell fresh produce, spices, halva, freshly baked rugelach and challah, cheeses, olives, and street food staples like falafel, shawarma, and sabich. The energy peaks on Thursday evenings and Friday mornings as residents shop ahead of Shabbat. Nightlife Transformation: After the produce stalls shut their metal shutters in the evening, the market transitions into a busy nightlife district. Alongside the traditional stalls are cafés, restaurants, and bars that give the market a different character after dark. Live music is often performed, too. Old City Rooftop Walk The easiest entry point to the Chabad street rooftops is from the narrow metal steps on the right as you walk down Rehov Chabad just as it meets St. Mark’s Street. You may have to ask for directions as it’s not easy to find, but it’s worth the effort. From there, you can explore large parts of the Old City and enjoy some truly unique views. One of the most fascinating is standing over the Old City's central point, where the main north-south and east-west roads intersect. At this point, the division of the Old City of Jerusalem into its four quarters – Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian can be seen. Ramparts Walk Walk the walls of the Old City, built around 485 years ago by Suleiman the Magnificent. The Ramparts Walk offers a great overview of Jerusalem and the surrounding areas. For a small entrance fee, you can climb the Old City ramparts and circle the city from above. The walk is divided into two parts: The Northern Ramparts Walk begins at Jaffa Gate and can be exited from New Gate, Herod’s Gate, or Lions’ Gate. The Southern Ramparts Walk also begins at Jaffa Gate and can be exited from Zion Gate or Dung Gate. The walk requires a lot of stair climbing and descending. Make sure you have enough water, as once you’re on the ramparts, you can’t get off until you reach an exit. Temple Institute The Temple Institute is an organization in Israel focused on establishing the Third Temple on Mount Moriah (Temple Mount Platform) in Jerusalem. The Institute’s work touches on the temple’s history, the present day, and the divine promise of Israel’s future. As part of its ongoing effort to prepare for a future rebuilt temple, the Temple Institute has been preparing more than ninety ritual items suitable for temple use. The Institute’s activities include education, research, and development. You can visit and tour its facilities, located up the stairs southeast of the Western Wall Plaza. Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum Yad Vashem (meaning: “a monument and a name”) Holocaust History Museum is Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Yad Vashem is located on the western slope of Mount Herzl, also known as the Mount of Remembrance, and was established in 1953. It is dedicated to the memory of the Jews who died under Nazi oppression and Gentiles who selflessly aided the Jews.

The history of the gates of Jerusalem plays a key role in understanding all God has done throughout its history. See each time period with maps, videos, talks, descriptions, and more. History of the Gates of Jerusalem Photo Gallery Places of Interest History of the Gates of Jerusalem Eight gates surround Old City Jerusalem. Seven are open, and one is closed (Eastern Gate). We'll look at these gates in a clockwise (right to left) circle, starting at the Jaffa Gate. Overview The Old City of Jerusalem covers about one square mile (2.6 square kilometers). The gates are portals, or entry passages, into the city. The number of gates has varied over time. Until the Crusader Period (1099–1291), there were just four gates, one on each side of the city. Jaffa Gate (West) Damascus Gate (North) Eastern Gate (East) Zion Gate (South) From 1535 to 1542, the Ottoman ruler Suleiman the Magnificent restored and rebuilt the crumbling Old City walls to protect the city from a feared Crusader invasion. In addition to restoring many of the gates, Suleiman rebuilt two destroyed gates from previous years: Dung Gate Lions' Gate Herod's Gate Suleiman reclosed the Eastern Gate in 1541 AD. In modern times (1875-1889), two additional gates were opened into the city walls. Herod's Gate - Reopened in 1875 New Gate - 1889 Each gate has openings in the wall above it that enable the release of “weapons” such as boiling liquids, arrows, or stones aimed at the attackers below. The Bible records various uses of city gates. At the gates, people finalized business deals (Genesis 23), arranged marriages (Ruth 4), and settled disputes with witnesses (Amos 5). The king used gates to address his subjects (2 Samuel 18). Many of the gates are named after the location or destination they led toward. Several gates are shaped like an "L," designed to slow attackers trying to enter the city. Jaffa Gate The Jaffa Gate is named so because the road leading from this gate heads westward to the port city of Jaffa, or Joppa. The gate as it stands today was rebuilt in 1538 by the Ottoman sultan Suleiman the Great on the site of an earlier gate dating to the Hasmonean period around 140 BC. Facing due west, Jaffa Gate is the best-known and busiest of Jerusalem's gates. It is the only gate on the Old City's western side. Today, it is the primary vehicle entry point into the Old City and one of only two gates in Jerusalem that allow vehicle access. When the German Kaiser Wilhelm II visited the Holy Land and Jerusalem in 1898, the Ottoman authorities opened the city wall beside Jaffa Gate so the Kaiser (emperor) could enter with his vehicle escorts. They also filled in the moat that surrounded the Tower of David complex. In 1917, British General Edmund Allenby entered the Old City through Jaffa Gate and gave a speech at the nearby Tower of David. Allenby entered the city on foot to show respect for the city and to avoid comparison with the Kaiser's entry in 1898. There are many bullet holes in the face of the gate due to wars before and during the Six-Day War in 1967. New Gate It's one of Jerusalem's newer gates. It was built in 1889 with the permission of the Turkish Sultan Abdul Hamid II, who gave it the alternative name The Gate of Hammid. The New Gate is in the city's northwest corner. It is the only gate in Jerusalem that leads directly into the Christian Quarter. The Gate was built to allow easy access from the many Christian monasteries outside the walls to the Christian Quarter within. The New Gate is the simplest and least adorned of Jerusalem's gates. Damascus Gate It's located on the northern side of the Old City walls, facing due north to Shechem and beyond to Damascus. The Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent completed the Damascus Gate between 1537 and 1542. It was built over earlier gate ruins dating to Roman Emperor Hadrian, around 135 AD. It is the busiest of Jerusalem's gates, and many claim it's the most splendid. On Fridays and Saturdays, markets and bazaars make this one of the busiest parts of the city. Directly inside the gate is the Muslim Quarter, the Old City's Arab business center. During the Byzantine period (324 - 638 AD), it was known as St. Stephen's Gate (although the Lions' Gate is also known as such). Christian tradition claims Stephen was dragged out of the city through this gate and stoned on the other side of today's road, becoming the first martyr. Of the two gates of Jerusalem, also named St. Stephen's Gate, this is the most likely site of Stephen's stoning. The gate is one of the highest in the city because the northern part of the city was most vulnerable to attacks because of the terrain's slope. It was built in a double "L" shape to slow down would-be attackers. It was the beginning point of the Cardo Street, which the Roman Emperor Hadrian built around 135 AD. Part of the original gate Hadrian built can be seen to the left and below the newer gate. Ruins from previous gates can also be seen here. Hadrian's Gate was magnificent, with three arches. Arabs mainly use the gate today. Herod's Gate It bears this name because it was once believed to lead to a structure Christians erroneously identified as Herod Antipas' Palace. The Jewish and Muslim communities call the gate the Flower Gate, named for the floral designs in its architecture. It is located on the northern wall, east of the Damascus Gate. Herod's Gate leads into the Muslim Quarter, giving Muslims direct access to the Temple Mount. The gate, as it stands today, was built in 1875. This makes it the newest gate in the city. Before 1875, its main purpose was to ease traffic flow in the city's northern part. It was built with an internal L-shaped structure, like many of the other gates of Jerusalem. The Crusaders broke through the wall in this area to capture the city. Eastern Gate (Golden Gate) Perhaps the most intriguing of Jerusalem's gates, it faces east toward the rising sun. East was the direction the Jewish Temple faced and opened up to. The gate lay along Jerusalem's eastern walls, facing east toward the Kidron Valley and Mount of Olives. As the closest gate to the Temple Mount, it has taken on special significance throughout Jerusalem's history. The Golden Gate is Jerusalem's oldest gate, and scholars and archaeologists debate its exact timeline. Ancient stones at the base of the wall strongly suggest it dates back to the time of Solomon or Hezekiah (950-700 BC). It contains many biblical prophecies concerning the Messiah's entrance through it. Many of which have already been fulfilled. The Muslims established a cemetery in front of it, thinking this would stop the Messiah from entering through it in the future. Lions' Gate It is the eastern entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem. Like many of Jerusalem's gates, the Ottomans built it in 1538-39 AD along the same stretch of walls as the Golden Gate. The Lion's Gate faces the Kidron Valley and Mount of Olives. The gate was originally built with an L-shaped structure, similar to the other Ottoman gates of Jerusalem. However, builders later altered this L-shaped structure to allow vehicle access. The gate was also named St. Stephen's Gate, though the Damascus Gate is the likeliest site of Stephen's martyrdom. Four lions decorate the gate's facade, giving it its name. These lions were said to have been built by Suleiman after a dream. The legend goes that Suleiman desired to punish the Jews of Jerusalem. However, he had a dream in which lions devoured him, thus swaying his mind. Instead, he built the Lion's Gate, adding the lions to commemorate the occasion. Dung Gate Of all the gates of Jerusalem, the Dung Gate has unquestionably the most interesting name, and for obvious reasons. It is the smallest, possessing the lowest archway, and is built into the south walls. Like most of Jerusalem's other gates, Suleiman built the present gate around 1538 AD. The Dung Gate only allowed foot traffic until 1967, when the opening was enlarged. The Dung Gate gets its name because refuse and ash were escorted out of the city through it and dumped in the Hinnom Valley. It was a gate for trash from not only the Old City but also the Temple Mount. To the west of the gate, you can see part of the original Cardo Minor, built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD. It is the only gate without much defensive capability. This was because of its location. Today, it's the closest and most used gate to the Western Wall. Tanners' Gate It's not included among the main eight gates of Old City Jerusalem. It was a small side entrance a short distance west of the Dung Gate. It's directly over the Cardo Minor, built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD. It provided access to animal purchases for sacrifices at the temple. It was named the "Tanners' Gate" because of those who tanned the hides of the animals slaughtered for temple sacrifices. Zion Gate This gate faces south and is located along the southwestern walls of the Old City. It is named such because it faces Mount Zion and provides access to it. Suleiman the Magnificent rebuilt the gate over earlier ones in 1540. It is one of the gates of Jerusalem that leads into the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. Walls near the Zion Gate date to the Hasmonean and Herodian periods in Jerusalem's history. Like the previously mentioned gates of Jerusalem, the Zion Gate was built with an L-shaped internal structure. One window on each side of the gate lent it its distinctive character. It can support both foot and vehicle traffic. However, vehicles can exit through the gate but not enter. It has many bullet holes and damage from the 1947 and 1967 wars fought in this area. It was located right on the battle line between the Jordanians and Israelis. The Jordanians were inside the Old City, and the Israelis were outside. The damage was done when the Israelis were besieging the gate to enter. Other Notable Sites of Old City Jerusalem's Walls Zedekiah's Cave The entrance to Zedekiah's Cave is just beneath the Old City wall, between the Damascus and Herod Gates. It's on the north side of Old City Jerusalem, just outside its walls. Only the cave's mouth is natural. People carved the interior over several thousand years. Zedekiah’s Cave is a 5-acre (2 hectares) underground limestone quarry that stretches under five city blocks of the Muslim Quarter of Old City Jerusalem. It was carved over several thousand years and remains Jerusalem's largest quarry. Solomon very likely used this quarry to construct the temple and the Temple Mount platform he built. Herod the Great likely used the main quarry at Zedekiah's Cave as building blocks to renovate the temple and its retaining walls. Stones from the quarry may also have been used for Herod Agrippa I's building projects. The cave was also said to have been King Zedekiah's hiding place when the Babylonians besieged Jerusalem. Archaeology by the Bethesda Pools Recent discoveries outside the current walls by the Pools of Bethesda strongly suggest they were outside the city walls during the time of Christ. Curious Bend in the Eastern Wall This bend marks where the Hasmoneans added onto the Temple Mount Platform around 140 BC. Seam in the Eastern Wall This marks where King Herod added to the Temple Mount Platform around 19 BC. Southern Stairs The Southern Stairs were one of the main entrances from the south to the Temple Mount during Christ's time. Two main gate entrances led from these stairs up to the Temple Mount Platform. These gates are commonly known as the Hulda Gates. The gate for entering the Temple Mount Platform was on the right (east side), and the gate for leaving the Temple Mount was on the left (western side). King Herod had them redone and staggered them so no one could enter or depart the presence of God (signified by entering or departing the temple area) without being thoughtful in the process. They were the main access to the temple from the City of David and the city's western area, where most of the population lived. Many purification mikvehs also stood at the base of the Southern Stairs (around 48 in total). The Southern Stairs were also called “The Rabbis’ Stairs” or the “Teaching Stairs,” as rabbis taught their disciples on them. Jesus would have no doubt walked on these stairs and taught His disciples here. It’s also likely that the young Apostle Paul sat here under Gamaliel's teaching (Acts 22:3). It’s very likely that part of Pentecost took place here. The Royal Stoa was located just above us on the southern end of the Temple Mount. It was a huge covered portico that ran the full length of the Temple Mount on the south side. We don't have time to discuss all the reasons now, but the Hebrew word for house means the House, referring to the temple or a covered structure. It doesn't really refer to a home. So think of it as the area where Pentecost took place. And, of course, around here are all these Mikvehs where the 3,000 who received Christ on Pentecost would be baptized. Pilate's Palace Judgment Seat This is the most likely place where Jesus was tried and condemned to crucifixion by Pilate. It has archaeological evidence to support this event. Gate Entrance to Pilate’s Palace from Outside the Palace Steps Leading Up to the Gate Entrance to Pilate's Palace Preserved Wall of Herod the Great Preserved Stone Pavement Bema Seat – Judgment Seat Bema Seat Stone

Rising above Mount Zion with its great round church, conical roof, and tall bell tower, Dormition Abbey is one of Jerusalem’s most recognizable Christian landmarks. According to an ancient Christian tradition, this is where Mary, the mother of Jesus, completed her earthly life and “fell asleep” in death. The Dormition Abbey Photo Gallery Places of Interest The Dormition Abbey Introduction Welcome to the site of the Dormition Abbey. It's located just outside the Old City of Jerusalem, in what's today known as Mount Zion. 1. Rising above Mount Zion with its great round church, conical roof, and tall bell tower, Dormition Abbey is one of Jerusalem’s most recognizable Christian landmarks. 2. According to tradition, Mary lived here after Jesus ascended back to heaven and supported the ministry of the Apostles and the spreading of the gospel. Her home here was right beside the Upper Room. 3. Some Orthodox and Catholic churches teach that Mary died a natural death here and was laid to rest in her tomb by the Garden of Gethsemane, and after three days, her body was taken up into heaven, and her tomb was found empty. Because there were no cemeteries near the Dormition Abbey at the time of her death, they buried her by the Garden of Gethsemane in the place known today as the "Tomb of Mary." 4. Protestants and others believe Mary died a natural death and was buried at her tomb by the Garden of Gethsemane in the place known today as the "Tomb of Mary." 5. The church standing today is modern, but beneath it are the remains of Byzantine and Crusader churches that preserved Christian worship on this hill for centuries. 6. As we enter, we will see magnificent mosaics, biblical symbols, and a peaceful crypt that honors Mary—not as the source of salvation, but as the faithful servant who believed God’s Word, followed Christ through suffering, and remained with His disciples in prayer. 7. Adjacent to the Dormition Abbey is the Upper Room. 8. Let's explore this site and contemplate the events that many believe happened here. Location 1. Dormition Abbey stands on the hill now called Mount Zion, immediately south of Jerusalem’s Old City walls and only a short walk from Zion Gate. 2. It is beside the traditional complex containing the Upper Room, or Cenacle, and the traditional Tomb of David. 3. From the entrance to Zion Gate, walk south toward the prominent round church and detached bell tower. Because the abbey dominates the Mount Zion skyline, it is difficult to miss. 4. An important point about the name “Mount Zion.” In the Old Testament, Zion originally referred to the Jebusite fortress David captured on Jerusalem’s southeastern hill—now called the City of David. Later, Zion could refer to the Temple Mount or Jerusalem as a whole. In the Byzantine period, Christians began applying the name to Jerusalem's southwestern hill, where Dormition Abbey stands today. Therefore, the modern Mount Zion is not the original hill called Zion in 2 Samuel 5. What Does “Dormition” Mean? 1. The word dormition comes from the Latin dormitio, meaning “sleep” or “falling asleep.” Early Christians commonly used sleep as a respectful description of a believer’s death because they believed the body would one day be raised. 2. Dormition Abbey therefore commemorates the traditional place where Mary fell asleep in death. It is not presented as her tomb. 3. According to the Jerusalem tradition, Mary completed her earthly life on Mount Zion. The apostles carried her body from Zion across Jerusalem to the Kidron Valley near Gethsemane. The Church of the Tomb of Mary, below the Mount of Olives, commemorates her burial. 4. The New Testament does not describe Mary’s death, funeral, burial, or assumption. Its final explicit reference to her places her in Jerusalem, praying with the apostles and other believers after the ascension of Jesus: “These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus ” (Acts 1:14). 5. Dormition and Assumption The two terms are related but emphasize different aspects: Dormition emphasizes Mary’s peaceful death or “falling asleep.” Assumption refers to the Catholic belief that, at the completion of her earthly life, Mary was taken into heavenly glory, body and soul. 6. The Eastern Orthodox tradition teaches that Mary died before being glorified. 7. The Catholic definition issued by Pope Pius XII in 1950 says that Mary, “having completed the course of her earthly life,” was assumed body and soul into heaven. The wording does not formally settle the question of whether she died immediately beforehand. 8. The Bible does not tell us what happened at the end of Mary’s life, so we're not certain exactly what happened. However, this place does give us an opportunity to remember the biblical Mary—her faith, obedience, suffering, and devotion to Christ. Historical Background 1. The Apostolic Period Acts 1 places Mary with the apostles in Jerusalem following Christ’s ascension. The disciples were gathered in an upper room, praying as they waited for the Holy Spirit. Christian tradition eventually associated that upper room with this part of Mount Zion. The Bible does not explicitly say that Mary owned a house here, lived here permanently, or died here. The connection grew from the larger tradition identifying this district with the Upper Room and the early Jerusalem church. 2. The Byzantine Hagia Sion By the late fourth or early fifth century, a great Christian basilica known as Hagia Sion, meaning “Holy Zion,” stood in this area. It became one of Byzantine Jerusalem’s most important churches. Hagia Sion was associated with several biblical and traditional events, including: the Last Supper, the appearance of the risen Jesus to His disciples, Pentecost, the early Jerusalem church, and the death or Dormition of Mary. The church appears prominently on the sixth-century Madaba Map. Archaeological work indicates that an affluent Byzantine neighborhood, containing mosaic floors and even a bath complex, grew around the sanctuary. Hagia Sion was severely damaged during the Persian conquest of Jerusalem in 614 AD. It was subsequently repaired or rebuilt in various forms. Excavations reported in 2024 uncovered another portion of the Byzantine complex, including part of the church’s narthex and a freshwater channel that may have supplied an atrium or courtyard. Archaeologists can reconstruct only part of the church because much of it lies beneath existing religious buildings and cemeteries. These discoveries confirm that the modern abbey occupies part of a significant Byzantine Christian complex. 3. The Crusader Church During the twelfth century, the Crusaders built a much larger church called Santa Maria in Monte Sion—Saint Mary on Mount Zion. It incorporated the traditions of the Upper Room, the early church, Pentecost, and Mary’s Dormition. The Crusader complex was damaged following Saladin’s conquest of Jerusalem in 1187 and gradually disappeared over the following century. Portions of the medieval structures survived in or beneath the present Upper Room and Dormition Abbey complexes. 4. Modern Dormition Abbey Era For centuries, the location remained largely a field of ruins beside the Muslim shrine known as Nabi Dawud, where some believe the Tomb of David is. Local Christians continued to venerate two stones as remains from Mary’s house. When the modern church was built, they placed these stones on the exterior of the bell tower at ground level. They remain devotional objects rather than scientifically identified first-century remains. In 1898, German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm II visited Jerusalem. Through negotiations with Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, he obtained the Mount Zion property and transferred its use to the German Association of the Holy Land. The cornerstone was laid on October 7, 1900. The crypt was completed and dedicated in 1904, the first German Benedictine monks arrived in 1906, and the complete church was consecrated on April 10, 1910. The Cologne architect Heinrich Renard designed the complex. Local workers from different religious, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds helped build it. During the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Israeli forces controlled Mount Zion while Jordanian forces controlled the Old City immediately to the north. The abbey stood beside the front line and sustained serious damage. Mary's sleeping figure in the crypt lost much of its original silver and gilded covering, and damage remains visible in parts of the church. From 1948 until 1967, the bell tower overlooked the divided city. Following the Six-Day War in 1967, Zion Gate reopened, and the monks could again walk directly into the Old City. Today, the abbey is an active Benedictine monastery and a center of prayer, theological education, ecumenical encounter, and dialogue with Judaism and Islam. Architecture of Dormition Abbey 1. The church is built in a Neo-Romanesque style, combined with Byzantine-inspired mosaics and Middle Eastern architectural elements. 2. Its massive circular form, small towers, thick stone walls, rounded arches, and conical roof give it the appearance of both a church and a fortress. The exterior was partly inspired by Worms Cathedral in Germany, while the interior arrangement was influenced by Charlemagne’s Palatine Chapel at Aachen. 3. The building has two principal levels: The bright upper basilica is used for worship. The lower circular crypt commemorates Mary’s Dormition. The detached bell tower gives the complex its distinctive skyline. The abbey’s original four bells were cast in 1909. Two smaller bells were added and consecrated in April 2025, bringing the total to six. One of the new bells was dedicated especially as a prayer for peace in the Holy Land. Places of Interest 1. The exterior view. The round central church The conical metal roof The four corner turrets The detached bell tower The contrast between the abbey and the nearby medieval Upper Room complex The building looks ancient, but it was completed in 1910. Its architects deliberately gave it a Romanesque, fortress-like appearance to connect modern pilgrims with Jerusalem’s Byzantine and Crusader Christian past. Damage to the surrounding walls and Zion Gate from the 1948 fighting. 2. The upper church and circular design. The upper church feels spacious because of its round central plan. Light enters through high windows, illuminating the limestone walls, floor mosaics, side chapels, and golden apse. The circular design draws the visitor toward the center. The church’s decoration combines themes of: Creation, the Trinity, Israel’s prophets, the apostles, Mary, and Christ as the center and light of the world. 3. The great floor mosaic. Benedictine monk Mauritius Gisler designed the elaborate floor mosaic, which was completed in 1932. At its center are three intertwined rings that symbolize the Trinity. Moving outward, the design includes prophets, apostles, evangelists, the months of the year, and signs of the zodiac. The zodiac is not being used for astrology. In this setting, it represents the created order, the movement of time, and the entire universe under God’s authority. The surrounding inscription draws from Proverbs 8:23–25, describing divine wisdom existing before the depths, springs, and mountains. The mosaic proclaims that God stands at the center of creation, history, revelation, and time. Everything begins in Him and is held together by Him. 4. The apse mosaic of Mary and Jesus. Above the principal altar is a large golden mosaic of Mary holding the child Jesus. Mary is not the mosaic's ultimate center. She presents Christ, who holds an open book and identifies Himself as the light of the world. Old Testament prophets surrounding the scene point toward the promised Messiah, with special emphasis on Isaiah 7:14. Brother Radbod Commandeur created the mosaic shortly before the Second World War. The lower marble decoration was never completed because wartime bombing in Germany destroyed the intended materials. Notice that Mary’s purpose in the mosaic is to present Jesus. This reflects Mary's clearest biblical role: she receives Christ by faith, brings Him into the world, and directs attention toward Him. 5. The side chapels. The circular church contains several decorated side chapels. Their mosaics reflect different biblical themes, saints, Christian nations, and Benedictine traditions. As you walk around, notice: different artistic styles, biblical figures, National symbols, Images of Mary from different cultures, and how Christian communities from many countries contributed to one sanctuary. Christian communities in countries such as Hungary, Austria, Brazil, the United States, Ivory Coast, and others supported some chapels and altars. The international artwork illustrates how Mary is honored across many cultures. 6. The stairs into the crypt. The atmosphere changes as visitors descend. The bright upper church gives way to a lower, more intimate chamber. The crypt is not a preserved first-century room. It is a modern sacred space constructed to commemorate the tradition of Mary’s final moments. Its round shape and surrounding columns create the impression of gathering around a deathbed. Ask your group to enter quietly because pilgrims frequently pray here. 7. The sleeping figure of Mary At the center of the crypt lies a life-sized wooden and ivory representation of Mary in repose. Brother Radbod Commandeur created the figure. Mary’s face is peaceful, presenting death not as terror but as rest in God's presence. The original garment was decorated with silver and gold, but much of it disappeared during the fighting and occupation of the building in 1948. The face and hands also needed repair. The statue is not intended to be Mary’s physical tomb or actual body. It is a devotional representation of the Christian belief that she completed her earthly life in faith. 8. Christ and the six Old Testament women. Look directly above the sleeping figure. In the dome, Christ appears with open arms, welcoming His mother. He is surrounded by six women from the Old Testament: Eve: Mother of humanity; often contrasted with Mary in Christian theology. Miriam: Moses' sister, who celebrated Israel’s deliverance. Ruth: Faithful foreign woman included in the ancestry of Jesus. Esther: Queen who risked her life to save her people. Jael: A woman involved in Israel’s deliverance from an enemy. Judith: Jewish heroine from the deuterocanonical book bearing her name. Together, they represent courageous women through whom God preserved, protected, or advanced His purposes. The mosaic places Mary within the larger story of God working through faithful women. 9. Byzantine and Crusader remains. Parts of the ancient churches lie beneath or near the modern abbey. Some archaeological remains and mosaic fragments have been displayed around the complex, though access and visibility can vary. These remains verify the antiquity of Christian worship here. They do not identify a first-century bedroom or prove that Mary died at the exact spot beneath the crypt. Mary in the Bible 1. Matthew 1:18–25: Mary conceives Jesus through the Holy Spirit; Joseph obediently receives her as his wife. 2. Luke 1:26–38: Gabriel announces that Mary will give birth to the Messiah. Mary submits herself to God’s will. 3. Luke 1:39–45: Mary visits Elizabeth, who blesses her for believing God’s promise. 4. Luke 1:46–55: Mary’s Magnificat praises God as Savior and celebrates His mercy and faithfulness. 5. Luke 2:1–20: Mary gives birth to Jesus in Bethlehem and reflects on the shepherds’ testimony. 6. Luke 2:19: Mary treasures and ponders the events surrounding Jesus’ birth. 7. Luke 2:22–35: Simeon announces that Jesus will bring salvation but warns Mary that a sword will pierce her soul. 8. Luke 2:41–52: Mary and Joseph find the twelve-year-old Jesus in the Temple. Mary continues pondering these events. 9. John 2:1–11: At Cana, Mary brings the need to Jesus and tells the servants to do whatever He says. 10. Matthew 12:46–50: Jesus teaches that a spiritual relationship with Him is based on doing the Father’s will. 11. Luke 11:27–28: Jesus emphasizes that true blessedness belongs to those who hear and obey God’s Word. 12. John 19:25–27: Mary remains near the cross while Jesus entrusts her care to the beloved disciple. 13. Acts 1:12–14: Mary joins the apostles and other believers in united prayer before Pentecost. 14. Galatians 4:4–5: God sent His Son, born of a woman, to redeem those under the Law. Faith Lesson from the Dormition Abbey 1. Dormition Abbey honors Mary’s final rest, but the greatest lesson from Mary’s biblical life is not how she died. It is how she lived. What about us? Are we living for Christ as Mary did? 2. Mary listened when God spoke: “May it be done to me according to your word” ( Luke 1:38). What about us? Are we at peace with God's will in our lives, even if we don't fully understand or agree with it? 3. She praised God as her Savior: “My soul exalts the Lord , and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior ” (Luke 1:46–47). What about us? Do we exalt God and rejoice in Him as our Savior? 4. She pondered God’s work when she did not fully understand it: “Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart ” (Luke 2:19). What about us? Do we glorify God even though we don't understand all He is doing? 5. She remained faithful during suffering. Simeon had warned her that a sword would pierce her soul, and years later she stood near the cross as her Son was crucified. What about us? Are we faithful to God amid our sufferings and trials? 6. She directed people toward Jesus: “Whatever He says to you, do it ” (John 2:5). What about us? Do we direct people to Jesus and encourage them to obey and love Him? 7. And after Christ’s resurrection and ascension, she joined the other believers in prayer: “These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer” (Acts 1:14). What about us? Have we joined a Bible-believing church that honors God in Scripture and prayer?

See every Bible Site in Israel In-depth! Everything about Israel: Maps, Videos, Books about Israel, Tours, Holy Land Trips to Israel, Footsteps of Jesus, Bible Teachings, Jerusalem, Galilee, Samaria, Bethlehem, Masada, Dead Sea, Capernaum, Negev, Nazareth, Experience Israel Online. Christian Tour Trips to Israel. Exodus Route, Red Sea Crossing, Mount Sinai in Arabia, Noah's Ark, Temple Mount, Temple, City of David, Church of Holy Sepulchre, Church of Nativity, Church of Annunciation, Jordan Home Dear Friend, Perhaps you’d love to visit the Holy Land but can’t, or maybe you have the privilege of going and want to learn more about the places you'll visit. If either is the case, then this website is for you! See the Bible come to life as you walk in the footsteps of Jesus and see the places where the events of the Bible took place. This website enables you to experience the Holy Land online by watching videos and teachings from the Land of the Bible. You’ll discover a new dimension in understanding the Bible, and it will go from black and white to 3D, living color! Holy Land Experience Trip s Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Would you like to have a life-changing and never-to-be-forgotten experience? If so, it is our joy to invite you to join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible, where you will find a new dimension in understanding the Bible and the life of Jesus. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, walked on the water, calmed the sea, and where He was crucified and raised from the dead. We will immerse ourselves in the Land of the Bible and experience it to the depths of our souls. You will never be the same or read your Bible the same after a trip like this. If it's Bible you want, then this trip is for you. At each site, we will give biblical and historical teaching along with a faith lesson. Therefore, this trip is designed to provide an in-depth study and perspective from the Scriptures of the events and places of the Bible. Our goal is to offer a highly biblical, non-touristy, and inspirational trip to the Land of the Bible. Our trips also include sites that are off the beaten path. ____________ "An absolutely amazing trip with a guy who knows his Bible and can relate it to you in-country. I've gone to Israel with this dear friend of mine twice. It's an 11 out of a 10 trip!" Dan Reeves "I've looked and looked, but I just haven't found any groups with the same approach I got spoiled by when we went with you to Israel. Also, they're not really Bible-teaching tours. Your teaching tour is still head and shoulders above anything else, so if it works out, I'd like to go with you again next year." Todd Yaney Holy Land Experience Trip October 16 ~ November 1, 2026 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5 ,450 USD Click for Trip Details This trip was just completed successfully. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Holy Land Experience Trip November 6 ~ 22, 2026 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5,450 USD Click for Trip Details A few spots still available. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Holy Land Experience Trip April 30 ~ May 16, 2027 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5 ,850 USD Click for Trip Details This trip is currently full. Please consider one of our next trips or to be placed on the waiting list. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Holy Land Experience Trip October 22 ~ November 7, 2027 (Includes travel to and from Israel) 17-Day Trip $5 ,950 USD Click for Trip Details Spots still available. Maximum group size 40. The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart at any time. Books by HolyLandSite.com Travel Guide Book 664 Pages Bible Companion Book 654 Pages Jerusalem & Central Israel Book 402 Pages Sea of Galilee & Northern Israel Book 222 Pages Negev & Southern Israel Book 222 Pages See some of our most popular videos below!

Tour and learn all about Bethany. It was the hometown of Jesus’ good friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. It's the place where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead and the home of Simon, the leper. It was the place where Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with perfume and where Jesus stayed overnight during His final week of earthly ministry, between His triumphal entry and His crucifixion. Bethany ~ Tomb of Lazarus Photo Gallery Places of Interest Bethany ~ Tomb of Lazarus Introduction Welcome to Bethany. Many events from the Bible took place here. Here are some of the highlights. 1. It's where Mary, Martha, and Lazarus lived. 2. Jesus taught Martha, Mary's sister, a major lesson about choosing priorities at Bethany . 3. Bethany is where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. 4. Bethany was also where Simon the Leper lived, and an unnamed woman anointed the head of Jesus with expensive perfume. 5. Mary anointed Jesus' feet with expensive perfume in Bethany. This most likely happened in the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. 6. Jesus cursed a fig tree on His way to Bethany from the temple where He had been ministering. 7. The Triumphal Entry began close to Bethany. 8. When in Jerusalem, Jesus regularly stayed in Bethany. Most likely at the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. 9. The Gospel of Luke states that Jesus ascended back to heaven not far from here, as this area is part of the Mount of Olives. Location 1. Today, Bethany is located in the modern town of Al-Eizariya or Al-Azariya (Arabic for the place of Lazarus). 2. In 2002, the Israeli government built a separation wall between Jerusalem and Al-Azariya to control terrorism from East Jerusalem. Before this date, biblical Bethany was just a short drive or walk from the Mount of Olives. Today, you must go around this wall, which takes about one-half hour by car. 3. It was a village in Judea about two miles (3.2 km.) southeast of Jerusalem, which the Bible confirms: "Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away " (John 11:18). 4. It was situated on the well-traveled road to Jericho. 5. Some believe Bethany was more like a modern subdivision of Jerusalem rather than an entire town. 6. In biblical times, the edges of Bethany reached the Mount of Olives and bordered Bethphage, a suburb of Jerusalem. 7. Some translate the name Bethany to mean “house of figs,” as there are many fig trees and palms in the area. On the other hand, others translate it as “house of misery,” believing that Bethany was a designated place for those with contagious diseases. Historical Background 1. Archaeological excavations between 1949 and 1953, directed by Sylvester J. Saller of the Franciscans, have unearthed evidence of Christian places of worship erected near the tomb. 2. Six layers of archaeology confirm this is the authentic site of the tomb of Lazarus and Bethany. Rock-cut tombs and the remains of houses, wine presses, cisterns, and silos were also discovered. 3. Pottery finds dating to the Persian and Hellenistic periods also provide evidence of this site's authenticity. 4. O ngoing excavations continue around the area of the House of Martha and Mary. Layers of Archaeology 1. Early Christians Venerated This Site Before any formal churches were built here, early Christians venerated this site as it was here Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, which caused many Jews and religious leaders to believe in Jesus. Virtually no churches were built in the Roman Empire from the time of Christ until 314 AD, when Constantine made Christianity legal. Nonetheless, Christians still venerated and protected the holy sites, including this one. Archeologists have established that the area was used as a cemetery in the 1st century AD, and tombs from this period were found a short distance north of the church. 2. First Church - 350 AD The Byzantines built the first church by Lazarus's tomb. Several eyewitnesses attest to its existence and saw it personally. Among them were the historians Eusebius of Caesarea, the Pilgrim of Bordeaux, and Jerome, who lived in Bethlehem. The first church measured 35 meters long and 19 meters wide. It consisted of a hall with three naves divided by columns and an atrium connecting it to the tomb of Lazarus. The first church had beautiful mosaics, many of which remain today. It was likely damaged by earthquakes in 447 and 551 AD. 3. Second Church - 650 AD A second church was built between 600 and 700 AD and survived intact until the Crusader era. The second church followed the same general plan as the first, but the apse was situated about 13 meters (43 ft) to the east to create a larger atrium. A chapel was built on the south side of the atrium. The pilgrim Arculf, who wrote in 680 AD about a large basilica and monastery, is an eyewitness to this building. 4. Third Church & Monastery - 1138 AD In 1138, King Fulk and Queen Melisende obtained the village of Bethany from the Latin patriarch in exchange for land near Hebron. The queen built a large Benedictine monster (convent) south of the tomb and church. Melisende had extensive repairs made to the 6th-century Byzantine church, which remained the focal point of pilgrimages. These buildings were destroyed in 1187 by the Muslims. 5. Fourth Church - 1200 AD Shortly after renovating the third church, Queen Melisende built a new church with three apses directly over the tomb of Lazarus. This new church was dedicated to Lazarus, and the older church was reconsecrated to Mary and Martha. Melisende also fortified the complex with a tower. 6. Mosque of Al-Uzair - 1384 By 1384, a simple mosque had been built on the site of the existing structures. In the 16th century, the Ottomans built the larger al-Uzair Mosque to serve the town's (now Muslim) inhabitants. They named it to honor the town's patron saint, Lazarus of Bethany. The construction utilized the surviving barrel vaulting of the former west church. Its courtyard is in the Byzantine church atrium. For 100 years after the mosque was constructed, Christians were invited to worship in it, but European church authorities frowned upon the practice, preferring Christians to remain separate. As access to the tomb became more difficult, the Franciscans were eventually permitted (between 1566 and 1575) to cut a new entrance into the tomb on the north side. At some point, the original entrance from the mosque was blocked. This entrance can still be seen in the east wall of the church's antechamber. Modern Church - 1955 In 1863, the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land gained title to a plot of ground close to the tomb of Lazarus. Other areas were acquired later. Between 1952 and 1955, a modern church dedicated to Lazarus was built on this property over the remnants of the former Byzantine and Crusader churches. This church's courtyard stands over the older churches' west end. Parts of the original mosaic floor are still visible here. The west wall of the courtyard contains the west facade of the 6th-century basilica and its three doorways. About twenty-five meters up a hill northwest of the church is the modern entrance to the Tomb of Lazarus. Greek Orthodox Church - 1965 At this time, a modern Greek Orthodox church was built just west of the Tomb. Its construction incorporates the north wall of the former medieval Benedictine chapel. Nearby the church are ruins belonging to the Orthodox Patriarchate, which are traditionally identified either as the House of Simon the Leper or Lazarus. Places of Interest 1. Tomb of Lazarus The Crusaders made major changes to the tomb. Originally, it was a three-bench tomb, with space for three bodies to be laid along the walls. Then, when the Crusaders built their church above it, they feared the weight of the building might cause the tomb to collapse. To strengthen it, they covered the inside walls with stonework for support. Because of that, the original burial benches are still there, but they are now hidden behind the added stone. The Crusaders also left a few small niches in the walls, likely for candles to light the tomb. The bench where Lazarus was probably laid was most likely the one just to the right of the crawl space as you enter. 2. House of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus 3. House of Simon the Leper 4. Ancient churches built over the Tomb of Lazarus 5. Bethany 6. Bethphage 7. Mt. of Olives 8. Old City Jerusalem 9. Old Jericho to Jerusalem Road Bethany I n the Bible 1. Bethany was the place where Jesus taught a major lesson to Martha, the sister of Mary. Luke 10:38-42: Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village [Bethany]; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. 39 And she had a sister called Mary , who was also seated at the Lord’s feet, and was listening to His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do the serving by myself? Then tell her to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; 42 but only one thing is necessary; for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” 2. Bethany is where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. John 11:1-5: Now a certain man was sick: Lazarus of Bethany , the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 And it was the Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. 3 So the sisters sent word to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.” 4 But when Jesus heard this, He said, “This sickness is not meant for death, but is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it.” 5 (Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister, and Lazarus.) John 11:17-27: So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about fifteen stadia away [2 miles, 3.2 km.]; 19 and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary, to console them about their brother. 20 So then Martha, when she heard that Jesus was coming, went to meet Him, but Mary stayed in the house. 21 Martha then said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 Even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise from the dead.” 24 Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to Him, “Yes, Lord; I have come to believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, and He who comes into the world.” John 11:38-44: So Jesus, again being deeply moved within, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. 39 Jesus said, “Remove the stone.” Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” 41 So they removed the stone. And Jesus raised His eyes, and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. 42 But I knew that You always hear Me; nevertheless, because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.” 43 And when He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out !” 44 Out came the man who had died, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.” 3. Bethany is where Mary anointed the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume. This event most likely happened in the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. John 12:1-3: Therefore, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was , whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 So they made Him a dinner there, and Martha was serving; and Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him. 3 Mary then took a pound of very expensive perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4. Bethany is also where Simon the Leper lived, whom it appears Jesus had healed. In Simon's home, a woman anointed Jesus' head with expensive perfume. Mark 14:3-9: While He was in Bethany at the home of Simon the Leper , He was reclining at the table, and a woman came with an alabaster vial of very expensive perfume of pure nard. She broke the vial and poured the perfume over His head. 4 But there were some indignantly remarking to one another, “Why has this perfume been wasted? 5 For this perfume could have been sold for over three hundred denarii, and the money given to the poor.” And they were scolding her. 6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone! Why are you bothering her? She has done a good deed for Me. 7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good to them; but you do not always have Me. 8 She has done what she could; she has anointed My body beforehand for the burial. 9 Truly I say to you, wherever the gospel is preached in the entire world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.” 5. Jesus cursed a fig tree on His way to Bethany from the temple where He had been ministering. Matthew 21:17-22: And He left them and went out of the city to Bethany , and spent the night there. 18 Now in the early morning, when He was returning to the city, He became hungry. 19 And seeing a lone fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it except leaves alone; and He said to it, “No longer shall there ever be any fruit from you.” And at once the fig tree withered. 20 Seeing this, the disciples were amazed and asked, “How did the fig tree wither all at once?” 21 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen. 22 And whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive it all.” 6. The Triumphal Entry began close to Bethany. Luke 19:29: When He approached Bethphage and Bethany , near the mountain that is called Olivet, He sent two of the disciples, 30 saying, “Go into the village ahead of you; there, as you enter, you will find a colt tied, on which no one yet has ever sat; untie it and bring it here. 31 And if anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ you shall say this: ‘The Lord has need of it.’” 32 So those who were sent left and found it just as He had told them. 33 And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?” 34 They said, “The Lord has need of it.” 35 And they brought it to Jesus, and they threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 Now as He was going, they were spreading their cloaks on the road. 37 And as soon as He was approaching, near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, 38 shouting: “Blessed is the King, the One who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” 7. When in Jerusalem, Jesus regularly stayed in Bethany. Most likely at the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mark 11:11: And Jesus entered Jerusalem and came into the temple area; and after looking around at everything, He left for Bethany with the twelve, since it was already late. 8. While Acts 1:9-12 says Jesus ascended back to heaven from the Mount of Olives, Luke states it happened around Bethany. There is no contradiction, as Bethany was considered part of the Mount of Olives. Luke 24:50-53: And He led them out as far as Bethany , and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. 51 While He was blessing them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven. 52 And they, after worshiping Him, returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53 and were continually in the temple praising God. Faith Lesson from Bethany 1. Martha was a busy person who worked hard but neglected spiritual devotion and eyes to see what was most important in life. What about us? Are we so busy that we neglect our devotion to Christ? 2. In Bethany, Christ raised Lazarus from the dead and claimed to be the resurrection and the life for those who believe in Him. What about us? Are we right with the Lord and have the hope that we will be resurrected to live with a new, glorified body with Christ for eternity in heaven? 3. Mary showed her love and devotion to Jesus by anointing Him with very expensive ointment and wiping His feet with her hair. What about us? How do we show our love and devotion to Jesus? 4. Jesus cursed a fig tree, and it died. He told us that if we have faith and don't doubt, we can move mountains. What about us? Do we have faith and believe God can do great things when we serve and trust Him? In what areas of my life do I lack faith and have fear?

Learn about Ekron and the 5 cities of the Philistines. What all happened in Ashdod? What is its history? Who were the Philistines, where did they come from, and where did they live? They are mentioned in many places in the Old Testament and were the enemies of the Israelites. The Other Cities Were: Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gaza, and Gath. Biblical Ekron Photo Gallery Places of Interest Ekron Location 1. Ekron (Tel Miqne) is located east of Ashdod and the Mediterranean Sea about 13 miles (20 km.) Historical Background 1. In archeological terms, Tel Ekron (Tel Miqne-Ekron) is significant because it is one of Israel's largest Iron Age sites. 2. More than 100 oil presses were found here, as well as the Ekron Inscription, which clearly identifies the site as Philistine, Ekron. 3. Just to the west of Tel Ekron is Kibbutz Revadim, where a Museum of the History of Philistine Culture shows a reconstructed Philistine street with many artifacts. Places of Interest 1. Tel Ekron 2. Kibbutz Revadim Philistine Street ~ Archaeological items from Tel Ekron have been brought here and preserved. Ekron in the Bible 1. Joshua and the Israelites failed to conquer Ekron in the conquest of the Promised Land as found in Joshua 13:3. 2. It was allotted to Judah in the division of the land and then to the tribe of Dan as found in Joshua chapters 15-19. 3. However, the tribe of Dan failed to conquer the area and moved to the northern part of Israel. Judah wound up conquering Ekron and inhabiting it as found in Judges 1:18. 4. Ekron was one of the Philistine cities where the Ark of the Covenant resided before being returned to the Israelites at Beth Shemesh. 1 Samuel 5:10: So they sent the ark of God to Ekron. And as the ark of God came to Ekron , the Ekronites cried out, saying, “They have brought the ark of the God of Israel to us, to kill us and our people!” 1 Samuel 6:13-16: Now the people of Beth-shemesh were gathering in their wheat harvest in the valley, and they raised their eyes and saw the ark, and rejoiced at seeing it. 14 And the cart came into the field of Joshua the Beth-shemite and stopped there where there was a large stone; and they split the wood of the cart and offered the cows as a burnt offering to the Lord. 15 And the Levites took down the ark of the Lord and the saddlebag that was with it, in which were the articles of gold, and put them on the large stone; and the men of Beth-shemesh offered burnt offerings and sacrificed sacrifices that day to the Lord. 16 When the five governors of the Philistines saw it, they returned to Ekron that day. 5. After David killed Goliath in the Valley of Elah, the Israelites pursued and defeated the Philistines all the way to Ekron. 1 Samuel 17:52: Then the men of Israel and Judah rose up and shouted, and they pursued the Philistines as far as the valley, and to the gates of Ekron . And the Philistine dead lay along the way to Shaaraim, even to Gath and Ekron . 6. Ekron is included, among other cities, in pronouncements of judgment by the prophets Amos 1:8, Jeremiah 25:20, Zephaniah 2:4, and Zechariah 9:5–7. Faith Lesson from Ekron 1. The Israelites failed to conquer Ekron and the surrounding cities of the Philistines. For some reason, they lacked the faith, willpower, and trust in God to fulfill His command to conquer the inhabitants of the Promised Land. Do we fail to trust in God and conquer the tasks God calls us to do? 2. However, David, as a young man, and later as the king of Israel, would defeat the Philistines and fulfill God's original command to subdue and conquer all of the Promised Land. Do we exercise faith as David did and step out and do mighty things for the Lord? 3. From Ekron the Ark of the Covenant was returned to the Israelites at Beth Shemesh. It was done in a miraculous way by cows carrying the Ark on a wagon arriving at Beth Shemesh all by themselves. Miracles are one way God reveals Himself to skeptical and unbelieving people. Do we share miracles God has done in our lives with others?

Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes, Church of the Primacy of Peter. Place Jesus Restored Peter and met with the disciples after His resurrection. Sites of interest include: Church of the Multiplication, Church of the Primacy of St. Peter, beach close-by to the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter, Heart-shaped stones by the beach, Rock Monument with carved Cross and verse above Tabgha, Mount of Beatitudes Tabgha: Church of the Primacy of St. Peter Photo Gallery Places of Interest Church of the Primacy of St. Peter Restoration of Peter Introduction 1. Welcome to the place where the risen Jesus met with seven of His disciples and prepared them a breakfast of fish and bread after they had fished all night. 2. It was here that Jesus restored Peter to fellowship with Him and entrusted him to feed His sheep. 3. We'll see the very place, according to tradition, where Jesus and His seven disciples met. 4. By the seashore, we'll reflect on the miraculous catch of fish Christ did at the original calling of the disciples, and when He met some of them after His resurrection. We'll also reflect on and learn valuable lessons from Peter's restoration. Location 1. Tabgha is located on the northwest side of the Sea of Galilee. 2. There are seven springs found in this area, which provide one of the best places for fishing around the sea. 3. Some of the springs provided warm sulfuric water that caused the fish to gather here. It was also used for health purposes, and many came from far away to find healing and relief in its waters. 4. Waters from these springs were also taken to nearby fields and villages via canals. Historical Background 1. The first church was built here around 350 AD by the Byzantines. 2. At the base of the current church, opposite the main altar, the foundations of the first church are visible. 3. Around 808 AD, the church was referred to as the Place of the Coals. This name refers to the incident in which Jesus prepared a meal for the apostles, building a charcoal fire on which to cook the fish. 4. Also first mentioned in the year 808 AD are the "Twelve Thrones", a series of heart-shaped stones, which were placed along the shore to commemorate the Twelve Apostles. 5. The church survived longer than any other in the area, finally being destroyed in 1263 AD. 6. The church today was built in 1933 and incorporated parts of an earlier 4th-century church. Places of Interest 1. Church of the Primacy of St. Peter. 2. Floor Mosaics As visitors step inside the church, they are greeted by a stunning mosaic display adorning the floor. These intricate designs showcase the region's diverse flora and fauna in vibrant colors, creating an atmosphere of reverence and beauty. The most famous mosaic, located near the altar, depicts a basket of loaves flanked by two fish, serving as a powerful symbol of the miracle the church commemorates. 3. Mensa Christi (Table of Christ) The church features a limestone rock formation in front of the present altar, which is venerated as a "Mensa Christi," meaning "table of Christ" in Latin. According to tradition, this is the spot where Jesus is said to have laid out a breakfast of bread and fish for the Apostles. 4. Statue of Jesus and Peter Inscription: "Feed My sheep." 5. Beach close to the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter. 6. Stones by the Beach Just outside the church, six heart-shaped stones are placed along the shore. Because these stones serve no structural purpose in their current location on the beach, archaeologists and historians believe they were salvaged from the ruins of older buildings (such as abandoned synagogues) and deliberately placed on the shoreline by early Christians sometime between the 5th and 9th centuries AD. Even though there are only 6 stones, they are traditionally known as the "Twelve Thrones" and were placed there to commemorate the Twelve Apostles. 7. Outside the church, by the beach, there are some stairs cut into this rock by the church. It’s believed that someone carved these steps in the second or third centuries, which is why in the year 381 AD, Egeria visited this area and reported that, “next to the Church of the Loaves and Fishes, which is nearby, there are some stone steps where the Lord stood." 8. Ancient Boat Docks The beach is flanked by two ancient piers constructed from black basalt boulders. That proves this was a fishing spot during the time of Jesus, and that fishermen would embark and disembark from their boats on these piers. Restoration of Peter 1. The disciples had returned to their home towns on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee after the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ in Jerusalem. 2. They undoubtedly felt very depressed, lonely, and as if their whole world had come to an end. 3. Their beloved Master had been crucified, and they were left wondering what would happen now. 4. They probably called into question how they had spent their past 3 ½ years following Christ. 5. Peter especially felt depressed and spiritually sick. He had denied Christ his Lord and Master three times after he had just moments earlier said he would follow Him even to death. Restoration of Peter in the Bible 1. After Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, the disciples went back to fishing like old times. John 21:1–3: Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberius. It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee [James and John], and two other disciples were together [7 disciples in all]. 3 "I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 2. Jesus appears to the disciples. John 21:4–14: Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. 5 He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?" "No," they answered. 6 He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. 7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread [in John 18:18 Peter denied Christ by a charcoal fire]. 10 Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught." 11 Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153 [according to Hebrew alphabetics, this number meant “I Am God”], but even with so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish [same food as the feeding of the 5,000]. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead. 3. Jesus restores Peter. John 21:15–17: When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." 16 Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep." 17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.” 4. This encounter was like the first time Christ called Peter to be His disciple. Luke 5:1–11: On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch." 5 And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word, I will let down the nets." 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish , and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him. Faith Lesson 1. Peter’s original calling to be a disciple and his restoration follow the same miracle pattern. Christ did this on purpose because He wanted Peter to remember his roots and beginning. What about us? Do we need to be reminded of our roots and calling today? 2. Christ was the one who reached out to Peter and took the initiative to restore him. What about us? Do we realize that it is Jesus who constantly pursues us and draws us back to Him? 3. Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him 3 times because Peter denied Him 3 times. What about us? Have we drifted away from Jesus and need to be reminded of some important event in our lives? 4. God realizes we are human and make mistakes. 5. The main thing God looks for in restoration is a spirit of repentance and a contrite, humble heart. What about us? Do we need restoration today, and are we willing to have a contrite and humble heart in doing so? 6. Do I understand that God is more interested in my restoration with Him than I probably am?

St. George’s Monastery is a Greek Orthodox cliff-hanging complex carved into a sheer rock wall in the Judaean Desert that overlooks an unexpectedly lush garden with olive and cypress trees. It’s one of the most striking sights in the Holy Land. It's nearby to Jericho and was located on the road leading from Jericho to Jerusalem. It was on this road that the story of the Good Samaritan takes place as told by Jesus. Inn of the Good Samaritan commemorates this event. St. George's Monastery Photo Gallery Places of Interest St. George’s Monastery Location 1. St. George’s Monastery is located about 2.5 miles (4 km.) west of Jericho in a deep and breathtaking gorge called “Wadi Qelt.” 2. It’s located on the ancient road connecting the Jordan Valley to Jerusalem and beyond. Jesus would have used this well-traveled road regularly. 3. The story of the Good Samaritan took place on this road. For more on this story and event, please see the Inn of the Good Samaritan. Historical Background 1. St. George’s Monastery is a Greek Orthodox cliff-hanging complex carved into a sheer rock wall in the Judaean Desert and is one of the most breathtaking sights in the Holy Land. 2. Starting in the 4th century, monks began to live in the many caves of Wadi Qelt. 3. The monastery of St. George was founded in the 5th century by John of Thebes, an Egyptian. He gathered a small band of five Syrian hermits who had settled around the cave where they believed the prophet Elijah was fed by ravens (1 Kings 17:1–7). 4. Tradition also holds that Elijah visited the cave by the monastery while traveling to the Sinai Peninsula as he fled the threats of Jezebel after he had killed the false prophets of Baal and Asherah (1 Kings 19:1–3). 5. However, it was named after its most famous monk, St George of Koziba, who came as a teenager from Cyprus in the 6th century to follow the ascetic life in the Holy Land after his parents died. 6. The monastery was destroyed in 614 AD by the Persians and was more or less abandoned after the Persians swept through the valley and massacred the fourteen monks who dwelt there. The bones and skulls of the martyred monks can still be seen today in the monastery chapel. 7. The Crusaders made some attempts at restoration of the monastery in 1179. However, it was abandoned after Muslims regained control of the Holy Land and drove out the Crusaders. 8. In 1878, a Greek monk, Kalinikos, settled here and restored the monastery, finishing it in 1901. History of Christian Monasticism 1. Today, in Israel, there are 33 functioning monasteries. During the 4th century, there were hundreds of monasteries built as almost every holy site had a monastery on it. 2. Because Christianity was prohibited in the Roman Empire before Constantine embraced Christianity, no monasteries or churches were permitted until 313 AD. After this point, monasteries sprung up everywhere throughout the empire. 3. The idea of a monastic lifestyle was taken from both the Old and New Testaments. The Nazarite Vow The prophets (Elijah being fed by ravens in the desert). John the Baptist living in the desert. Christ fasting for 40 days in the desert. 4. There were also the Essenes who lived in the desert by the Dead Sea at Qumran during the time of John the Baptist and Jesus. 5. Monasticism took on different forms and meanings throughout its history. Some lived like hermits all alone. Later, many lived in monasteries in communal groups. They withdrew from society to live a separated life fully devoted to seeking the Lord and becoming godly. Over the years, monasticism changed so that many monasteries prepared men and women for a life of service to God. They would live in the monastery for a few years then go out to serve the Lord. Monasteries were not always Catholic. There were many monasteries before Catholicism became what it is today, and there were different kinds of monasteries from different religious orientations, i.e., Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, Armenian, etc. 6. In general, monasticism is a religious way of life wherein a person denounces worldly pursuits and fully devotes themselves to seeking the Lord through religious vows and disciplines. 7. The word monk, or monastery, originates from Greek (monos) and means to “dwell alone.” 8. In different periods of monasticism, some chose lives of celibacy as well. Places of Interest 1. St. George’s Monastery It is quite a hike down into the gorge to see the monastery, so only those in good physical shape should attempt it. It can also be extremely hot through the Spring to Fall seasons as well. 2. Lookout – Just to the west of the parking area is a trail that leads to a beautiful lookout area over the monastery for those just wanting to see the site without hiking down to it. 3. Monastery Upper Level – Elijah’s Cave 4. Monastery Middle Level – Main Church 5. Monastery Lower Level – Storehouses and vault where the remains of the early monks are kept. 6. Stairs from the inner court of the monastery lead to the cave-church of St. Elijah. From this cave, a narrow tunnel provides an escape route to the top of the mountain. 7. Wadi Qelt – Fertile ravine where small-scale farming and irrigation takes place. 8. Caves where monks lived. 9. Small Chapel St. George’s Monastery In the Bible 1. It seems very unlikely that St. George’s Monastery is the location where God supernaturally fed Elijah by ravens. The Bible says the place was east of the Jordan River, and St. George’s Monastery is west of the Jordan River. 1 Kings 17:1–7: Now Elijah the Tishbite, of Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand, there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word.” 2 And the word of the Lord came to him: 3 “Depart from here and turn eastward and hide yourself by the brook Cherith, which is east of the Jordan . 4 You shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there.” 5 So he went and did according to the word of the Lord. He went and lived by the brook Cherith that is east of the Jordan . 6 And the ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook. 7 And after a while the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land. 2. It is possible Elijah stayed in the cave at St. George’s Monastery when he fled after being threatened by Jezebel, but it’s not certain. 1 Kings 19:3: Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. Faith Lesson from St. George’s Monastery 1. We can certainly admire those who took God so seriously that they often sold their possessions and chose a life of solitude and strict discipline to seek the Lord. Do we love the Lord to such a degree we are willing to give up whatever God might ask us so we can be more devoted followers of Him? 2. Do we set time aside to remove the distractions of life and just seek God? 3. While it’s good to set time apart for solitude and seeking the Lord, we are also called to be in the world but not of it. Are we doing a good job of being in the world but not a part of its values and philosophies? 4. Are we disciplined in our Christian lives? 5. While monasticism has many admirable qualities, it does have some unbiblical concepts. For some, it was a withdrawal and escape from society. Like Christ, we are called to influence society and be lights to the world. Are we influencing those around us with the light of God’s Word and His love? And are we fulfilling the Great Commission in one way or another? 6. Are we part of a Bible-believing church community where we can grow and serve others?

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. Faith Lesson 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?

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?