Sepphoris, Tsipori, Zippori: Did Jesus Work Here? Thousands of Jews Crucified, Capitol of Galilee @HolyLandSite

HolyLandSite Could it be that Jesus worked here as a young man? Because Nazareth was so close to Sepphoris, and because Jesus was a Tekton (Greek for a construction worker of various types), Jesus and His earthy father, Joseph, undoubtedly worked here. Sepphoris was also the capital of the Galilee area during the time of Christ.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:53 - Location of Sepphoris: Place Jesus Worked
2:44 - Historical Background
7:11 - Sepphoris & the Bible
13:52 - Faith Lesson
16:55 - Outro

During the time of Jesus, because of a Jewish revolt, thousands of Jews were crucified here. Jesus likely used this example of what it meant to take up your cross and follow Him.

Location
1. Sepphoris is located about 4 miles (6 km.) northwest of Nazareth, about 14 miles (23 km.) from the Mediterranean Sea, and about 15 miles (25 km.) from the Sea of Galilee.
2. Because of its close proximity to Nazareth, it was easily accessible by Jesus and His father, Joseph.

Historical Background
1. The city started to grow during the 2nd Century BC under Greek rule.
2. Later, under Roman rule during the time of Christ, Herod Antipas (the son of Herod the Great) invested in it significantly and made it “the ornament of Galilee.” It was a sophisticated Roman city with all the luxuries of modern life at that time. It included a network of colonnaded paved streets, markets, residential houses, public buildings, bathhouses, a theater, and a synagogue.
3. Sepphoris rose to recognized status during the century before Christ because it was located right on one of the main trade routes linking Africa with Europe and Asia called "The Via Maris" (way of the sea). Therefore, it was a wealthy city.
4. It was also a military city guarded well by Roman troops.
5. Sepphoris was the capital of the Galilee area during the time of Christ.
6. In order to rebuild the city, Herod Antipas used a massive workforce.
7. Because Nazareth was so close to Sepphoris, and because Jesus was a Tekton (Greek for a construction worker of various types), Jesus and His father undoubtedly worked here.
8. So, in part, it’s also where Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man (Luke 2:52).
9. Because it was mainly a Jewish city, it was given its Hebrew name, Zippori, because it sits on a hilltop like a bird (Zippor).
10. Sepphoris is also known as the Mosaic City, as some of the best mosaics in all of Israel are found here. More than 40 mosaic floors reveal the bustling life of a Roman city and the luxury it afforded.
11. After Herod’s death in 4 BC, the Roman army put down a rebellion of Jewish rebels led by a man named Judas. These rebels numbering several thousand were killed; however, according to Josephus, 2,000 of them were kept alive to be crucified on its streets and close-by roads in the area. These mass crucifixions were carried out to instill fear in others who might consider rebelling against Roman rule.
12. Sepphoris did not join the Jewish rebellion in 66-70 AD and was therefore spared destruction.
13. After the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, Sepphoris became a center of Jewish learning and seat of the Sanhedrin supreme court. The Mishnah, the first authoritative collection of Jewish oral law, was compiled here.
14. Sepphoris witnessed Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman rule in the centuries following.

Places of Interest
1. Park Entrance
2. Water source
3. Decumanus Street
4. Nile House with many mosaics
5. Cardo
6. Public building
7. Dionysus (god of wine) Building with mosaics
8. Fortress
9. Residential area
10. Theater
11. Synagogue

Sepphoris in the Bible
While Sepphoris is not mentioned in the Bible, it is significant for several reasons:
1. It was close-by to Nazareth and employed many carpenters. Because Jesus was a construction worker, it's very likely Jesus worked here before starting His earthly ministry.
2. After the death of Jesus’ earthly father, Joseph, Christ became the chief financial provider for His family. Christ was very responsible in caring for His family and expects us to do the same (2 Thess. 3:10–11).
3. It appears Jesus used references about this city in His teachings (Matt. 5:14–15). Sepphoris was certainly a city on a hill. In fact, that’s what the name of this city means.
The word for actor in Greek is “hypocrite.” Because these actors would walk the streets sounding their horns to advertise an upcoming event at the city theater, Jesus used them as an example of what not to do when giving to others and serving God.
4. Jesus likely used the example of the mass crucifixion carried out by the Romans against the Jewish revolt here to teach about the cost of being His disciple (Mark 8:34–38).

updated 1 year ago

Sepphoris, Tsipori, Zippori: Did Jesus Work Here? Thousands of Jews Crucified, Capitol of Galilee

HolyLandSite 2023-03-03 | Could it be that Jesus worked here as a young man? Because Nazareth was so close to Sepphoris, and because Jesus was a Tekton (Greek for a construction worker of various types), Jesus and His earthy father, Joseph, undoubtedly worked here. Sepphoris was also the capital of the Galilee area during the time of Christ.

DONATE: paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=6FD65NH6WZFBU
TOUR TRIPS TO ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: holylandsite.com/holy-land-trips-israel
BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:53 - Location of Sepphoris: Place Jesus Worked
2:44 - Historical Background
7:11 - Sepphoris & the Bible
13:52 - Faith Lesson
16:55 - Outro

During the time of Jesus, because of a Jewish revolt, thousands of Jews were crucified here. Jesus likely used this example of what it meant to take up your cross and follow Him.

Location
1. Sepphoris is located about 4 miles (6 km.) northwest of Nazareth, about 14 miles (23 km.) from the Mediterranean Sea, and about 15 miles (25 km.) from the Sea of Galilee.
2. Because of its close proximity to Nazareth, it was easily accessible by Jesus and His father, Joseph.

Historical Background
1. The city started to grow during the 2nd Century BC under Greek rule.
2. Later, under Roman rule during the time of Christ, Herod Antipas (the son of Herod the Great) invested in it significantly and made it “the ornament of Galilee.” It was a sophisticated Roman city with all the luxuries of modern life at that time. It included a network of colonnaded paved streets, markets, residential houses, public buildings, bathhouses, a theater, and a synagogue.
3. Sepphoris rose to recognized status during the century before Christ because it was located right on one of the main trade routes linking Africa with Europe and Asia called "The Via Maris" (way of the sea). Therefore, it was a wealthy city.
4. It was also a military city guarded well by Roman troops.
5. Sepphoris was the capital of the Galilee area during the time of Christ.
6. In order to rebuild the city, Herod Antipas used a massive workforce.
7. Because Nazareth was so close to Sepphoris, and because Jesus was a Tekton (Greek for a construction worker of various types), Jesus and His father undoubtedly worked here.
8. So, in part, it’s also where Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man (Luke 2:52).
9. Because it was mainly a Jewish city, it was given its Hebrew name, Zippori, because it sits on a hilltop like a bird (Zippor).
10. Sepphoris is also known as the Mosaic City, as some of the best mosaics in all of Israel are found here. More than 40 mosaic floors reveal the bustling life of a Roman city and the luxury it afforded.
11. After Herod’s death in 4 BC, the Roman army put down a rebellion of Jewish rebels led by a man named Judas. These rebels numbering several thousand were killed; however, according to Josephus, 2,000 of them were kept alive to be crucified on its streets and close-by roads in the area. These mass crucifixions were carried out to instill fear in others who might consider rebelling against Roman rule.
12. Sepphoris did not join the Jewish rebellion in 66-70 AD and was therefore spared destruction.
13. After the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, Sepphoris became a center of Jewish learning and seat of the Sanhedrin supreme court. The Mishnah, the first authoritative collection of Jewish oral law, was compiled here.
14. Sepphoris witnessed Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman rule in the centuries following.

Places of Interest
1. Park Entrance
2. Water source
3. Decumanus Street
4. Nile House with many mosaics
5. Cardo
6. Public building
7. Dionysus (god of wine) Building with mosaics
8. Fortress
9. Residential area
10. Theater
11. Synagogue

Sepphoris in the Bible
While Sepphoris is not mentioned in the Bible, it is significant for several reasons:
1. It was close-by to Nazareth and employed many carpenters. Because Jesus was a construction worker, it's very likely Jesus worked here before starting His earthly ministry.
2. After the death of Jesus’ earthly father, Joseph, Christ became the chief financial provider for His family. Christ was very responsible in caring for His family and expects us to do the same (2 Thess. 3:10–11).
3. It appears Jesus used references about this city in His teachings (Matt. 5:14–15). Sepphoris was certainly a city on a hill. In fact, that’s what the name of this city means.
The word for actor in Greek is “hypocrite.” Because these actors would walk the streets sounding their horns to advertise an upcoming event at the city theater, Jesus used them as an example of what not to do when giving to others and serving God.
4. Jesus likely used the example of the mass crucifixion carried out by the Romans against the Jewish revolt here to teach about the cost of being His disciple (Mark 8:34–38).

Ashkelon Uncovered Tour: Oldest Canaanite Gate (4000 Years) in the World - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-09-06 | youtu.be/fMdH0amU0kg

Amazing discovery of the oldest Canaanite Gate in the world. Learn about the location, history, sites, places of interest, and things from the Bible that took place at Ashkelon.
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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:28 - Location
2:13 - Historical Background
4:41 - Sites of Interest
8:36 - Ashkelon in the Bible
11:20 - Faith Lesson from Ashkelon

Location
1. Ashkelon is located just south of Ashdod. It also is on the Mediterranean Ocean and was one of the five cities of the Philistines.

Historical Background
1. South of the modern city of Ashkelon is a large National park with ruins of the ancient city. It has a history of 4,000 years and was a port city located on the main trade route from Egypt to the North. It started as a huge fortified Canaanite city and continued as a Philistine city, turning into a thriving commercial center and independent city during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
2. The origin of the name Ashkelon appears to come from the word “shekel,” denoting a measure of weight – a fitting name for a commercial port city.
3. The specific name Ashkelon is mentioned in the Egyptian execration texts of the 19th century BC, and it appears again in other, later Egyptian inscriptions.
4. Ashkelon has the world's oldest Canaanite Gate in the world which dates back to almost 4000 years ago.
5. Ashkelon also played a part in the battle against the Assyrians. Zedaka, the ruler of Ashkelon, joined the rebellion of Hezekiah, king of Judah (701 BCE). In response, Sennacherib, king of Assyria, took over the city and replaced the treacherous ruler with one of his subjects.
6. The city changed hands many times after that, as Greeks and Maccabees and Romans and Muslims and Crusaders all had their turn. Some think that Herod the Great was born in Ashkelon; the fact is that he did build a palace and aqueduct there.
7. The Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, who came to the city later, was less merciful. In 604 BC, he deported Aga, the last Philistine king of Ashkelon, and razed the city to the ground.
8. During the Persian period, Ashkelon was a prosperous commercial city under the auspices of the port cities of Tyre and Sidon.
9. It was used as a border fortress by the Crusaders from around 1100-1191 AD. However, Saladin destroyed the Ashkelon fortress in AD 1191 (during the end of the Crusader Period). As a result, the city lay in ruins for a century. This basically ended its history.
10. After this time, a town was built by Arabs near the original site of Ashkelon and called Al-Majdal.
11. Today, a large national park beautifully preserves the history of ancient Ashkelon. It's well worth a visit if you have a chance to see it.

Places of Interest
1. The Canaanite Gate
2. The Rampart
3. Medieval Walls
4. The Roman Basilica
5. St. Mary Viridis Church
6. Wells: Within the national park, there are 67 wells, the majority of them from the Byzantine period.
7. Natural sand dunes and landscapes.

Ashkelon in the Bible
1. Joshua and the Israelites conquered Ashkelon in the conquest of the Promised Land (Josh. 13:3), and it was allotted to Judah, who then occupied it (Judg. 1:18).
2. One of the golden tumors (emerods) that was returned with the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines was from Ashkelon.1 Samuel 6:17: Now these are the gold tumors which the Philistines returned as a guilt offering to the Lord: one for Ashdod, one for Gaza, one for Ashkelon, one for Gath, and one for Ekron.
3. Askelon is mentioned by David when, after Saul and Jonathan die, he lamented and mourned over them.
2 Samuel 1:19-20: Your beauty, Israel, is slaughtered on your high places! How the mighty have fallen! 20 Tell it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon, or the daughters of the Philistines will rejoice, the daughters of the uncircumcised will celebrate.
4. Ashkelon was also denounced by Jeremiah (Jer. 25:20, 47:5–7), Zephaniah (2:4–7), and Zechariah (9:5).

Faith Lesson from Ashkelon
1. God used the Philistines to punish the Israelites because they turned away from Him and followed false gods. In the same way, God often uses people in our lives to get us back on track with the Lord when we stray.
2. God judged the city of Ashkelon and held them accountable for their sins. In the same way, God will hold those who reject Him accountable today as well. We will all stand before God and give an account for our lives.
3. What about us? Are we right with God and letting our lights shine to a world that needs God and His salvation through Jesus Christ?

En Gedi: Living Water in the Desert, Davids Hideout, Masada, Dead Sea - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-09-03 | youtu.be/v4hv0i7UAso

See and learn about this amazing oasis of living water in the desert. David hid out here when fleeing from King Saul, and God refers to Himself as living water for our dry and thirsty souls.

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Location
1. En Gedi is located on the west side of the lower Dead Sea area about 11 miles (17 km.) north of Masada on Hwy. 90.
2. It’s a beautiful oasis fed by a large spring in a barren, dry place.

Historical Background
1. En Gedi was inhabited by the Canaanites during the time of Abraham and Lot.
2. The Dead Sea basin was once like a Garden of the Lord.
Genesis 13:10–12: Lot lifted up his eyes and saw all the valley of the Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere—this was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah—like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt as you go to Zoar. 11 So Lot chose for himself all the valley of the Jordan, and Lot journeyed eastward. Thus they separated from each other. 12 Abram settled in the land of Canaan, while Lot settled in the cities of the valley, and moved his tents as far as Sodom.
3. Due to the abundant water supply, the village by En Gedi Park has had a long history of habitation from ancient days to the present.
4. Today, this area is extremely dry, and En Gedi is an oasis of living water in the desert.

Places of Interest
1. Park entrance
2. Hiking trail
3. Nahal David Stream
4. Lower pools
5. Upper pools
6. Upper waterfall
7. Synagogue at Tel Goren (Jorn)
8. Ancient and modern En Gedi town
9. Dead Sea

En Gedi in the Bible
1. En Gedi was used in a love poem in the book of Song of Solomon.
Song of Solomon 1:14: My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En Gedi.
2. In the Millennial Reign of Christ on earth, God speaks of how He will change the Dead Sea region once again to be like a garden due to a supernatural river that will flow from Jerusalem.
Ezekiel 47:9–10: And wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish. For this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes. 10 Fishermen will stand beside the sea. From En Gedi to Eneglaim it will be a place for the spreading of nets. Its fish will be of very many kinds, like the fish of the Great Sea.
3. En Gedi was one of David’s main hideouts when Saul was pursuing his life.
1 Samuel 23:28–29: So Saul returned from pursuing after David and went against the Philistines. Therefore, that place was called the Rock of Escape. 29 And David went up from there and lived in the strongholds of En Gedi.
4. En Gedi is a perfect example of living water in the desert.
The Israelites were a desert people whose whole history was related to the desert. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, along with the Israelite’s time in Egypt, and their wandering in the desert for 40 years, all took place in a desert. Also, much of Israel is a desert as well.
The Israelites fully knew that living water meant life and survival.
5. God used the desert and living water as examples of judgment upon Israel.
Jeremiah 2:12–13: Be appalled, O heavens, at this; be shocked, be utterly desolate, declares the LORD, 13 for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.
6. God used desert imagery to show how those who abandon Him are like a parched desert without water.
Jeremiah 17:5–8: Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD. 6 He is like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness, in an uninhabited salt land.
7. Christ referred to Himself as the source of living water.
John 7:37–38: On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."

Faith Lesson from En Gedi
1. Living water in the Bible refers to spiritual life and vitality found only in being right with God.
2. Stagnant water is full of sickness and diseases and refers to the person who lives life without being right with God.
3. Have we received Christ, the source of living water?
4. Do we fellowship regularly with God in order to receive living water for our souls?
5. Do we read God’s Word which gives living water to our spirits and nourishes our hearts?
6. Are we seeking to find life and joy in our own pursuits and neglecting our relationship with God?

Mount Arbel Bible Teaching & Faith Lesson: The Amazing Site Where Jesus Gave the Great Commission!

HolyLandSite 2023-09-01 | Explore and experience the place where Jesus gave the Great Commission to go into all the world and preach the gospel. See a breathtaking view of the Sea of Galilee and all the sites around it.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
0:23 - Faith Lesson

Location
1. Mount Arbel is located on the west side of the Sea of Galilee and is the tallest mountain around the Sea of Galilee.
2. It has a spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee, which is about 8 miles (12 km.) wide, and about 13 miles (21 km.) long.
3. It rises about 1,200 ft. (365 m.) above the Sea of Galilee.
4. It has on its eastern side a cliff that drops right down to the Sea of Galilee basin.
5. This cliff has many natural caves used throughout history for battles and protection.

Sites Around the Sea of Galilee that Can be Seen from Mt. Arbel
1. Magdala
2. Gennesaret (Ginasor)
3. The area where Christ likely called several of His disciples
4. Chorazin
5. Tabgha - The likely place Christ restored Peter to ministry
6. Mount of Beatitudes
7. Capernaum
8. Bethsaida
9. Bethsaida Lookout
10. Feeding the 5,000
11. Feeding the 4,000
12. Kursi
13. Horvat Susita
14 Where Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea

Places of Interest at Mt. Arbel
1. Park Entrance
2. Lookout location
3. Arbel Cliffs
4. Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages that lie below the cliffs.
5. Ancient Synagogue
6. Fortress
7. Hiking trail

Historical Background
1. History and tradition locate Mount Arbel as the place where Christ gave the Great Commission mandate to go into all the world and preach the gospel.
2. Many theologians believe this is the place because it is the tallest mountain in the area and provides a perfect view of the Sea of Galilee.
3. Because Christ spent around 60% to 70% of His ministry time around the Sea of Galilee, Mount Arbel would have provided the perfect backdrop as Christ gave His disciples the powerful Great Commission mandate.
4. The Great Commission was one of the last contacts Christ had with His disciples, which shows the importance of this commandment.
5. The cliffs of Mount Arbel have natural caves that have been used as shelters for rebels against Herod the Great, revolts against the Romans, and later periods. The ruins of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages lie below the cliffs and on its southwestern side.

Bethel: Jacobs Dream, Golden Calf Altar, Abraham & Jacob Altars - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-30 | youtu.be/FWMBUJfx2xM

Only Jerusalem is mentioned more than Bethel in the Bible. Bethel (Beit El) is an amazing place. In this video, we leave no rock unturned. You will learn everything there is to know about Bethel in this video.

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Historical Background
1. Bethel is mentioned sixty times in the Bible, representing over thirty distinct stories and prophecies, all found in the Old Testament. Only Jerusalem is mentioned more times in the Bible than Bethel.
2. Bethel means “House of God.”
3. The site of Bethel, the close-by sites of Abraham and Jacob, and the high place are all holy to Christians, Jews, and Muslims. They have artifacts, buildings, tombs, and ruins pertaining to each religion.

Places of Interest
1. The site where Abraham and Jacob pitched their tents and built altars.
There are ruins at this site which provide strong evidence that this was the place Abraham and Jacob pitched their tents and built altars. Later, a Byzantine church was erected here, marking this spot. Jerome (347-420 AD), an early Christian leader, confirms this. He wrote the following about this site: "There is also a church built where Jacob slept as he passed to Mesopotamia."
2. The original city of Bethel.
This site was once excavated and revealed ancient Bethel's walls, buildings, and remains. It has since been abandoned and filled in by those living in the area. However, some remains can still be seen in various places.
3. The high place of worship.
1. Muslim Prayer Shrine
2. Crusader Chapel
3. 1,000-year-old oak tree, and other ancient trees (trees were never cut at holy sites).
4. Walls of a Byzantine Church
5. Walls & towers of protection – these would have been used during times of war between Judah and Israel after the nation divided.
6. Burial Tombs
7. Ruins of a foundation measuring the exact size of the tabernacle.
8. Jeroboam’s Golden-Calf Altar

Bethel in the Bible
1. It was near Bethel that Abraham built one of the first altars mentioned in the Bible, and there he: “invoked the name of the Lord.” Genesis 12:8
2. After Abraham fled to Egypt to escape a famine in the Holy Land, he returned to the same place near Bethel, and once again invoked the name of the Lord. Genesis 13:2–4
3. When Jacob was fleeing from his brother Esau, he stopped for the night at Bethel, where he had a dream. Genesis 28:10–22
4. When Jacob was in Paddan-aram, God told him to return to the land of Israel.
Genesis 31:13: I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed a pillar, where you made a vow to Me; now arise, leave this land, and return to the land of your birth.
5. After Jacob returned to the Holy Land, he moved to Bethel to live. God spoke to him and changed his name from Jacob to Israel. Genesis 35:1, Genesis 35:9-15
6. Bethel was a place the tabernacle resided for some time during the period of the Judges. Judges 20:26–27
7. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Jeroboam, the king of the northern kingdom, set up golden calves in Bethel and Dan. 1 Kings 12:26–29
8. God warned Jeroboam about erecting the golden calves at Bethel. Jeroboam’s arm withered and was then restored by a prophet to show Jeroboam that God was serious about his great sin. However, Jeroboam did not heed God’s warning. 1 Kings 13:1–34
9. The continual disobedience of Jeroboam, and the succeeding kings, sealed the fate of Bethel. By the time of Jesus’ birth, Bethel had completely faded away as a place of importance and is not mentioned anywhere in the New Testament.
10. Josiah, a righteous king, destroyed the Golden-Calf Altar Jeroboam erected at Bethel. 2 Kings 23:15
11. Just before Elijah ascended to heaven, he and Elisha were in Bethel. 2 Kings 2:1–3
12. After Assyria conquered and exiled the Northern Kingdom of Israel, the king of Assyria sent one of the captured Israelite priests back to Bethel to teach the people from other nations who lived in Israel how to worship Yahweh, the true and living God. 2 Kings 17:24–41

Faith Lesson from Bethel
1. Bethel was a place of two different kinds of responses to God.
It was a place where Abraham and Jacob had special encounters with God and worshiped Him, and a place where the Ark of the Covenant dwelt, which represented the presence and glory of God.
Unfortunately, it also represents a place of disobedience to God and the worship of false gods and idols.
2. We could learn a great lesson from this biblical site of Bethel.
3. Are we going to be like those who worshiped and obeyed God, or like those who disobeyed and worshiped their own desires and plans?

Discovery Tour of Jerusalem Archaeological Davidson Center! Western Wall - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-28 | youtu.be/AxLsWZgBwfs

Discover one of Old City Jerusalem's outstanding sites. See the devastating remains of the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Walk the same Herodian street Jesus walked. See the Trumpeters Stone, the Southern Stair entrance to the Temple Mount, and much more!
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Places of Interest
1. Herodian Stones
2. Herod's Temple Mount expansion section
3. Trumpeter's Cornerstone (House of the Trumpeter) The original is in the Israel Museum. This one is an exact replica.
The Jewish historian, Josephus, writes about this in his writings. Three blowings of the trumpet took place: (1) for the farmers to stop their work (2) for the shopkeepers to close down, and (3) for the Sabbath to officially begin (or other holy feasts).
4. Shops
5. Broken Pavement from the stones that fell during the Roman destruction in 70 AD
6. Burnt layers in the Western Wall from the Roman destruction
7. Isaiah Stone
Right under the arch, we can see the so-called "Isaiah Stone." It has a carved inscription in Hebrew with a partial quote or paraphrase of Isaiah 66:14. The carving says: "And them will see, and rejoice your heart, and your bones like grass shall flourish."
The verse they are quoting goes like this: When you see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like grass; the hand of the Lord shall be known to His servants, and His indignation to His enemies.
The inscription has been dated to around 300 to 700 AD and tells us that the Jews at that time venerated the Temple Mount as the location of the temple. It's just another piece of evidence revealing the Temple Mount as the authentic place where the temple once stood.
8. Pilgrim's Road (Herodian St.) led from the Pool of Siloam to the Southern Stairs and Robinson's Arch Stairway area.
9. Southern Stairs
10. Mikvehs by the Southern Stairs
11. Royal Stoa - Large public meeting building on the south side of the Temple Mount just above the Southern Stairs.
12. Southern Stairs entrance doors to the Temple Mount
13. Crusader tower
14. Original stairs
15. Temple Mount
16. City of David

Mount of Beatitudes Tour! Sermon on the Mount, Galilee, Jesus Teaches - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-26 | youtu.be/I2ciGcdX_7Q

Tour and experience the place where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount overlooking the beautiful Sea of Galilee.
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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:38 - Tour of Site
9:14 - Sermon on the Mount Bible Talk
29:22 - Faith Lesson

Magdala Faith Lesson: Hometown & Life of Mary Magdalene, Sea of Galilee! Magadan, Jesus Healed Many!

HolyLandSite 2023-08-25 | Take a tour of all the sites of Magdala by the Sea of Galilee. See the latest discoveries and learn about the life of Mary Magdalene, one of Christ's most devoted followers and from whom Christ cast out seven demons. She was the first one at the tomb after Christ rose from the dead and is mentioned throughout the Gospels. See how her life was drastically changed by Christ and some faith lessons we can learn from here and this site of Magdala!

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:08 - Overview & Synagogue
4:41 - Fish Market Area
5:09 - Residential Area
6:10 - Duc In Altum Center
7:08 - Info About Magdala & Life of Mary Magdalene
19:52 - Faith Lessons for Us Today from the Life of Mary Magdalene

Location
1. Magdala, also known as Migdal, is located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee.
2. It was located on the Via Maris (International Highway linking Africa with Asia and Europe).
Historical Background
1. This particular part of Magdala was recently discovered in 2009. It’s believed a flash flood covered it sometime in the latter part of the 1st Century, as no coins or artifacts were found dating later than 67 AD.
2. It was a fishing village with one of the largest fish markets in the northern Galilee area.
3. It has one of the oldest, most well-preserved synagogues in Israel.
4. This synagogue was in use during the time of Jesus, and He certainly would have preached here on a regular basis.
Matthew 4:23: And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people.
5. On one occasion, Jesus came to this area after feeding 4,000 people on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee.
Matthew 15:38–39: Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. 39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan (Magdala).
6. It had a population of around 1,000–2,000 people during the time of Christ.
7. It had a boat harbor.
8. It has a rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem with detailed carvings showing different aspects of the temple.
9. Magdala was the hometown of the famous Jewish historian, Josephus.
10. It was the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out 7 demons.

Places of Interest
1. Synagogue
2. Beth Midrash (teaching area in the synagogue)
3. Stone with grooves (used for reading the scrolls in the synagogue)
4. A rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem in the synagogue
5. Well-preserved mosaics in the synagogue
6. Scroll storage room in the synagogue
7. Marketplace
8. Fish market area
9. Residential area
10. Mikvahs
11. Harbor
12. Byzantine Monastery
13. Duc In Altum (Latin for "Put out into the deep") is a spiritual center in Magdala in which all can worship. It has a unique Galilean boat as an altar and has a beautiful view behind it of the Sea of Galilee. This center was built in honor of Mary Magdalene. One of its purposes is to honor and support women today.

Miracles of the Exodus: Red Sea Crossing, Mt. Sinai, Ten Commandments - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-23 | youtu.be/rsn_HqSxkDg

See the miraculous events of the Exodus route the Israelites took from Egypt, the location of the Red Sea Crossing, and the location of Mt. Sinai.

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This video uses the Bible and new evidence and discoveries to bring this foundational biblical event to life. The miracles surrounding this story, and the new discoveries that have been found in the last 50 years, reveal that the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing and Mt. Sinai are much greater than most think. See this video to get the most accurate, and biblical analysis of these events. See places like Succoth, Elam, Wilderness of Sin, Nuweiba Port, Marah, Elim, Caves of Jethro, Rephidim, Altar of Jehovah Nissi, Altar of Moses, Altar of Aaron, Elijah's Cave, Mount Jebel al Lawz, and more.

Location
1. For many years it was believed that the Israelites crossed the Suez finger of the Red Sea just southeast of what is now Cairo, Egypt. However, there are no deep bodies of water in these areas but just shallow marshes and lakes. For this reason, the biblical account of this astounding miracle has been attempted to be discredited or erased altogether by liberal scholars.
2. Many recent archeologists and scholars now believe the Israelites crossed the Red Sea at the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea and that Mount Sinai is in Midian, which is part of modern-day Saudi Arabia.
Historical Background
1. God called Abraham and promised him He would make a great nation out of his offspring. Abraham obeyed and left everything to follow God.
2. Abraham birthed Isaac, who birthed Jacob, who birthed 12 sons. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel.
3. Jacob and his 12 sons moved to Egypt according to God’s sovereign plan (about 70–75 total people).
4. The Israelites spent 430 years in Egypt (30 years as free people under Joseph, and 400 years as slaves). During this time, they grew into a nation of around 2.5 to 3 million people.
5. God performed a miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt by performing 10 amazing miracles.
6. The last miracle, known as the Passover, happened when God killed the firstborn of all the Egyptians who did not put the blood of a lamb over the doorposts of their homes.
Places and things of Interest:
Moses, Mount Sinai, Egypt, Goshen, Suez Finger of the Red Sea, Traditional Red Sea Crossing Place, Sinai Peninsula, Aqaba Finger of Red Sea, Nuweiba Beach, Saudi Arabia Beach, Red Sea Crossing, Elim, Caves of Jethro, Rephidim, Mount Horeb, Burning Bush, Exodus, Ten Commandments, Golden Calf, Altar of Moses, Israel, Sinai Peninsula, Well of Moses, Saudi Arabia, Al Bad, Exodus chapter one, Exodus chapter two, Exodus chapter 3, Exodus chapter 4, Exodus chapter 5, Exodus chapter 6, Exodus chapter 7, Exodus chapter 8, Exodus chapter 9, Exodus chapter 10, Exodus chapter 11, Exodus chapter 12, Exodus chapter 13, Exodus chapter 14, Exodus chapter 15, Exodus chapter 16, Exodus chapter 17, Exodus chapter 18, Exodus chapter 19, Exodus chapter 20

Places of Interest
1. Egypt
2. Goshen
3. Suez Finger of the Red Sea
4. Traditional Red Sea Crossing Place
5. Sinai Peninsula
6. Aqaba Finger of Red Sea
7. Nuweiba Beach
8. Saudi Arabia Beach
9. Red Sea Crossing
10. Marah
11. Elim
12. Magna Oasis
13. Wilderness of Sin
14. Caves of Jethro
15. Rephidim
16. Mount Sinai

Faith Lesson from the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing, and Mount Sinai
1. The deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt was done to show several deep theological truths.
To show God’s power and glory (He is above all gods and is the only true God).
To be a foreshadow of salvation and deliverance (God can save and deliver us as He did the Israelites).
To teach His chosen people how to follow and obey Him.
To show his power and glory to the other nations.
2. The important thing to realize is that the location of the events of the Exodus, Red Sea crossing, and Mount Sinai are not the determining factor for whether the Bible is true or not. However, this evidence does strengthen our faith to know the events spoken of in Scripture are true and historical.
3. The miracles surrounding the Exodus, Red Sea crossing, and Mount Sinai are some of the greatest miracles found in Scripture.
4. All of this should inspire us to trust and obey God more fully.

Lachish: Vital Fortified City, Last City Conquered by Assyrian Invasion - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-21 | youtu.be/5IN0qIjSYxM

Lachish is regarded as the second most important city after Jerusalem in the Southern Kingdom of Judah and was strategically located on the Via Maris travel route. It was the last city conquered by the Assyrians before they set their sites on Jerusalem. However, God had other plans and supernaturally intervened and killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. See this amazing event in this video.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:22 - Lachish: Last City the Assyrians Conquered
3:09 - Location of Lachish in Israel
3:53 - Historical Background
8:11 - Lachish in the Bible
23:27 - Faith Lesson from Lachish

Info about Lachish
1. After God killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, King Sennacherib retreated to Ninevah, where he was killed by his own sons. King Hezekiah was a godly king who sought the Lord and saw God work mightily as a result. The prophet Isaiah played a key part in assisting Hezekiah through this amazing time.
2. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Lachish became a thriving Israelite city during king Rehoboam’s reign (920 BC), and around 10,000 people lived in the city at that time.
3. The King of Lachish joined 4 other kings to fight against the Gibeonites because they had made peace with Israel during the conquest of the Promised Land (Joshua 10:1–5).
4. Joshua prayed that the sun would stand still so the Israelites could defeat the 5 kings who had gathered to make war against the Gibeonites and the Israelites (Joshua 10:10–14).
5. Joshua and the Israelites conquer Lachish (Joshua 10:31–32).
6. King Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, fortified Lachish in about 920 BC after the kingdom of Israel was divided (2 Chronicles 11:5–12).
7. King Amaziah fled to Lachish after his defeat to the Northern Kingdom of Israel and was killed by his own countrymen in 767 BC (2 Chronicles 25:14–15).
8. God destroyed Lachish because of their continual rejection of God and sinful choices (Micah 1:13).
9. Lachish was attacked and destroyed by the Assyrians in 701 BC (2 Kings 18:13; 2 Chronicles 32:9–10).
10. God supernaturally protected Jerusalem from the Assyrian conquest (2 Kings 19:8–10; 2 Kings 19:20; 2 Kings 19:35–37).
11. Lachish was again destroyed by the Babylonians in around 587 BC (Jeremiah 34:6–7).
12. The destruction and deportations of the Israelites into Assyria and Babylon were because of their continual disobedience to God (Ezra 5:12, Ezra 9:7).

Faith Lesson from Lachish
1. God gave the Israelites a great victory over the king of Lachish by causing the sun to stand still and by sending great hailstones. Joshua demonstrated great faith in asking God to cause the sun to stand still. Do we realize God is able to do great miracles in our lives if we have faith like Joshua?
2. God supernaturally protected Jerusalem because of King Hezekiah’s devotion and faith and defeated the Assyrians by ordering one angel to kill 185,000 soldiers. If our hearts are right before God, there is nothing we should fear.
3. However, around 115 years later, God allowed the Israelites to be conquered by the Babylonians because of their continual sinful choices. When we are not right with God, we find ourselves in the hand of a disciplining God who will deal with us according to His wisdom.

Mt. Carmel: Prophet Elijahs Showdown with the False Prophets of Baal - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-19 | youtu.be/jmNi3zgCmg8

The great showdown between the Prophet and the prophets of Baal and Asherah is one of the greatest miracles in the Bible. Understand the details of this monumental event and learn lessons of faith that you can apply to your own life from this great miracle.

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Mount Carmel: The Great Showdown Between Elijah & the False Prophets of Baal.
Location
1. The place marking the great showdown between Elijah and the false prophets is known as Deir Al-Mukhraqa Carmelite Monastery. The Discalced Carmelites are made up of Catholic men and women who dedicate themselves to a life of prayer. The Carmelite nuns live in monasteries and follow a wholly thoughtful and reflective life.
2. Mount Carmel is located about 9 miles (15 km.) east of the Mediterranean Sea in the Carmel Mountain Range, which is in the northern part of Israel. It’s also about 28 miles (44 km.) southwest of the Sea of Galilee.
3. Mount Carmel was a High Place of worship to the false god of Baal and Asherah during Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, and 1 & 2 Kings.
4. It has a spectacular view of the Jezreel Valley, which is also known as the Valley of Armageddon. Armageddon is where part of the last battle on earth takes place at the end of the Great Tribulation Period.
5. From Mount Carmel, Nazareth and Cana can be seen to the northeast.

Historical Background
1. The great showdown between the Prophet Elijah and the 850 prophets of Baal and Asherah began around 100 years earlier when King Solomon sowed the seeds that would destroy Israel morally.
2. Against God’s clear commandments to the Israelites, Solomon married many foreign wives.
3. These foreign wives worshipped false gods, and in order to honor them, Solomon built high places of worship all over Israel where these false gods could be worshipped. 1 Kings 11 recounts this tragic reality.
4. As a result, the worship of false gods became rampant in the land.
5. Because of the worship of false gods, God pronounced judgment on the nation of Israel, and it was divided into two kingdoms after Solomon’s death.
6. Rehoboam, one of Solomon’s sons, took the Southern Kingdom of Judah, which consisted of 2 tribes, and Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s officials, took the Northern Kingdom, which consisted of 10 tribes.
7. Because Jeroboam was afraid many of his people would defect to Rehoboam’s kingdom by going to Jerusalem to worship God in the temple there, he introduced false gods into the northern tribes of Israel.
8. Jeroboam erected two golden calf altars at Bethel and Dan for his people to worship at instead of going to the temple in Jerusalem. He told his people that these golden calves were the gods who led them out of Egypt.
9. Several kings later, King Ahab, king of the Northern Kingdom, married a foreign wife named Jezebel, who worshipped the false gods of Baal (a male god) and Asherah (a female god). Jezebel promoted worship to these false gods by employing countless prophets of Baal and Asherah. She even supported them financially and fed them at her royal table.
10. Mt. Carmel was one of the key high places in Israel where the people worshiped Baal and Asherah.
12. Baal and Asherah were the gods of the weather. It was for this reason God sent a drought and then later sent rain. By doing so, He showed He was the true God of the weather and everything else. Baal worship was originally from the Canaanite nations God drove out because of their extreme wickedness.

Places of Interest (Please See Maps Above)
1. Mt. Carmel
2. Kishon Stream
3. Jezreel Valley
4. Tel Jezreel
5. Mediterranean Sea

Mount Carmel in the Bible
1. The showdown between Elijah and the false prophets takes place during the reign of Ahab, King of Israel.

Mount of Beatitudes Tour! Sermon on the Mount, Sea of Galilee, Church of Beatitudes, Jesus Teaches!

HolyLandSite 2023-08-18 | Tour and experience the place where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount overlooking the beautiful Sea of Galilee.
DONATE: paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=6FD65NH6WZFBU
TOUR TRIPS TO ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: holylandsite.com/holy-land-trips-israel
BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:38 - Tour of Site
9:14 - Sermon on the Mount Bible Talk
29:22 - Faith Lesson

Faith Lesson From Shiloh: Never Use Your Past as an Excuse - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-16 | Full Video: youtu.be/2M7qssYGGhg

Explore ancient Shiloh. This in-depth tour leaves no stone uncovered. Learn everything you need to know. Learn about the location, sites of interest, history, Bible talk, and faith lessons. Shiloh was the main spiritual center of Israel during much of the Old Testament.
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Location
1. Shiloh is about 20 miles (32 km.) north of Jerusalem.
2. It was on a major north-south travel route that linked Beersheba in the south to Shechem and the northern cities of Israel.
3. It had hills surrounding it, so when the nation gathered at Shiloh for feasts, they could camp around it and partake in the events. As a result, many pieces of pottery have been found on the hills around Shiloh.
4. Tel Shiloh is at an archaeological park called "Ancient Shiloh," located at the entrance to modern-day Shiloh.
5. Shiloh was in the hill country of Samaria within the tribal allotment of Ephraim.
6. It was likely chosen as Israel's capital and military base due to its central location within the country.

Historical Background
1. Shiloh was the religious and military capital of Israel during the times of the Judges, and the Tabernacle resided here for 369 years.
2. It was the first place where the Tabernacle became a permanent structure.
3. The Ark of the Covenant resided here within the Tabernacle.
4. Three churches were built during the Byzantine Period to commemorate Shiloh.
5. A Mosque was built on the west side of the ruins of the first two 4th-century Byzantine churches.

Places of Interest
1. Oil Press
2. Building with Hologram of the Tabernacle
3. 6th-century Byzantine Church
4. Byzantine Church Ruins (4th-century church has the Shiloh inscription)
5. Mosque built over Byzantine Churches
6. Stone of four-horned altar
7. Baptistry
6. Visitor Tower
7. Tabernacle Location
8. Cisterns
9. Storerooms
10. Canaanite Wall
11. Winepress

Shiloh In the Bible
1. During the conquest of the Promised Land (7-year period), the Tabernacle resided principally at Gilgal (Josh. 4:19–24).
2. After the conquest of the land was basically complete, the Tabernacle was set up in Shiloh, where it would reside for 369 years (Joshua 18:1).
3. At Shiloh, lots were cast to divide the land among the 7 tribes who had not yet received their inheritance on the west side of the Jordan River (Joshua 18:2–3).
4. From Shiloh, Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh departed for their homes east of the Jordan River (Joshua 22:9).
5. After departing from Shiloh to return home, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar at the Jordan River. The rest of the tribes misunderstood their purpose for the altar and met at Shiloh to go and fight against them.
Joshua 22:12: And when the people of Israel heard of it, the whole assembly of the people of Israel gathered at Shiloh to make war against them.
6. During a dark time in the book of Judges, the Benjamite tribe was almost wiped out by the other tribes of Israel because of their severe disobedience to God. To revive the population of Benjamin, wives were provided for them at Shiloh (Judges 21:19–21).
7. At Shiloh, Hannah prayed for a son. God heard her prayers and blessed her with Samuel (1 Samuel 1:3–5).
8. The sanctuary in Shiloh was called a "temple," as noted in 1 Samuel 1:9, 3:3. It had doorposts and doors, as seen in 1 Samuel 1:9, 3:15. It was, therefore, a more durable structure than the old Tent of Meeting (tabernacle).
9. Eli and his wicked sons presided over the Tabernacle at Shiloh. Then, through the prophet Samuel, the doom of their house was announced (1 Samuel 3:11–13).
10. In a battle with the Philistines, the ark was captured. As a result, the fall of Hophni and Phinehas and the death of Eli happened near Shiloh (1 Samuel 4:16–18).
11. The Ark of the Covenant was returned to Beth Shemesh by the Philistines and ended up staying at Abinadab's house for 20 years (1 Sam. 7:1).
12. Eventually, King David would take the ark to the City of David (1 Chron. 13, 15), and then it would be moved to the temple Solomon built (2 Chron. 5:2).

Ancient Shiloh: Tabernacle, Joshua, Samuel, Hannah, Ark of Covenant - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-14 | Full Video: youtu.be/2M7qssYGGhg

Explore ancient Shiloh. This in-depth tour leaves no stone uncovered. Learn everything you need to know. Learn about the location, sites of interest, history, Bible talk, and faith lessons. Shiloh was the main spiritual center of Israel during much of the Old Testament.
DONATE: paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=6FD65NH6WZFBU
TOUR TRIPS TO ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: holylandsite.com/holy-land-trips-israel
BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Location
1. Shiloh is about 20 miles (32 km.) north of Jerusalem.
2. It was on a major north-south travel route that linked Beersheba in the south to Shechem and the northern cities of Israel.
3. It had hills surrounding it, so when the nation gathered at Shiloh for feasts, they could camp around it and partake in the events. As a result, many pieces of pottery have been found on the hills around Shiloh.
4. Tel Shiloh is at an archaeological park called "Ancient Shiloh," located at the entrance to modern-day Shiloh.
5. Shiloh was in the hill country of Samaria within the tribal allotment of Ephraim.
6. It was likely chosen as Israel's capital and military base due to its central location within the country.

Historical Background
1. Shiloh was the religious and military capital of Israel during the times of the Judges, and the Tabernacle resided here for 369 years.
2. It was the first place where the Tabernacle became a permanent structure.
3. The Ark of the Covenant resided here within the Tabernacle.
4. Three churches were built during the Byzantine Period to commemorate Shiloh.
5. A Mosque was built on the west side of the ruins of the first two 4th-century Byzantine churches.

Places of Interest
1. Oil Press
2. Building with Hologram of the Tabernacle
3. 6th-century Byzantine Church
4. Byzantine Church Ruins (4th-century church has the Shiloh inscription)
5. Mosque built over Byzantine Churches
6. Stone of four-horned altar
7. Baptistry
6. Visitor Tower
7. Tabernacle Location
8. Cisterns
9. Storerooms
10. Canaanite Wall
11. Winepress

Shiloh In the Bible
1. During the conquest of the Promised Land (7-year period), the Tabernacle resided principally at Gilgal (Josh. 4:19–24).
2. After the conquest of the land was basically complete, the Tabernacle was set up in Shiloh, where it would reside for 369 years (Joshua 18:1).
3. At Shiloh, lots were cast to divide the land among the 7 tribes who had not yet received their inheritance on the west side of the Jordan River (Joshua 18:2–3).
4. From Shiloh, Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh departed for their homes east of the Jordan River (Joshua 22:9).
5. After departing from Shiloh to return home, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar at the Jordan River. The rest of the tribes misunderstood their purpose for the altar and met at Shiloh to go and fight against them.
Joshua 22:12: And when the people of Israel heard of it, the whole assembly of the people of Israel gathered at Shiloh to make war against them.
6. During a dark time in the book of Judges, the Benjamite tribe was almost wiped out by the other tribes of Israel because of their severe disobedience to God. To revive the population of Benjamin, wives were provided for them at Shiloh (Judges 21:19–21).
7. At Shiloh, Hannah prayed for a son. God heard her prayers and blessed her with Samuel (1 Samuel 1:3–5).
8. The sanctuary in Shiloh was called a "temple," as noted in 1 Samuel 1:9, 3:3. It had doorposts and doors, as seen in 1 Samuel 1:9, 3:15. It was, therefore, a more durable structure than the old Tent of Meeting (tabernacle).
9. Eli and his wicked sons presided over the Tabernacle at Shiloh. Then, through the prophet Samuel, the doom of their house was announced (1 Samuel 3:11–13).
10. In a battle with the Philistines, the ark was captured. As a result, the fall of Hophni and Phinehas and the death of Eli happened near Shiloh (1 Samuel 4:16–18).
11. The Ark of the Covenant was returned to Beth Shemesh by the Philistines and ended up staying at Abinadab's house for 20 years (1 Sam. 7:1).
12. Eventually, King David would take the ark to the City of David (1 Chron. 13, 15), and then it would be moved to the temple Solomon built (2 Chron. 5:2).

Sepphoris: Did Jesus Work Here? Thousands of Jews Crucified - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-12 | youtu.be/pNJa7gBTNY4

Could it be that Jesus worked here as a young man? Because Nazareth was so close to Sepphoris, and because Jesus was a Tekton (Greek for a construction worker of various types), Jesus and His earthy father, Joseph, undoubtedly worked here. Sepphoris was also the capital of the Galilee area during the time of Christ.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:53 - Location of Sepphoris: Place Jesus Worked
2:44 - Historical Background
7:11 - Sepphoris & the Bible
13:52 - Faith Lesson
16:55 - Outro

During the time of Jesus, because of a Jewish revolt, thousands of Jews were crucified here. Jesus likely used this example of what it meant to take up your cross and follow Him.

Location
1. Sepphoris is located about 4 miles (6 km.) northwest of Nazareth, about 14 miles (23 km.) from the Mediterranean Sea, and about 15 miles (25 km.) from the Sea of Galilee.
2. Because of its close proximity to Nazareth, it was easily accessible by Jesus and His father, Joseph.

Historical Background
1. The city started to grow during the 2nd Century BC under Greek rule.
2. Later, under Roman rule during the time of Christ, Herod Antipas (the son of Herod the Great) invested in it significantly and made it “the ornament of Galilee.” It was a sophisticated Roman city with all the luxuries of modern life at that time. It included a network of colonnaded paved streets, markets, residential houses, public buildings, bathhouses, a theater, and a synagogue.
3. Sepphoris rose to recognized status during the century before Christ because it was located right on one of the main trade routes linking Africa with Europe and Asia called "The Via Maris" (way of the sea). Therefore, it was a wealthy city.
4. It was also a military city guarded well by Roman troops.
5. Sepphoris was the capital of the Galilee area during the time of Christ.
6. In order to rebuild the city, Herod Antipas used a massive workforce.
7. Because Nazareth was so close to Sepphoris, and because Jesus was a Tekton (Greek for a construction worker of various types), Jesus and His father undoubtedly worked here.
8. So, in part, it’s also where Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man (Luke 2:52).
9. Because it was mainly a Jewish city, it was given its Hebrew name, Zippori, because it sits on a hilltop like a bird (Zippor).
10. Sepphoris is also known as the Mosaic City, as some of the best mosaics in all of Israel are found here. More than 40 mosaic floors reveal the bustling life of a Roman city and the luxury it afforded.
11. After Herod’s death in 4 BC, the Roman army put down a rebellion of Jewish rebels led by a man named Judas. These rebels numbering several thousand were killed; however, according to Josephus, 2,000 of them were kept alive to be crucified on its streets and close-by roads in the area. These mass crucifixions were carried out to instill fear in others who might consider rebelling against Roman rule.
12. Sepphoris did not join the Jewish rebellion in 66-70 AD and was therefore spared destruction.
13. After the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, Sepphoris became a center of Jewish learning and seat of the Sanhedrin supreme court. The Mishnah, the first authoritative collection of Jewish oral law, was compiled here.
14. Sepphoris witnessed Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman rule in the centuries following.

Places of Interest
1. Park Entrance
2. Water source
3. Decumanus Street
4. Nile House with many mosaics
5. Cardo
6. Public building
7. Dionysus (god of wine) Building with mosaics
8. Fortress
9. Residential area
10. Theater
11. Synagogue

Sepphoris in the Bible
While Sepphoris is not mentioned in the Bible, it is significant for several reasons:
1. It was close-by to Nazareth and employed many carpenters. Because Jesus was a construction worker, it's very likely Jesus worked here before starting His earthly ministry.
2. After the death of Jesus’ earthly father, Joseph, Christ became the chief financial provider for His family. Christ was very responsible in caring for His family and expects us to do the same (2 Thess. 3:10–11).
3. It appears Jesus used references about this city in His teachings (Matt. 5:14–15). Sepphoris was certainly a city on a hill. In fact, that’s what the name of this city means.
The word for actor in Greek is “hypocrite.” Because these actors would walk the streets sounding their horns to advertise an upcoming event at the city theater, Jesus used them as an example of what not to do when giving to others and serving God.
4. Jesus likely used the example of the mass crucifixion carried out by the Romans against the Jewish revolt here to teach about the cost of being His disciple (Mark 8:34–38).

Capernaum Tour: Town & Ministry Base of Jesus Christ! Sea of Galilee, Bible Teaching & Faith Lesson

HolyLandSite 2023-08-11 | Bible teaching and faith lesson at Capernaum, Israel, by the Sea of Galilee. Capernaum was the town of Jesus and was His ministry base for 3 1/2 years. Here's the full video: youtu.be/W51GoA9Kds4
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Location
1. Capernaum is located on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee.
2. Capernaum was located on the Via Maris, which was the main international highway of the known world during the time of Christ.
3. Today, Capernaum is shared between two sites. The Franciscan site receives around 90% of visitors as it has the synagogue, Peter’s home, village ruins, ancient artifacts, and access to the beach. The Greek Orthodox site has chosen to remain unexcavated and serene.

Historical Background
1. The name Capernaum is derived from two words, Caper, which means "village," and Naum, which means "rest," and is also from the title, Nahum. Therefore, some believe that the town was named after the Prophet Nahum, and some believe it was simply a place of rest.
2. Capernaum was a fishing village with a population of around 1,000 during the time of Christ. It encompassed what is today both the Franciscan and Greek Orthodox sites.
3. Capernaum became the hometown of Jesus after He moved from his boyhood home of Nazareth. It also became the ministry base of Christ during His ministry on earth (Matthew 4:13–17).
4. Capernaum is mentioned more than any other town around the Sea of Galilee.
5. Capernaum was also the home of Peter, James, Andrew, John, and Matthew.
6. The Synagogue in Capernaum was built by a Roman Centurion of whom Jesus healed his servant.
7. The synagogue that existed during Christ’s time is made from black basalt stone, and its foundations are under the current synagogue, built out of limestone.
8. The current synagogue was built in the 4th century and was quite luxurious and impressive.
9. The home of the Apostle Peter has been identified and now has a large modern church built over it. The location of Peter’s home is certain and has been verified by many substantial archaeological excavations.
10. Greek Orthodox site of Capernaum. This church was built in 1931 and dedicated to the twelve apostles.

Places of Interest
1. The home of Peter and Jesus
2. Village Houses
3. The Synagogue
4. Ancient Artifacts
5. Capernaum Greek Orthodox Site
6. Capernaum National Park

Capernaum in the Bible
1. Christ left Nazareth to live and set up His ministry base in Capernaum (Matthew 4:13-16).
2. Jesus frequently taught in the Synagogue in Capernaum (Mark 1:21–28).
3. Jesus healed Peter’s mother and many others here in Capernaum (Mark 1:29–34).
4. In Capernaum, Jesus forgave and healed a paralyzed man. This likely happened right at the home where Jesus lived (Mark 2:1–5).
5. Christ marveled at the great faith of a centurion in Capernaum (Luke 7:1–10).
6. The Parables of the Kingdom were preached close to Capernaum (Matthew 13:1–3).
7. The miracle of Peter getting money out of the mouth of a fish to pay the temple tax for himself and Jesus happened in Capernaum (Matthew 17:24-27).
8. Jesus called Matthew, the tax collector, close to Capernaum (Matthew 9:9).
9. Capernaum was one of the three towns Christ cursed because of their unbelief in Him (Matthew 11:23–24).

Faith Lesson from Capernaum
1. Christ astonished the large crowds who followed him because He taught with authority. He was completely different from all other teachers because He was God in the flesh. Are we astonished today as we read Christ’s teachings in His Word?
2. Christ healed multitudes of people in and around Capernaum. He also showed He was God as He forgave their sins. Forgiving sins is something only God can do. Do we believe Christ was God in the flesh and full deity?
3. Christ marveled at the great faith of a Roman Centurion. Do we trust God in such a way that He would marvel at our faith?
4. Unfortunately, Christ cursed the town of Capernaum because of their unbelief in Him. After all they had seen, and after many of them had been healed by Jesus, they still were filled with unbelief. Unbelief is, therefore, a sin. Do we have unbelief in Christ and who He claimed to be? Do we also have unbelief in trusting Him in our daily lives when things don’t seem to make sense?

Church of Holy Sepulchre History, Death, Burial, Resurrection of Jesus - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-09 | youtu.be/R9bLqNlWvSI

Take a journey through time and see the complete history of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre from the beginning to the present. See why it is indeed the true and authentic place where Jesus died, was buried, and rose again to pay for the sins of the world. Learn about the construction of the church and the destructions and renovations that have been done to it throughout the ages.
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Key People, Places, and Periods
Early Christians worshiped at the site of Golgotha and Calvary
Bar Kokhba Revolt
Roman Emperor Hadrian
Roman Emperor Constantine
Queen Helena
Upper Room Church
Temple Mount
Aelia Capitolina
Cardo Maximus
Basilica of Santa Pudenziana Rome
Jerusalem
Gennath Gate
Via Doloroso

Location
1. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located about 450 yards (415 m.) west of the Temple Mount.
2. It was located outside the city walls during the time of Christ.
3. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the believed place where Christ was crucified, buried, and rose from the dead.
4. It is the ending place to the Via Dolorosa path, and the last 5 stations are located at it.
5. It is visited by over a million people every year.

Places of Interest
1. The Chapel of the Franks (Station 10 of the Via Dolorosa) is located at the right of the entrance to the church.
2. A stairway on the right, just inside the entrance leads to Calvary (or Golgotha), the place where Jesus was crucified.
3. Chapel of the Nailing of the Cross (Station 11). It features a 12th-century mosaic of Jesus being nailed to the cross.
4. The Greek Orthodox Calvary contains the believed Rock of Calvary around which the church was built. The rock can be seen under a glass cover on either side of the main altar. Beneath the altar is a hole that permits people to touch the rock.
5. The Crucifixion Altar marks the place where Christ was crucified (Station 12). A silver disk with a central hole that lies underneath the altar marks the place where the Cross stood.
6. The Stone of Unction (Station 13), located just after entering the church, commemorates the preparation of Jesus' body for burial. Behind the Stone is a mosaic depicting Christ's anointing for burial.
7. Underneath the large dome of the church is the Tomb of Christ itself (Station 14). It is housed in a large shrine and is referred to as the Edicule. It is supported by scaffolding on the outside to protect it from possible earthquakes.
8. The Chapel of Adam enshrines a cracked slab of rock behind glass which is believed to have been caused by the earthquake after Christ died on the Cross.
9. The Catholicon (Greek Orthodox cathedral) area was the main part of the Crusader church.
10. Armenian Shrine and Chapel of the 3 Marys, also known as the Mourning place. It marks the place where they watched the crucifixion of Christ. John 19:25: Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
11. The heart of the Holy Sepulchre is a large round hall, otherwise known as the Rotunda. In the center of the Rotunda is the tomb of Jesus.
12. In 2016 an archaeological team was given permission to lift the marble slate covering the tomb and found under it an older marble slab with a carved cross on it and underneath it the original limestone burial bed.
13. The Coptic Chapel is located behind the tomb of Jesus.
14. The Jacobite (Syrian) Chapel is located in the original 4th century Constantine church walls. Within this chapel are burial tombs, one of which is believed to be that of Joseph of Arimathea.
15. Chapel of Mary Magdalene. Dedicated to the encounter Christ had with Mary after His resurrection.
16. Franciscan Church of the Aspiration of Mary. Dedicated to the meeting between Christ and His mother, Mary, at Christ’s crucifixion.
17. Arches of the Virgin Mary
18. Greek Orthodox Chapel of the Prison of Jesus
19. St Longinus Chapel. Longinus was the believed Roman Centurion who commanded the soldiers that stood watch at Golgotha. He was an eyewitness of the final moments of Jesus and proclaimed the Jesus was truly the Son of God.
20. Chapel of St. James
21. Chapel of John the Baptist
22. Division of the Holy Robes. The place commemorating the dividing of Christ’s clothing.
23. Derision chapel. This place commemorates how the mob derided Jesus by mocking and laughing at him while He hung on the Cross.
24. Armenian Chapel of St. Helena. Within this area is the Chapel of the Invention (discovery) of the Cross of Jesus.
25. Rock of Golgotha enclosed in glass.

Ancient Jericho Discoveries, Proof the Bible is True, Tell Es Sultan - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-07 | youtu.be/NwRDJmlCNLQ

Amazing archaeological evidence that proves the Bible is true. See an overview of all discoveries that have been found here and the amazing things that happened around Jericho!
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Location.
1. Jericho is in the Jordan Valley, about 8 miles (13 km.) north of the Dead Sea and about 15 miles (24 km.) east of Jerusalem.
2. It’s situated at 900 ft. (275 m.) below sea level, making it the lowest city in the world.
3. Jericho claims to be the oldest city in the world that has been continuously inhabited.
4. Its name means “City of Palms.”
5. It was located at the crossroads of two main travel routes. It had a north-south route that ran through the Jordan Valley and an east-west route that connected the east side of the Jordan River with Jerusalem, the Samaritan cities, and the coastal plain cities of the Mediterranean Sea.
6. It has a year-round climate with lots of sunshine.
7. Tel Jericho is also known today as Tell Es-Sultan.

Historical Background
1. Jericho was a well-fortified Canaanite city before the arrival of the Israelites.
2. It’s an ancient city with about 6–7 thousand years of history.
3. Archaeologists have uncovered 23 levels of civilizations in Tel Jericho.
4. The city was fortified with double walls.
• The walls were constructed of large stones at the base and mud bricks continuing upwards.
• The exterior wall’s stone base was about 15 feet high (3 m.), and the mud-brick wall on top of it was another 20–25 feet tall (8 m.), for a total of around 40 feet (13 m.).
• The inner wall was constructed the same way; only it rose even higher than the exterior wall for a total height of around 50 feet (15 m.).
• The width of the walls were around 20 feet (6 m.) wide, and people lived in them (Josh. 2:15).
• These double walls were enormous and overwhelming in size and strength.
5. Jericho was given by Marc Antony (Roman general under Julius Caesar) to Cleopatra (Pharaoh of Egypt) as a wedding gift in 36 BC.
6. King Herod built a winter palace in Jericho around 20 BC and would later die there as well.
7. During the Byzantine period, homes and churches were built in the area.
8. During the Crusader period, the town was moved about a mile (1.6 km.) southeast of Tel Jericho.

Places of Interest in General
1. Tel Jericho
2. Mount of Temptation Monastery
3. Jericho Cable Cars (access to Mount of Temptation Monastery)
4. Hisham’s Palace (8th-century Muslim Palace)
5. Modern Jericho
6. Shittim (place the Israelites camped on the east side of the Jordan River before entering the Promised Land)
7. Camp Gilgal (place the Israelites camped after entering the Promised Land)
8. Zacchaeus Tree
9. Herod’s Palace
10. St. George’s Monastery (hanging monastery with Cave of Elijah)
11. Baptismal Site of Jesus
12. Jordan River
13. Dead Sea

Places of Interest at Tel Jericho
1. Elisha’s Spring (tourist viewing place)
2. Tower
3. Double Walls
4. Ancient Homes (location 1)
5. Burn & Ash Layers
6. Palace
7. Building
8. Neolithic Tower
9. Byzantine Homes
10. Walls
11. Ancient Homes
12. Preserved Wall and Homes (likely area where Rahab lived)
13. Elisha’s Spring (main source)

Archaeological Evidence that Proves the Bible is True
1. Retaining Walls
2. Fallen Mud-Brick Walls
3. Preserved section of the wall where Rahab likely lived.
4. Burn Layer
5. Burnt Full Jars of Barley
6. The Battle was Short
7. The battle took place in the Spring during the barley harvest.
8. Discovered abandonment layer due to Joshua's curse on Jericho.
9. Jericho was rebuilt by the Israelites during the time of King Ahab.
10. Israelite occupation layer.

Jericho In the Bible
1. Rahab, the prostitute, who hid the Israelite Spies, was from Jericho (Joshua 2:1).
2. The Children of Israel crossed the Jordan River near Jericho (Joshua 3:14–16).
3. The Israelites camped at Gilgal after entering the Promised Land (Joshua 4:19).
4. The Israelites celebrated the Passover after crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 5:10).
5. Jericho was the first city captured by the Israelites in the Promised Land (Joshua 6:1–5).
6. The mud-brick walls of Jericho fell flat (beneath themselves) and formed a ramp (Joshua 6:20–22).
7. Joshua burned the city of Jericho with fire. Burn layer found throughout the tel (Joshua 6:24).
8. Joshua cursed Jericho and laid abandoned for many centuries. This formed an abandonment layer that can be seen today (Joshua 6:26).
9. Jericho was rebuilt during the time of King Ahab in around 875 BC (1 Kings 16:34).
10. Elisha healed the water source of Jericho (2 Kings 2:19–22).
11. The miracle of a blind man healed by Jesus occurred by Jericho (Luke 18:35–43).
12. Zacchaeus, the Tax Collector, was from Jericho (Luke 19: 1–10).

Jerusalem Tour of All the Holy Sites! Temple, Mt. of Olives, Gethsemane - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-05 | youtu.be/9iGZLzGyciw

This is a beautiful tour of all the holy sites in Jerusalem using a drone and walking media, along with pleasant narration and music.

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Sites you see: Old City Jerusalem, Mt. of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Triumphal Entry, Western Wall, City of David, Kidron Valley, Southern Stairs, Temple Mount, Bethesda, Pool of Siloam, Pater Noster Church, Chapel of Ascension, Dominus Flevit Church, Cardo, House of Caiaphas, Upper RoomKidron Valley, Hinnom Valley, Via Dolorosa, Pilates Palace and Judgment of Jesus, and much more!

Dead Sea Scrolls Discovery! Proof Bible Is True! Dead Sea Scrolls Faith Lesson, Qumran, Dead Sea!

HolyLandSite 2023-08-04 | See all the evidence that proves the Bible is true and trustworthy. Learn the incredible facts about the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran. Also, learn why the Bible we have today is the same as the one discovered here over 2000 years ago and why you can trust it. To see the full video: youtu.be/Xt3J-xvTIHw

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Location
1. Qumran is located on the northwest side of the Dead Sea on Hwy. 90 about 13 miles (21 km.) east of Jerusalem.
2. It’s in the Judean Wilderness, where it’s barren and hot.
3. It’s located 1200 feet (366 m.) below sea level.
4. Its water source comes from the Judean Mountains to the west of the community via an aqueduct.
5. There are many caves in the area.
6. At Qumran, one of the most important discoveries in the history of biblical archaeology took place in around 1947.

Historical Background
1. It’s believed that the ancient settlement of Qumran was established by a Jewish group called the Essenes.
2. They lived here from about 200 BC to around 68 AD.
3. There were around 200 people who inhabited Qumran during its history.
4. The Essenes were a Jewish sect that flourished from the 2nd century BC to the 1st century AD. They were a spiritually devoted group of folks who left Jerusalem because they believed that the priesthood had become corrupted beyond repair and separated themselves to study the Bible, copy it, and seek the Lord in the desert.
5. The Essenes existed in large numbers; thousands lived throughout Judaea. They were fewer in number than the Pharisees and Sadducees (the other two major sects at the time). The Essenes lived in various cities but congregated in communal life dedicated to voluntary poverty, daily immersion, and asceticism. They mainly lived in the surrounding caves or tents just outside the community.
6. They were a strict Torah observant, Messianic, apocalyptic, new covenant Jewish sect. They were led by a priest they called the "Teacher of Righteousness.” They were highly educated and very familiar with writing and study.
7. The Essenes most likely wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls from about 200 BC to 68 AD.
8. It's likely the Essenes stored their copied manuscripts in caves so they were protected from the elements and safe in case of war.

Historical Background of the Dead Sea Scrolls
1. Around 1947, Bedouin shepherds were tending their goats and sheep near the ancient settlement of Qumran. One of the young shepherds threw a rock into a cave and heard an echo sound. He and his friends later climbed into the cave and found a collection of large clay jars, seven of which contained leather and papyrus scrolls. The scrolls would eventually find their way into the hands of archaeologists and scientists.
2. The scrolls were discovered in eleven caves between the years of 1947 and 1956. The manuscripts are numbered according to the caves in which they were found.
3. There are around 972 manuscripts (15,000 fragments) that have been found to date. The longest is 26 feet (8 m.) long.
4. They include fragments from every book of the Old Testament except for the Book of Esther (Esther might have been lost or decomposed due to time or may have been damaged by the Bedouin shepherds).
5. The writings consist of biblical manuscripts and other religious writings that circulated during the Second Temple era (516 BC to 70 AD). About 230 of the manuscripts are referred to as biblical scrolls. However, many of the manuscripts were fragmented and had to be assembled.
6. Cave 4, which is right beside ancient Qumran, had around 75% of all the material from the Qumran caves.
7. The Isaiah Scroll, found relatively intact, is 1,000 years older than any previously known copy of Isaiah, and the other scrolls are the oldest group of Old Testament manuscripts ever found.
8. The major intact manuscripts from Caves 1 and 11 were published by the late fifties and are now housed in the Shrine of the Book Museum in Jerusalem.
9. To date, there are around 53 caves that have been discovered, many of them containing more scrolls.
10. Amazingly, the biblical manuscripts are virtually identical to the manuscripts we have today of the Old Testament part of the Bible. This proves God’s ability to preserve His word through the ages.

Place Jesus Was Condemned to Crucifixion by Pontius Pilate - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-08-02 | youtu.be/bmD08bMIMf8

This is a Bible and Faith Lesson filmed at the location where Jesus was condemned to crucifixion by Pontius Pilate. For full video: youtu.be/hNpdU9S3Y3A

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
0:23 - Bible Teaching
17:44 - Faith Lesson

Places of Interest
1. Pilate's Palace Complex
Palace
Courtyard
Soldier Barracks
Stone Walls from the Time of Jesus
2. Dirt Level Before Excavation of This Site
3. Gate Entrance to Pilate’s Palace from Outside the Palace
4. Steps Leading Up to the Gate Entrance to Pilate's Palace
5. Preserved Wall of Herod the Great
6. Preserved Stone Pavement
7. Bema Seat – Judgment Seat
8. Bema Seat Stone
9. Outside Pilate’s Palace – Open Country
10. Jaffa Gate
11. Citadel of David
12. Three Towers Herod Erected
13. House of Caiaphas
14. Likely Route of the True Via Dolorosa
15. Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Location
1. John 18 : 28–29: “Then they brought Jesus from Caiaphas into the Praetorium [governor's headquarters, ESV; palace of the Roman governor, NIV], and it was early; and they themselves did not enter the Praetorium so that they would not be defiled, but might eat the Passover. 29 Therefore Pilate came out to them and said, “What accusation are you bringing against this Man?”
2. The word for praetorium, governor's headquarters, and palace all refer to the same location. These same words describe where the Apostle Paul was kept in custody at Herod's Palace or Praetorium (Acts 23:35). The best translation seems to be, palace.
3. Where was Pilate's Palace, also known as Pilate’s Praetorium or headquarters, located? Some believe it was located at the Antonia Fortress. I once thought this as well. However, after much research and considering the archaeological evidence, I now believe the best option is Pilate’s Palace, which is located just south of the Jaffa Gate. Pilate’s Palace was first built and used by King Herod and later used by Pilate and other Roman governors.
4. Herod's Palace Fortress in Jerusalem is located adjacent to the western city wall of Old Jerusalem, in the area now encompassing the Armenian Quarter. It begins at the Kishle building and ends at the present line of the modern (Ottoman period) wall west of Zion Gate. It consisted mainly of two palace wings running north and south and had in the middle of the two ends a large garden. In the area of the Citadel of David and Jaffa Gate, just north of Pilate’s Palace, Herod erected three huge towers for additional protection in case of pending danger. It should be mentioned that Pilate’s Palace was, at first, Herod’s Palace.
5. In the 1970s, the western wall of the city was excavated from the Jaffa Gate to the northwest corner. This particular area was overseen by Magen Broshi and Shimon Gibson. The excavation line can be seen in the wall today by noting where it turns darker. This darker part was covered by dirt until unearthed.
6. If the location of the trial of Jesus took place at Pilate's Palace, then the location of the Via Dolorosa would be different than it is today. You can see in the Google map above where the likely route could have been.
This route would have led Jesus outside the city walls to Calvary (modern-day Church of the Holy Sepulchre). This route is very likely as the Romans afflicted their criminals with maximum humiliation in order to teach others not to do the same. Of course, in the case of Christ, He was fully innocent, and the Jews and the Romans were the true criminals.

Pater Noster Church, Location of the Lords Prayer, Ascension to Heaven - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-31 | youtu.be/tHZib8DvUi8

Pater Noster Church, originally called "Eleona," is where Jesus taught about the Lord's Prayer, end time events, and where it's believed He ascended back to heaven. Take a tour of this place and learn how to pray and walk with God in this video.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:03 - Overview of What We'll See
2:31 - Historical Background Tour
6:39 - Walk Through the Olive Grove Tour
11:07 - Jesus' Teaching on End Times (Matthew 24)
13:52 - A Look at the Lord's Prayer
21-30 - Faith Lesson for Us Today

Location
1. The Church of Pater Noster is located on the top of the Mount of Olives, just below the Chapel of the Ascension.
2. It was first named the Church of Eleona, which means "olive grove." Then, later, in around 1100 AD, its name was changed by the Crusaders to Pater Noster Church, which means "Our Father" because it refers to the beginning of the Lord's Prayer.
3. It is part of a Carmelite Monastery, also known as the Sanctuary of the Eleona (Greek for olive grove).
4. It is the believed place where Christ taught about the Lord's Prayer, gave the Olivet Discourse as found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, and ascended back to heaven as found in Acts 1:9-11.
5. The location of the ascension of Christ to heaven was moved to the top of the Mount of Olives (where the Chapel of Ascension is located today) in the 4th century as it was the believed site it actually took place.

Historical Background
1. Pater Noster means “Our Father” in Latin.
2. Soon after Christ ascended back to heaven, early Christians venerated this site because of its significance.
3. Writing around 318 AD, Eusebius, Bishop of Caesarea, talked about this site.
4. Around 330 AD, a church was commissioned and built by Constantine on the site marked by Helena, the mother of Constantine. It was one of the numerous churches constructed by Constantine, the first Christian Roman emperor.
5. The Byzantine church was built over a cave, which according to tradition, was the place Jesus taught his disciples how to pray.
6. The Persians destroyed the church in 614 AD, but the memory of Jesus’ teaching continued to be associated with it. Some of the Byzantine church remains can be seen in the backyard outside of the present courtyard.
7. When the Crusaders arrived, the site was associated specifically with the Lord's Prayer, so the Crusaders rebuilt part of the church in 1099.
8. In 1851, the remaining stones of the 4th-century church were sold for tombstones in the Valley of Jehoshaphat (Kidron Valley).
9. The site was acquired by Princess Aurelia Bossi de la Tour d'Auvergne (1809–1889) in the second half of the 19th century, and a search for the cave mentioned by early pilgrims began. In 1868, she built a cloister and founded a Carmelite convent in 1872. A convent church was erected in the 1870s.
10. In 1910, the foundations of the ancient church that once stood over the venerated cave were finally found, partly stretching beneath the modern cloister. The convent was moved nearby, and reconstruction of the Byzantine church began in 1915. The half-restored church has the exact dimensions as the original, and the garden outside the three doors outlines the open-aired area.
11. The reconstruction was stopped in 1927 when funds ran out, and the renewed Church of Eleona remains unfinished. The French architect Marcel Favier, who was put in charge of rebuilding the ancient church, arrived in Jerusalem in September 1926.
12. The tomb Princess Aurelia Bossi prepared for herself during her lifetime stands at the entrance of the modern church. She died in Florence in 1889, and her remains were brought to the church in 1957, according to her last wish.
13. The current church is overseen by the Carmelite Cloistered Sisters.
14. It is very likely that Jesus prayed in this vicinity because He had just visited Mary, Martha, and Lazarus’ house in Bethany, a short distance away.
15. Jesus also regularly prayed on mountaintops, so the top of the Mount of Olives would be a natural fit.

Places of Interest
1. The church has 140 large ceramic plaques containing the Lord’s Prayer in many languages.
2. The cave where it is believed Jesus taught about prayer is in an enclosed courtyard in front of the church and down a few stairs. The cave was partially collapsed when discovered in 1910.
3. To the left of the church's south door is an area paved with mosaics and identified as a baptistery.
4. The backyard of the church is where the original Byzantine church was located.
5. The apse of the Byzantine Church can be seen today.
6. Bethany, the town of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.
7. Top of the Mount of Olives
8. Chapel of the Ascension
9. Old City Jerusalem

Mt. Sinai Location, Mountain of Moses, Exodus, Ten Commandments - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-29 | youtu.be/n_VQ7rG638w

Amazing new discoveries that reveal the true location of Mt. Sinai. No stone is left unturned in this documentary.
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See overwhelming evidence of the exodus route the Israelites took from Egypt, the location of the Red Sea Crossing, and the location of Mt. Sinai. The miracles surrounding this story, and the new discoveries that have been found in the last 50 years, reveal that the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing, and Mt. Sinai are much greater than most think. See this video to get the most accurate, and biblical analysis of these events. See places like Nuweiba Port, Marah, Elim, Caves of Jethro, Well of Moses, Rephidim, Altar of Jehovah Nissi, Altar of Moses, Altar of Aaron, Golden Calf Altar, Elijah's Cave, Jabal Maqla, Mount Jebel al Lawz, Al Bad, Massive Graveyard, Split Rock, Rock of Horeb, and more.

Location
1. For many years, it was believed that the Israelites crossed the Suez finger of the Red Sea just southeast of what is now Cairo, Egypt. However, there are no deep bodies of water in these areas but just shallow marshes and lakes. For this reason, the biblical account of this astounding miracle has been attempted to be discredited or erased altogether by liberal scholars.
2. Many recent archeologists and scholars now believe the Israelites crossed the Red Sea at the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea and that Mount Sinai is in Midian, which is part of modern-day Saudi Arabia.

Places and things of Interest:
Moses, Mount Sinai, Egypt, Goshen, Suez Finger of the Red Sea, Traditional Red Sea Crossing Place, Sinai Peninsula, Aqaba Finger of Red Sea, Nuweiba Beach, Saudi Arabia Beach, Red Sea Crossing, Elim, Caves of Jethro, Rephidim, Mount Horeb, Burning Bush, Exodus, Ten Commandments, Golden Calf, Altar of Moses, Israel, Sinai Peninsula, Well of Moses, Saudi Arabia, Al Bad.

Evidence at Mt. Sinai
1. Large area to camp at the base of the mountain.
Exodus 19:2: When they set out from Rephidim, they came to the wilderness of Sinai and camped in the wilderness; and there Israel camped in front of the mountain.
2. Burnt top of the mountain and surrounding mountains.
Exodus 19:18: Now Mount Sinai was all in smoke because the Lord descended upon it in fire; and its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked violently.
3. Plateau partway up the mountain where the seventy elders could have waited while Moses continued up the mountain.
Exodus 24:1: Then He said to Moses, “Come up to the Lord, you and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, and you shall worship at a distance.
4. Altar of Moses at the base of the mountain.
Exodus 24:4: And Moses wrote down all the words of the Lord. Then he got up early in the morning and built an altar [b]at the foot of the mountain with twelve memorial stones for the twelve tribes of Israel.
5. Speaking platform partway up the mountain.
Exodus 24:3: Then Moses came and reported to the people all the words of the Lord and all the ordinances; and all the people answered with one voice and said, “All the words which the Lord has spoken we will do!”
6. Golden Calf Altar.
Exodus 32:1: Now when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down from the mountain, the people assembled around Aaron and said to him, “Come, make us a god who will go before us; for this Moses, the man who brought us up from the land of Egypt—we do not know what happened to him.”
7. Streams of water and dry lakebed at the base of the mountain.
Exodus 32:20: Then he took the calf which they had made and completely burned it with fire, and ground it to powder, and scattered it over the surface of the water and made the sons of Israel drink it.
8. Wells at the base of the mountain.
9. Massive graveyard close by to the mountain.
Exodus 32: So the sons of Levi did as Moses instructed, and about three thousand men of the people fell that day.
10. Cave of Elijah at the mountain.
11. Artifacts found in the area.
Items like a menorah drawing, writings, and footprint drawings all give further evidence that the Israelites were in this area.
12. This area is a designated archaeological site by the Saudi government.
Today, sections of the area, along with the mountain, are fenced off by the Saudi Arabian government and designated as archeological sites. However, there are no excavations permitted on them at this time.
13. Several Jewish, Christian, and Muslim documents dating 600 years before Christ locate Mount Sinai in Midian. Philo and Josephus (Jewish historians) also locate Mount Sinai in Midian of Arabia.

Discovery Tour of Jerusalem Archaeological Davidson Center! Western Wall, Southern Stairs, Kotel

HolyLandSite 2023-07-28 | Discover one of Old City Jerusalem's outstanding sites. See the devastating remains of the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Walk the same Herodian street Jesus walked. See the Trumpeters Stone, the Southern Stair entrance to the Temple Mount, and much more!
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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:47 - Places You'll See on this Tour
2:43 - Ancient Stones, Temple Mount Walls, Robinson's Arch, Isaiah Stone Carving, Trumpeters Stone, Roman Destruction, Herodian Street, Western Wall
15:00 - Southern Stairs, Rabbi Stairs, Huldah Gates, Mikvehs
22:24 - Bible Teaching on Discipleship in Jesus' Time
33:01 - Faith Lesson

Places of Interest
1. Herodian Stones
2. Herod's Temple Mount expansion section
3. Trumpeter's Cornerstone (House of the Trumpeter) The original is in the Israel Museum. This one is an exact replica.
The Jewish historian, Josephus, writes about this in his writings. Three blowings of the trumpet took place: (1) for the farmers to stop their work (2) for the shopkeepers to close down, and (3) for the Sabbath to officially begin (or other holy feasts).
4. Shops
5. Broken Pavement from the stones that fell during the Roman destruction in 70 AD
6. Burnt layers in the Western Wall from the Roman destruction
7. Isaiah Stone
Right under the arch, we can see the so-called "Isaiah Stone." It has a carved inscription in Hebrew with a partial quote or paraphrase of Isaiah 66:14. The carving says: "And them will see, and rejoice your heart, and your bones like grass shall flourish."
The verse they are quoting goes like this: When you see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like grass; the hand of the Lord shall be known to His servants, and His indignation to His enemies.
The inscription has been dated to around 300 to 700 AD and tells us that the Jews at that time venerated the Temple Mount as the location of the temple. It's just another piece of evidence revealing the Temple Mount as the authentic place where the temple once stood.
8. Pilgrim's Road (Herodian St.) led from the Pool of Siloam to the Southern Stairs and Robinson's Arch Stairway area.
9. Southern Stairs
10. Mikvehs by the Southern Stairs
11. Royal Stoa - Large public meeting building on the south side of the Temple Mount just above the Southern Stairs.
12. Southern Stairs entrance doors to the Temple Mount
13. Crusader tower
14. Original stairs
15. Temple Mount
16. City of David

Church of Annunciation & St. Josephs Church Tour, Nazareth - Full Video in the Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-26 | youtu.be/q4Co1S9_sKU

This is an in-depth tour of the Church of the Annunciation & St. Joseph's Church. See where the Angel Gabriel announced to Mary she would be the birth mother of Jesus. See the layers of evidence showing these are the homes of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. Experience the places Jesus grew up and lived during His youth. Learn about life in Nazareth during the time of Christ and lessons from the Bible for us today.
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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:23 - Background About the Church of the Annunciation
6:26 - Beginning of Tour: Outside the Church
7:56 - Tour Inside the Church of the Annunciation
21:32 - Tour Down Into the Grotto Area
25:29 - Tour of the Upper Level of the Church of the Annunciation
26:53 - Tour Outside the Church and Walk to St. Joseph's Church
30:54 - Tour of St. Joseph Church: Home of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus
38:40 - Walk and Look at the Caves Under the Church of the Annunciation
40:03 - Bible Talk About Nazareth, Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and Life in the Time of Jesus
52:47 - Faith Lesson for Us Today

Places of Interest
1. Statue of Mary – Her hands are blackened from people touching them so much.
2. Written in Latin across the facade over the triple-doorway entrance is the Bible verse: “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).
3. The entryway doors to the Church have carvings of significant events in the Old and New Testaments.
4. The current church is a two-story building. The main entrance is on the lower level.
5. On the lower level is the grotto that is believed to be the original home of Mary and the place where the angel Gabriel appeared to her. The following archaeological evidence can be seen here that supports this site as the authentic home of Mary.
Jewish Ritual Bath (Mikveh)
Cave from the Time of Jesus
Mosaic Floor of Judeo-Christian Synagogue
Mosaic of the Crown from the Judeo-Christian Church
Apse & Walls of the Byzantine Church Helena Built
Mosaic Floor Tiles of the Byzantine Church
Behind the Altar are Stairs Leading Down to the Grotto from the Byzantine Church
Crusader Walls
Crusader Pillars
Crusader Apse
6. The words written on an altar table at the front of the grotto mean, “Here the Word was made Flesh.”
7. On each side of the grotto are the remains of earlier churches.
8. The upper level of the basilica serves as the local Roman Catholic parish church.
9. Outside the upper level of the basilica are excavations of buildings during the time of Christ.
10. Outside the lower level of the basilica is a covered area with mosaic panels of many countries from around the world.
11. St. Joseph's Church
Modern Church
Grotto
Mikvah
Cave-home
Steps Down to Home and Workshop
Byzantine Church
Crusader Church

Nazareth In the Bible
1. Nazareth was the home of Joseph and Mary, and the place where the angel Gabriel was sent to announce to the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Christ the Messiah (Luke 1:26-38).

Faith Lesson from the Life of Mary
1. Mary was a righteous person whom God saw would honor and obey Him with the great gift of being the mother of Christ. Are we devoted to God in such a way that He would entrust to us abundant blessings?
2. Mary did not remain a virgin after giving birth to Christ, as many believe. She had many other children, as we can see all throughout Scripture: Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is His mother not called Mary, and His brothers, James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? 56 And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this man acquire all these things?” (Matt. 13:55–56).
Are we students of God’s Word so we believe the truth, or do we follow what our church or others teach instead? Who is our highest authority in what we believe: people or God’s Word?
3. Mary is not to be worshiped like some do but is an example to us of a person of deep faith and obedience. Do we revere and honor Mary, or do we worship her?

Discover the Tombs of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah, & Malachi - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-24 | youtu.be/8oPllQBSauY

Join us on this amazing discovery of the tombs of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, the last three prophets of the Old Testament. Learn about the role of the prophets and how we are called today to be like them.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:16 - The Layout and Explanation of the Tombs
6:40 - Evidence Supporting These Tombs and Being the Authentic Tombs of the Prophets
8:45 - Tour of the Tombs
11:49 - The Role of the Prophets
16:14 - Faith Lesson for Us Today

Location
1. The Tomb of the Prophets is located at the top of the Mount of Olives at the beginning of the Triumphal Entry descent.
2. Just above it is a popular viewing terrace of Old City Jerusalem.

Historical Background
1. The site has 50 burial niches and two adjoining burial caves.
2. According to books, artifacts, inscriptions, and Jewish tradition, the tombs are those of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, who lived in the 6th and 5th centuries BC.
3. Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are the last books of the Old Testament.
4. Both Jews and Christians venerate the site as the tombs of these prophets.
5. Inscriptions indicate that the site was also used for the burial of Christians in the Byzantine period.
6. The property is owned by the Russian Orthodox church but is overseen by a local Arab who lives on top of the tomb.

The Amazing Site Where Jesus Gave the Great Commission on Mt Arbel - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-22 | youtu.be/0hmg3DPl06g

Explore and experience the place where Jesus gave the Great Commission to go into all the world and preach the gospel. See a breathtaking view of the Sea of Galilee and all the sites around it.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:40 - Overview of Mt. Arbel
3:20 - See All the Sites Around the Sea of Galilee
8:25 - The Great Commission Message to Us from the Bible
13:21 - Faith Lessons for Us Today

Location
1. Mount Arbel is located on the west side of the Sea of Galilee and is the tallest mountain around the Sea of Galilee.
2. It has a spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee, which is about 8 miles (12 km.) wide, and about 13 miles (21 km.) long.
3. It rises about 1,200 ft. (365 m.) above the Sea of Galilee.
4. It has on its eastern side a cliff that drops right down to the Sea of Galilee basin.
5. This cliff has many natural caves used throughout history for battles and protection.

Sites Around the Sea of Galilee that Can be Seen from Mt. Arbel
1. Magdala
2. Gennesaret (Ginasor)
3. The area where Christ likely called several of His disciples
4. Chorazin
5. Tabgha - The likely place Christ restored Peter to ministry
6. Mount of Beatitudes
7. Capernaum
8. Bethsaida
9. Bethsaida Lookout
10. Feeding the 5,000
11. Feeding the 4,000
12. Kursi
13. Horvat Susita
14 Where Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea

Places of Interest at Mt. Arbel
1. Park Entrance
2. Lookout location
3. Arbel Cliffs
4. Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages that lie below the cliffs.
5. Ancient Synagogue
6. Fortress
7. Hiking trail

Historical Background
1. History and tradition locate Mount Arbel as the place where Christ gave the Great Commission mandate to go into all the world and preach the gospel.
2. Many theologians believe this is the place because it is the tallest mountain in the area and provides a perfect view of the Sea of Galilee.
3. Because Christ spent around 60% to 70% of His ministry time around the Sea of Galilee, Mount Arbel would have provided the perfect backdrop as Christ gave His disciples the powerful Great Commission mandate.
4. The Great Commission was one of the last contacts Christ had with His disciples, which shows the importance of this commandment.
5. The cliffs of Mount Arbel have natural caves that have been used as shelters for rebels against Herod the Great, revolts against the Romans, and later periods. The ruins of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages lie below the cliffs and on its southwestern side.

Place Jesus Was Condemned to Crucifixion by Pontius Pilate Bible & Faith Lesson! Jerusalem, Israel

HolyLandSite 2023-07-21 | This is a Bible and Faith Lesson filmed at the location where Jesus was condemned to crucifixion by Pontius Pilate. For full video: youtu.be/hNpdU9S3Y3A

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
0:23 - Bible Teaching
17:44 - Faith Lesson

Places of Interest
1. Pilate's Palace Complex
Palace
Courtyard
Soldier Barracks
Stone Walls from the Time of Jesus
2. Dirt Level Before Excavation of This Site
3. Gate Entrance to Pilate’s Palace from Outside the Palace
4. Steps Leading Up to the Gate Entrance to Pilate's Palace
5. Preserved Wall of Herod the Great
6. Preserved Stone Pavement
7. Bema Seat – Judgment Seat
8. Bema Seat Stone
9. Outside Pilate’s Palace – Open Country
10. Jaffa Gate
11. Citadel of David
12. Three Towers Herod Erected
13. House of Caiaphas
14. Likely Route of the True Via Dolorosa
15. Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Location
1. John 18 : 28–29: “Then they brought Jesus from Caiaphas into the Praetorium [governor's headquarters, ESV; palace of the Roman governor, NIV], and it was early; and they themselves did not enter the Praetorium so that they would not be defiled, but might eat the Passover. 29 Therefore Pilate came out to them and said, “What accusation are you bringing against this Man?”
2. The word for praetorium, governor's headquarters, and palace all refer to the same location. These same words describe where the Apostle Paul was kept in custody at Herod's Palace or Praetorium (Acts 23:35). The best translation seems to be, palace.
3. Where was Pilate's Palace, also known as Pilate’s Praetorium or headquarters, located? Some believe it was located at the Antonia Fortress. I once thought this as well. However, after much research and considering the archaeological evidence, I now believe the best option is Pilate’s Palace, which is located just south of the Jaffa Gate. Pilate’s Palace was first built and used by King Herod and later used by Pilate and other Roman governors.
4. Herod's Palace Fortress in Jerusalem is located adjacent to the western city wall of Old Jerusalem, in the area now encompassing the Armenian Quarter. It begins at the Kishle building and ends at the present line of the modern (Ottoman period) wall west of Zion Gate. It consisted mainly of two palace wings running north and south and had in the middle of the two ends a large garden. In the area of the Citadel of David and Jaffa Gate, just north of Pilate’s Palace, Herod erected three huge towers for additional protection in case of pending danger. It should be mentioned that Pilate’s Palace was, at first, Herod’s Palace.
5. In the 1970s, the western wall of the city was excavated from the Jaffa Gate to the northwest corner. This particular area was overseen by Magen Broshi and Shimon Gibson. The excavation line can be seen in the wall today by noting where it turns darker. This darker part was covered by dirt until unearthed.
6. If the location of the trial of Jesus took place at Pilate's Palace, then the location of the Via Dolorosa would be different than it is today. You can see in the Google map above where the likely route could have been.
This route would have led Jesus outside the city walls to Calvary (modern-day Church of the Holy Sepulchre). This route is very likely as the Romans afflicted their criminals with maximum humiliation in order to teach others not to do the same. Of course, in the case of Christ, He was fully innocent, and the Jews and the Romans were the true criminals.

Dead Sea Scrolls Discovery: Amazing Hike to Cave 1, Proof Bible Is True! - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-19 | youtu.be/Xt3J-xvTIHw

Learn the incredible facts about the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran. Take a hike up to Cave 1, where all the discoveries began, and experience it for yourself. We'll cover everything you need to know in this exciting and adventuristic video. Also, learn why the Bible we have today is the same as the one discovered here over 2000 years ago and why you can trust it.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:55 - The Dead Sea Scrolls Discovery
2:41 - Location of the Dead Sea Scrolls (Qumran)
3:07 - Who Wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls (Essenes)?
5:15 - Why Were the Dead Sea Scrolls Hidden?
7:23 - About the Scroll Caves and Their Locations
9:33 - Amazing Hike to Cave 1, Where It All Began
13:01 - Entering & Discovering Inside Cave 1
16:19 - Bible Talk About the Dead Sea Scrolls & the Bible
25:06 - Faith Lessons from the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran

Location
1. Qumran is located on the northwest side of the Dead Sea on Hwy. 90 about 13 miles (21 km.) east of Jerusalem.
2. It’s in the Judean Wilderness, where it’s barren and hot.
3. It’s located 1200 feet (366 m.) below sea level.
4. Its water source comes from the Judean Mountains to the west of the community via an aqueduct.
5. There are many caves in the area.
6. At Qumran, one of the most important discoveries in the history of biblical archaeology took place in around 1947.

Historical Background
1. It’s believed that the ancient settlement of Qumran was established by a Jewish group called the Essenes.
2. They lived here from about 200 BC to around 68 AD.
3. There were around 200 people who inhabited Qumran during its history.
4. The Essenes were a Jewish sect that flourished from the 2nd century BC to the 1st century AD. They were a spiritually devoted group of folks who left Jerusalem because they believed that the priesthood had become corrupted beyond repair and separated themselves to study the Bible, copy it, and seek the Lord in the desert.
5. The Essenes existed in large numbers; thousands lived throughout Judaea. They were fewer in number than the Pharisees and Sadducees (the other two major sects at the time). The Essenes lived in various cities but congregated in communal life dedicated to voluntary poverty, daily immersion, and asceticism. They mainly lived in the surrounding caves or tents just outside the community.
6. They were a strict Torah observant, Messianic, apocalyptic, new covenant Jewish sect. They were led by a priest they called the "Teacher of Righteousness.” They were highly educated and very familiar with writing and study.
7. The Essenes most likely wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls from about 200 BC to 68 AD.
8. It's likely the Essenes stored their copied manuscripts in caves so they were protected from the elements and safe in case of war.

Historical Background of the Dead Sea Scrolls
1. Around 1947, Bedouin shepherds were tending their goats and sheep near the ancient settlement of Qumran. One of the young shepherds threw a rock into a cave and heard an echo sound. He and his friends later climbed into the cave and found a collection of large clay jars, seven of which contained leather and papyrus scrolls. The scrolls would eventually find their way into the hands of archaeologists and scientists.
2. The scrolls were discovered in eleven caves between the years of 1947 and 1956. The manuscripts are numbered according to the caves in which they were found.
3. There are around 972 manuscripts (15,000 fragments) that have been found to date. The longest is 26 feet (8 m.) long.
4. They include fragments from every book of the Old Testament except for the Book of Esther (Esther might have been lost or decomposed due to time or may have been damaged by the Bedouin shepherds).
5. The writings consist of biblical manuscripts and other religious writings that circulated during the Second Temple era (516 BC to 70 AD). About 230 of the manuscripts are referred to as biblical scrolls. However, many of the manuscripts were fragmented and had to be assembled.
6. Cave 4, which is right beside ancient Qumran, had around 75% of all the material from the Qumran caves.
7. The Isaiah Scroll, found relatively intact, is 1,000 years older than any previously known copy of Isaiah, and the other scrolls are the oldest group of Old Testament manuscripts ever found.
8. The major intact manuscripts from Caves 1 and 11 were published by the late fifties and are now housed in the Shrine of the Book Museum in Jerusalem.
9. To date, there are around 53 caves that have been discovered, many of them containing more scrolls.
10. Amazingly, the biblical manuscripts are virtually identical to the manuscripts we have today of the Old Testament part of the Bible. This proves God’s ability to preserve His word through the ages.

Magdala Tour: Hometown & Life of Mary Magdalene, Sea of Galilee, Israel! - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-17 | youtube.com/shorts/PAD-4TNmIAY

Magdala was the hometown of Mary Magdelene, from whom Jesus cast out 7 demons. Take a tour of all the sites of Magdala by the Sea of Galilee. See the latest discoveries and learn about the life of Mary Magdalene, one of Christ's most devoted followers. She was the first one at the tomb after Christ rose from the dead and is mentioned throughout the Gospels. See how her life was drastically changed by Christ and some faith lessons we can learn from here and this site of Magdala!

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:08 - Overview & Synagogue
4:41 - Fish Market Area
5:09 - Residential Area
6:10 - Duc In Altum Center
7:08 - Info About Magdala & Life of Mary Magdalene
19:52 - Faith Lessons for Us Today from the Life of Mary Magdalene

Location
1. Magdala, also known as Migdal, is located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee.
2. It was located on the Via Maris (International Highway linking Africa with Asia and Europe).
Historical Background
1. This particular part of Magdala was recently discovered in 2009. It’s believed a flash flood covered it sometime in the latter part of the 1st Century, as no coins or artifacts were found dating later than 67 AD.
2. It was a fishing village with one of the largest fish markets in the northern Galilee area.
3. It has one of the oldest, most well-preserved synagogues in Israel.
4. This synagogue was in use during the time of Jesus, and He certainly would have preached here on a regular basis.
Matthew 4:23: And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people.
5. On one occasion, Jesus came to this area after feeding 4,000 people on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee.
Matthew 15:38–39: Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. 39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan (Magdala).
6. It had a population of around 1,000–2,000 people during the time of Christ.
7. It had a boat harbor.
8. It has a rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem with detailed carvings showing different aspects of the temple.
9. Magdala was the hometown of the famous Jewish historian, Josephus.
10. It was the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out 7 demons.

Places of Interest
1. Synagogue
2. Beth Midrash (teaching area in the synagogue)
3. Stone with grooves (used for reading the scrolls in the synagogue)
4. A rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem in the synagogue
5. Well-preserved mosaics in the synagogue
6. Scroll storage room in the synagogue
7. Marketplace
8. Fish market area
9. Residential area
10. Mikvahs
11. Harbor
12. Byzantine Monastery
13. Duc In Altum (Latin for "Put out into the deep") is a spiritual center in Magdala in which all can worship. It has a unique Galilean boat as an altar and has a beautiful view behind it of the Sea of Galilee. This center was built in honor of Mary Magdalene. One of its purposes is to honor and support women today.

Capernaum Tour: Town & Ministry Base of Jesus Christ! - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-14 | youtube.com/watch?v=W51GoA9Kds4

In this in-depth tour of Capernaum, learn all about the town of Jesus, which was His ministry base for 3 1/2 years. See the home of Peter and the place where Jesus lived. See the Sea of Galilee, and explore all the sites of interest at Capernaum.
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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:30 - Ministry Trips by Jesus and the Disciples
3:19 - Home of Peter and Jesus | Churches Built Over It to Venerate It
9:50 - Synagogue at Capernaum
17:42 - Exploration of Relics and Historical Findings at Capernaum
25:36 - Homes and Buildings at Capernaum
27:10 - Modern Church at Capernaum
28:23 - Another View of the Home of Peter and Jesus
28:59 - Walk to Seashore | Statue of Peter
30:30 - Bible Teaching About Capernaum
44:10 - Faith Lessons for Us Today from Capernaum

Location
1. Capernaum is located on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee.
2. Capernaum was located on the Via Maris, which was the main international highway of the known world during the time of Christ.
3. Today, Capernaum is shared between two sites. The Franciscan site receives around 90% of visitors as it has the synagogue, Peter’s home, village ruins, ancient artifacts, and access to the beach. The Greek Orthodox site has chosen to remain unexcavated and serene.

Historical Background
1. The name Capernaum is derived from two words, Caper, which means "village," and Naum, which means "rest," and is also from the title, Nahum. Therefore, some believe that the town was named after the Prophet Nahum, and some believe it was simply a place of rest.
2. Capernaum was a fishing village with a population of around 1,000 during the time of Christ. It encompassed what is today both the Franciscan and Greek Orthodox sites.
3. Capernaum became the hometown of Jesus after He moved from his boyhood home of Nazareth. It also became the ministry base of Christ during His ministry on earth (Matthew 4:13–17).
4. Capernaum is mentioned more than any other town around the Sea of Galilee.
5. Capernaum was also the home of Peter, James, Andrew, John, and Matthew.
6. The Synagogue in Capernaum was built by a Roman Centurion of whom Jesus healed his servant.
7. The synagogue that existed during Christ’s time is made from black basalt stone, and its foundations are under the current synagogue, built out of limestone.
8. The current synagogue was built in the 4th century and was quite luxurious and impressive.
9. The home of the Apostle Peter has been identified and now has a large modern church built over it. The location of Peter’s home is certain and has been verified by many substantial archaeological excavations.
10. Greek Orthodox site of Capernaum. This church was built in 1931 and dedicated to the twelve apostles.

Places of Interest
1. The home of Peter and Jesus
2. Village Houses
3. The Synagogue
4. Ancient Artifacts
5. Capernaum Greek Orthodox Site
6. Capernaum National Park

Capernaum in the Bible
1. Christ left Nazareth to live and set up His ministry base in Capernaum (Matthew 4:13-16).
2. Jesus frequently taught in the Synagogue in Capernaum (Mark 1:21–28).
3. Jesus healed Peter’s mother and many others here in Capernaum (Mark 1:29–34).
4. In Capernaum, Jesus forgave and healed a paralyzed man. This likely happened right at the home where Jesus lived (Mark 2:1–5).
5. Christ marveled at the great faith of a centurion in Capernaum (Luke 7:1–10).
6. The Parables of the Kingdom were preached close to Capernaum (Matthew 13:1–3).
7. The miracle of Peter getting money out of the mouth of a fish to pay the temple tax for himself and Jesus happened in Capernaum (Matthew 17:24-27).
8. Jesus called Matthew, the tax collector, close to Capernaum (Matthew 9:9).
9. Capernaum was one of the three towns Christ cursed because of their unbelief in Him (Matthew 11:23–24).

Faith Lesson from Capernaum
1. Christ astonished the large crowds who followed him because He taught with authority. He was completely different from all other teachers because He was God in the flesh. Are we astonished today as we read Christ’s teachings in His Word?
2. Christ healed multitudes of people in and around Capernaum. He also showed He was God as He forgave their sins. Forgiving sins is something only God can do. Do we believe Christ was God in the flesh and full deity?
3. Christ marveled at the great faith of a Roman Centurion. Do we trust God in such a way that He would marvel at our faith?
4. Unfortunately, Christ cursed the town of Capernaum because of their unbelief in Him. After all they had seen, and after many of them had been healed by Jesus, they still were filled with unbelief. Unbelief is, therefore, a sin.

Place Jesus Condemned to Crucifixion by Pontius Pilate! - Full Video in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-07-12 | youtube.com/watch?v=hNpdU9S3Y3A

Is this where Jesus was tried by Pontius Pilate? This place is the best candidate for where the trial of Jesus took place. In the 1970s, excavations in this area uncovered a gold mine archaeologically speaking. Why? Because we have everything biblically and archaeologically, that matches where the trial of Jesus would have taken place, and we're going to be showing you all about it in this video.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:18 - Lower Stone Pavement Discovery
4:24 - Stair and Door Entrance to Pilate's Palace Discovery
6:24 - Original Herodian Stones Discovery
6:59 - Bema Seat Stone Discovery
7:49 - Judgment Bema Seat & Upper Stone Pavement Discovery
8:52 - Inside Pilate's Palace Discovery
10:12 - Future Plans for this Judgment Place Discovery
12:19 - Bible Explanation of Christ's Condemnation to Crucifixion by the Jews and Romans
29:00 - At the House of Caiaphas: Flogging, Night in a Dungeon
31:54 - Christ's Path from Pilate's Palace to Golgotha
34:10 - Faith Lessons for Us Today

Places of Interest
1. Pilate's Palace Complex
Palace
Courtyard
Soldier Barracks
Stone Walls from the Time of Jesus
2. Dirt Level Before Excavation of This Site
3. Gate Entrance to Pilate’s Palace from Outside the Palace
4. Steps Leading Up to the Gate Entrance to Pilate's Palace
5. Preserved Wall of Herod the Great
6. Preserved Stone Pavement
7. Bema Seat – Judgment Seat
8. Bema Seat Stone
9. Outside Pilate’s Palace – Open Country
10. Jaffa Gate
11. Citadel of David
12. Three Towers Herod Erected
13. House of Caiaphas
14. Likely Route of the True Via Dolorosa
15. Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Location
1. John 18:28–29: “Then they brought Jesus from Caiaphas into the Praetorium [governor's headquarters, ESV; palace of the Roman governor, NIV], and it was early; and they themselves did not enter the Praetorium so that they would not be defiled, but might eat the Passover. 29 Therefore Pilate came out to them and said, “What accusation are you bringing against this Man?”
2. The word for praetorium, governor's headquarters, and palace all refer to the same location. These same words describe where the Apostle Paul was kept in custody at Herod's Palace or Praetorium (Acts 23:35). The best translation seems to be, palace.
3. Where was Pilate's Palace, also known as Pilate’s Praetorium or headquarters, located? Some believe it was located at the Antonia Fortress. I once thought this as well. However, after much research and considering the archaeological evidence, I now believe the best option is Pilate’s Palace, which is located just south of the Jaffa Gate. Pilate’s Palace was first built and used by King Herod and later used by Pilate and other Roman governors.
4. Herod's Palace Fortress in Jerusalem is located adjacent to the western city wall of Old Jerusalem, in the area now encompassing the Armenian Quarter. It begins at the Kishle building and ends at the present line of the modern (Ottoman period) wall west of Zion Gate. It consisted mainly of two palace wings running north and south and had in the middle of the two ends a large garden. In the area of the Citadel of David and Jaffa Gate, just north of Pilate’s Palace, Herod erected three huge towers for additional protection in case of pending danger. It should be mentioned that Pilate’s Palace was, at first, Herod’s Palace.
5. In the 1970s, the western wall of the city was excavated from the Jaffa Gate to the northwest corner. This particular area was overseen by Magen Broshi and Shimon Gibson. The excavation line can be seen in the wall today by noting where it turns darker. This darker part was covered by dirt until unearthed.
6. If the location of the trial of Jesus took place at Pilate's Palace, then the location of the Via Dolorosa would be different than it is today. You can see in the Google map above where the likely route could have been.
This route would have led Jesus outside the city walls to Calvary (modern-day Church of the Holy Sepulchre). This route is very likely as the Romans afflicted their criminals with maximum humiliation in order to teach others not to do the same. Of course, in the case of Christ, He was fully innocent, and the Jews and the Romans were the true criminals.

Did the Great Flood Really Happen and How? Is the Bible True? - Full Video in Discription

HolyLandSite 2023-07-10 | youtube.com/watch?v=9f4uF4Va9gI&t=45s

The story of Noah’s Ark is one of the most intriguing stories known to mankind. Is it true, how did it happen, why do many say it's a myth? Click below to support our work in producing more videos:

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:20 - Is there worldwide historical evidence for the Great Flood?
5:07 - Why do many people not believe in the Genesis Great Flood?
10:28 - Why did God flood the whole earth?
11:30 - Did God give the wicked time to repent before flooding the earth?
12:27 - How big was Noah's Ark and how was it built?
15:12 - What did God destroy by the Great Flood?
15:45 - What kind of animals did God save from the Flood?
19:27 - How did the animals come to Noah's Ark?
20:00 - Who closed the door of Noah's Ark?
20:33 - When did the Great Flood begin?
20:59 - Where did the water come from to flood the entire earth?
21:48 - Did the Flood cover the whole earth?
24:06 - How long was there water on the earth and Noah in the Ark?
30:02 - How did the Flood change the earth's climate?
32:23 - Where did all the water go after the Flood?
35:31 - What did Noah do shortly after the Flood?
36:29 - Is there evidence today for the location of Noah's Ark?
39:27 - How does Noah's Ark and the Great Flood apply to us today?

Today, many people believe Noah’s Ark and the Flood are just myths or some altered version of ancient beliefs. Of all the stories in the Bible, Noah’s Ark and the Great Flood is one of the most controversial. Is it all true? Did it really happen? How did it happen? And if it’s true, is there evidence of the Flood and the existence of Noah’s Ark today?

In this video, we’ll be looking at the overwhelming evidence that supports the location of Noah’s Ark. We’ll also end with a faith lesson about what God would desire for us to learn from this event. I really believe this video will be life-changing and transforming to your life.

The Great Flood account is mentioned in writings, or oral traditions found all around the world. In fact, as mentioned, it’s referred to in around 200 accounts like the Gilgamesh Epic account. These flood legends are common across a wide range of cultures, extending back to shortly after the flood account. These accounts depict a flood, sometimes global in scale, usually sent by a deity or deities to destroy civilization as an act of divine judgment. They are found on virtually every continent and share very similar themes. This is so because Noah’s descendants stayed together until God confused their languages at the Tower of Babel, and they scattered as found in Genesis 11.

Places of Interest at the Durupinar Site
1. Noah’s Ark National Park – Located about 17 miles or 28 km. south of Mt. Ararat, about 260 miles or 450 km. west of the Caspian Sea, and about 200 miles or 9(320 km. east of the Black Sea.
2. Noah’s Ark Location
3. Noah’s Ark Visitor Center
4. Drogue – Anchor Stones
5. Noah’s Home
6. Noah’s Altar & Corrals
7. Mountains of Ararat
8. Mount Ararat
9. Wall of Heaven Site
10. Crow Won’t Land Site
11. Village of the Eight
12. Stele
13. Ostracon

The names of the surrounding places affirm this site as Noah’s Ark location.
• Village of the Eight – This village was named after Noah and his family that God saved from the Flood. It used to be called Kazan and today is called Goller.
• Kargaconmaz – Means: The crow or bird won’t land. This refers to Noah letting birds out of the Ark to see if there was dry land.
• Ziyaret Dagi – Means: To make a voluntary pilgrimage. This likely refers to the pilgrimage of Noah and his family aboard the Ark.
• Uzengili Town – This was formerly called Mahser, which means: To be drawn out of the water or judgment day. The name Moses has the same root. In Genesis 10:30, it says regarding the descendants of Noah: Now their settlement extended from Mesha going toward Sephar, the hill country of the east. Mesha shares the same root word as Mahser.
• Mahser Location – This has the same meaning as the town of Uzengili but is the location of the area.
• Nasar – Means: To make a sacrifice. This likely refers to the sacrifices Noah made to God in worship after he and his family were saved from the Flood.
• Yigityatagi – Means: Hero’s anchorage. This refers to the place where the drogue and anchor stones came to rest in this area of the mountains of Ararat.
• Arz-zapt (Arzap) – Means: To capture the earth. In the Semitic version of Arz-zapt, which is Eretz-tsab, means: To cling to the earth. These names are linked to the place where the Ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. The name for this town today is Sagliksuyu and is where some drogue stones, the ruins of Noah’s house, and Noah’s altar are located.

Capernaum Tour: Town & Ministry Base of Jesus Christ! Home of Apostle Peter, Sea of Galilee, Israel!

HolyLandSite 2023-07-07 | In this in-depth tour of Capernaum, learn all about the town of Jesus, which was His ministry base for 3 1/2 years. See the home of Peter and the place where Jesus lived. See the Sea of Galilee, and explore all the sites of interest at Capernaum.
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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:30 - Ministry Trips by Jesus and the Disciples
3:19 - Home of Peter and Jesus | Churches Built Over It to Venerate It
9:50 - Synagogue at Capernaum
17:42 - Exploration of Relics and Historical Findings at Capernaum
25:36 - Homes and Buildings at Capernaum
27:10 - Modern Church at Capernaum
28:23 - Another View of the Home of Peter and Jesus
28:59 - Walk to Seashore | Statue of Peter
30:30 - Bible Teaching About Capernaum
44:10 - Faith Lessons for Us Today from Capernaum

Location
1. Capernaum is located on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee.
2. Capernaum was located on the Via Maris, which was the main international highway of the known world during the time of Christ.
3. Today, Capernaum is shared between two sites. The Franciscan site receives around 90% of visitors as it has the synagogue, Peter’s home, village ruins, ancient artifacts, and access to the beach. The Greek Orthodox site has chosen to remain unexcavated and serene.

Historical Background
1. The name Capernaum is derived from two words, Caper, which means "village," and Naum, which means "rest," and is also from the title, Nahum. Therefore, some believe that the town was named after the Prophet Nahum, and some believe it was simply a place of rest.
2. Capernaum was a fishing village with a population of around 1,000 during the time of Christ. It encompassed what is today both the Franciscan and Greek Orthodox sites.
3. Capernaum became the hometown of Jesus after He moved from his boyhood home of Nazareth. It also became the ministry base of Christ during His ministry on earth (Matthew 4:13–17).
4. Capernaum is mentioned more than any other town around the Sea of Galilee.
5. Capernaum was also the home of Peter, James, Andrew, John, and Matthew.
6. The Synagogue in Capernaum was built by a Roman Centurion of whom Jesus healed his servant.
7. The synagogue that existed during Christ’s time is made from black basalt stone, and its foundations are under the current synagogue, built out of limestone.
8. The current synagogue was built in the 4th century and was quite luxurious and impressive.
9. The home of the Apostle Peter has been identified and now has a large modern church built over it. The location of Peter’s home is certain and has been verified by many substantial archaeological excavations.
10. Greek Orthodox site of Capernaum. This church was built in 1931 and dedicated to the twelve apostles.

Places of Interest
1. The home of Peter and Jesus
2. Village Houses
3. The Synagogue
4. Ancient Artifacts
5. Capernaum Greek Orthodox Site
6. Capernaum National Park

Capernaum in the Bible
1. Christ left Nazareth to live and set up His ministry base in Capernaum (Matthew 4:13-16).
2. Jesus frequently taught in the Synagogue in Capernaum (Mark 1:21–28).
3. Jesus healed Peter’s mother and many others here in Capernaum (Mark 1:29–34).
4. In Capernaum, Jesus forgave and healed a paralyzed man. This likely happened right at the home where Jesus lived (Mark 2:1–5).
5. Christ marveled at the great faith of a centurion in Capernaum (Luke 7:1–10).
6. The Parables of the Kingdom were preached close to Capernaum (Matthew 13:1–3).
7. The miracle of Peter getting money out of the mouth of a fish to pay the temple tax for himself and Jesus happened in Capernaum (Matthew 17:24-27).
8. Jesus called Matthew, the tax collector, close to Capernaum (Matthew 9:9).
9. Capernaum was one of the three towns Christ cursed because of their unbelief in Him (Matthew 11:23–24).

Faith Lesson from Capernaum
1. Christ astonished the large crowds who followed him because He taught with authority. He was completely different from all other teachers because He was God in the flesh. Are we astonished today as we read Christ’s teachings in His Word?
2. Christ healed multitudes of people in and around Capernaum. He also showed He was God as He forgave their sins. Forgiving sins is something only God can do. Do we believe Christ was God in the flesh and full deity?
3. Christ marveled at the great faith of a Roman Centurion. Do we trust God in such a way that He would marvel at our faith?
4. Unfortunately, Christ cursed the town of Capernaum because of their unbelief in Him. After all they had seen, and after many of them had been healed by Jesus, they still were filled with unbelief. Unbelief is, therefore, a sin. Do we have unbelief in Christ and who He claimed to be? Do we also have unbelief in trusting Him in our daily lives when things don’t seem to make sense?

Mystic Dead Sea Tour: Full Video in Description - Dead Sea Scrolls, Beaches, Jericho, Jesus Baptism

HolyLandSite 2023-07-06 | youtube.com/watch?v=owOi0XDuAf8&t=468s

In this video, we'll explore amazing facts about the Dead Sea, its history, future, and sites of interest. We'll look at epic events and prophecies from the Bible, tour the beaches, see the remains of Sodom and Gomorrah, hike to the cave where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, see majestic Masada, see the place where Jesus was baptized, Jericho, and much more.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:43 - Video Outline
2:24 - Interesting Facts
11:13 - Dead Sea Tour Outline
12:22 - Ancient Cities of the Dead Sea
15:12 - Sodom & Gomorrah
23:48 - Jericho
32:46 - Jordan River Crossing Into the Promised Land
33:52 - Baptismal Site of Jesus
34:34 - Judean Desert
35:40 - Seven Dead Sea Beaches
39:46 - Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran
43:54 - Hike to Dead Sea Scrolls Cave 1
49:14 - Avnat: Epic Bible Prophecies About the Dead Sea's Future
52:47 - En Gedi
56:47 - Masada
1:08:50 - Things We Can Learn (Faith Lesson)

Sites of Interest:
Sodom & Gomorrah
Masada
Dead Sea Scrolls
Jericho
Baptismal Site of Jesus (Qsar al-Yahud)
Dead Sea Northern Beaches
Dead Sea Southern Beaches
Qumran
En Gedi
Ein Bokek
Lot's Wife
Sphinx
Pyramid
Zoar
Admah
Zeboiim
Judean Desert
Jordan River Inlet
Avnat (Kidron Valley Drainage from Jerusalem)
Dead Sea Sink Holes
Dead Sea Mineral Factories
Dead Sea Mud

The Dead Sea in the Bible
There are many mentions of the Dead Sea in the Bible, and it has long been associated with mysticism, wonderment, and religious significance.
1. It appears the area around the Dead Sea was lush and well-watered before God destroyed the area with fire and brimstone (Genesis 13:10).
2. It appears that after God destroyed the area, it changed to the state it is today, a dry, barren desert (Deuteronomy 29:23).
3. It is referenced often to describe the borders of Israel (Numbers 34:12).
4. It was a densely populated area during the time of Abraham before God destroyed the area (Genesis 14:1-3).
5. Sodom and Gomorrah, along with the other cities of the valley, were wicked, sinful people (Genesis 18:20–21).
6. God destroys Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:23–29).
7. The slopes of Mount Sodom are located in the southeast corner of the Dead Sea, and they feature salt formations that look like pillars – which are traditionally referred to as Lot’s wife.
8. The Bible talks about how this area will change during the Millennial Reign of Christ on earth after the Great Tribulation Period (Ezekiel 47:7-11; Zechariah 14:8-9).

Moses, Exodus Route from Egypt, Red Sea Crossing, Mt. Sinai Location in Arabia, Ten Commandments

HolyLandSite 2023-07-04 | See the miraculous events of the Exodus route the Israelites took from Egypt, the location of the Red Sea Crossing, and the location of Mt. Sinai.

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This video uses the Bible and new evidence and discoveries to bring this foundational biblical event to life. The miracles surrounding this story, and the new discoveries that have been found in the last 50 years, reveal that the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing and Mt. Sinai are much greater than most think. See this video to get the most accurate, and biblical analysis of these events. See places like Succoth, Elam, Wilderness of Sin, Nuweiba Port, Marah, Elim, Caves of Jethro, Rephidim, Altar of Jehovah Nissi, Altar of Moses, Altar of Aaron, Elijah's Cave, Mount Jebel al Lawz, and more.

Location
1. For many years it was believed that the Israelites crossed the Suez finger of the Red Sea just southeast of what is now Cairo, Egypt. However, there are no deep bodies of water in these areas but just shallow marshes and lakes. For this reason, the biblical account of this astounding miracle has been attempted to be discredited or erased altogether by liberal scholars.
2. Many recent archeologists and scholars now believe the Israelites crossed the Red Sea at the Aqaba finger of the Red Sea and that Mount Sinai is in Midian, which is part of modern-day Saudi Arabia.
Historical Background
1. God called Abraham and promised him He would make a great nation out of his offspring. Abraham obeyed and left everything to follow God.
2. Abraham birthed Isaac, who birthed Jacob, who birthed 12 sons. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel.
3. Jacob and his 12 sons moved to Egypt according to God’s sovereign plan (about 70–75 total people).
4. The Israelites spent 430 years in Egypt (30 years as free people under Joseph, and 400 years as slaves). During this time, they grew into a nation of around 2.5 to 3 million people.
5. God performed a miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt by performing 10 amazing miracles.
6. The last miracle, known as the Passover, happened when God killed the firstborn of all the Egyptians who did not put the blood of a lamb over the doorposts of their homes.
Places and things of Interest:
Moses, Mount Sinai, Egypt, Goshen, Suez Finger of the Red Sea, Traditional Red Sea Crossing Place, Sinai Peninsula, Aqaba Finger of Red Sea, Nuweiba Beach, Saudi Arabia Beach, Red Sea Crossing, Elim, Caves of Jethro, Rephidim, Mount Horeb, Burning Bush, Exodus, Ten Commandments, Golden Calf, Altar of Moses, Israel, Sinai Peninsula, Well of Moses, Saudi Arabia, Al Bad, Exodus chapter one, Exodus chapter two, Exodus chapter 3, Exodus chapter 4, Exodus chapter 5, Exodus chapter 6, Exodus chapter 7, Exodus chapter 8, Exodus chapter 9, Exodus chapter 10, Exodus chapter 11, Exodus chapter 12, Exodus chapter 13, Exodus chapter 14, Exodus chapter 15, Exodus chapter 16, Exodus chapter 17, Exodus chapter 18, Exodus chapter 19, Exodus chapter 20

Places of Interest
1. Egypt
2. Goshen
3. Suez Finger of the Red Sea
4. Traditional Red Sea Crossing Place
5. Sinai Peninsula
6. Aqaba Finger of Red Sea
7. Nuweiba Beach
8. Saudi Arabia Beach
9. Red Sea Crossing
10. Marah
11. Elim
12. Magna Oasis
13. Wilderness of Sin
14. Caves of Jethro
15. Rephidim
16. Mount Sinai

Faith Lesson from the Exodus, Red Sea Crossing, and Mount Sinai
1. The deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt was done to show several deep theological truths.
To show God’s power and glory (He is above all gods and is the only true God).
To be a foreshadow of salvation and deliverance (God can save and deliver us as He did the Israelites).
To teach His chosen people how to follow and obey Him.
To show his power and glory to the other nations.
2. The important thing to realize is that the location of the events of the Exodus, Red Sea crossing, and Mount Sinai are not the determining factor for whether the Bible is true or not. However, this evidence does strengthen our faith to know the events spoken of in Scripture are true and historical.
3. The miracles surrounding the Exodus, Red Sea crossing, and Mount Sinai are some of the greatest miracles found in Scripture.
4. All of this should inspire us to trust and obey God more fully.

Ancient Shiloh Tour: Tabernacle, Joshua, Samuel, Hannah, Ark of Covenant, Israel, Canaanite, Samaria

HolyLandSite 2023-06-30 | Explore ancient Shiloh. This in-depth tour leaves no stone uncovered. Learn everything you need to know. Learn about the location, sites of interest, history, Bible talk, and faith lessons. Shiloh was the main spiritual center of Israel during much of the Old Testament.
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BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:26 - Olive Press
3:44 - Living Water
5:05 - History
7:06 - Hologram of Tabernacle
8:11 - History
10:26 - History of Churches at Shiloh
14:18 - Archaeological Interview with Dr. Scott Stripling
21:16 - Movie at the Observation Tower
22:33 - Tabernacle Location
29:41 - Storehouses & Archaeological Dig
33:43 - Maps Explanation, Historical Background
42:16 - Olive Press Explanation
44:25 - Bible Talk
52:49 - Faith Lesson

Location
1. Shiloh is about 20 miles (32 km.) north of Jerusalem.
2. It was on a major north-south travel route that linked Beersheba in the south to Shechem and the northern cities of Israel.
3. It had hills surrounding it, so when the nation gathered at Shiloh for feasts, they could camp around it and partake in the events. As a result, many pieces of pottery have been found on the hills around Shiloh.
4. Tel Shiloh is at an archaeological park called "Ancient Shiloh," located at the entrance to modern-day Shiloh.
5. Shiloh was in the hill country of Samaria within the tribal allotment of Ephraim.
6. It was likely chosen as Israel's capital and military base due to its central location within the country.

Historical Background
1. Shiloh was the religious and military capital of Israel during the times of the Judges, and the Tabernacle resided here for 369 years.
2. It was the first place where the Tabernacle became a permanent structure.
3. The Ark of the Covenant resided here within the Tabernacle.
4. Three churches were built during the Byzantine Period to commemorate Shiloh.
5. A Mosque was built on the west side of the ruins of the first two 4th-century Byzantine churches.

Places of Interest
1. Oil Press
2. Building with Hologram of the Tabernacle
3. 6th-century Byzantine Church
4. Byzantine Church Ruins (4th-century church has the Shiloh inscription)
5. Mosque built over Byzantine Churches
6. Stone of four-horned altar
7. Baptistry
6. Visitor Tower
7. Tabernacle Location
8. Cisterns
9. Storerooms
10. Canaanite Wall
11. Winepress

Shiloh In the Bible
1. During the conquest of the Promised Land (7-year period), the Tabernacle resided principally at Gilgal (Josh. 4:19–24).
2. After the conquest of the land was basically complete, the Tabernacle was set up in Shiloh, where it would reside for 369 years (Joshua 18:1).
3. At Shiloh, lots were cast to divide the land among the 7 tribes who had not yet received their inheritance on the west side of the Jordan River (Joshua 18:2–3).
4. From Shiloh, Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh departed for their homes east of the Jordan River (Joshua 22:9).
5. After departing from Shiloh to return home, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar at the Jordan River. The rest of the tribes misunderstood their purpose for the altar and met at Shiloh to go and fight against them.
Joshua 22:12: And when the people of Israel heard of it, the whole assembly of the people of Israel gathered at Shiloh to make war against them.
6. During a dark time in the book of Judges, the Benjamite tribe was almost wiped out by the other tribes of Israel because of their severe disobedience to God. To revive the population of Benjamin, wives were provided for them at Shiloh (Judges 21:19–21).
7. At Shiloh, Hannah prayed for a son. God heard her prayers and blessed her with Samuel (1 Samuel 1:3–5).
8. The sanctuary in Shiloh was called a "temple," as noted in 1 Samuel 1:9, 3:3. It had doorposts and doors, as seen in 1 Samuel 1:9, 3:15. It was, therefore, a more durable structure than the old Tent of Meeting (tabernacle).
9. Eli and his wicked sons presided over the Tabernacle at Shiloh. Then, through the prophet Samuel, the doom of their house was announced (1 Samuel 3:11–13).
10. In a battle with the Philistines, the ark was captured. As a result, the fall of Hophni and Phinehas and the death of Eli happened near Shiloh (1 Samuel 4:16–18).
11. The Ark of the Covenant was returned to Beth Shemesh by the Philistines and ended up staying at Abinadab's house for 20 years (1 Sam. 7:1).
12. Eventually, King David would take the ark to the City of David (1 Chron. 13, 15), and then it would be moved to the temple Solomon built (2 Chron. 5:2).
13. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Jeroboam, King of the Northern Tribes, erected golden calf altars in Bethel and Dan for the worship of false gods. Over time, Shiloh fell into ruins and came under judgment from God (Psalm 78:59–61; Jeremiah 7:12).

Is This the True Location of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem? Watch Full Video, Link in Description

HolyLandSite 2023-06-28 | Watch Full Video Here: youtube.com/watch?v=WgCOoQbK2CM
This video provides the most comprehensive and complete evidence that proves the original temple of Solomon, and the rebuilt temples of Zerubbabel and Herod the Great, were located on the Temple Mount, exactly where the Dome of the Rock is today. Today, some are promoting the theory that the Temple was in the City of David and that the Temple Mount was a Roman Fort. We will answer each of their arguments with facts, the Bible, archeology, and eyewitness accounts.

Did You Know These Amazing Things About the Sea of Galilee?

HolyLandSite 2023-06-26 | Experience the Sea of Galilee in person. Take a boat ride on the sea, fly high above in a drone, walk the paths of Jesus, and see all the hidden gems.

Sea of Galilee, Mount Arbel, Magdala, Ginasor, Tel Chinnereth, Tabgha, Church of the Multiplication, Primacy of Peter, Job's Spring, Monumental Rocks, Mount of Beatitudes, Sower's Cove, Chorazin, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Gamla, Feeding the 5,000, Kursi (Demon-Possessed Men Healed), Horvat Susita, Hippos, Southern End of Sea of Galilee, Yardenit, Baptismal Site, Outlet of Jordon River, Tiberias, Modern-Day Tiberias, Waterfront, Promenade

Ashkelon Uncovered Tour: Oldest Canaanite Gate (4000 Years) in the World, Philistine, Israelite City

HolyLandSite 2023-06-23 | Amazing discovery of the oldest Canaanite Gate in the world. Learn about the location, history, sites, places of interest, and things from the Bible that took place at Ashkelon.
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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:28 - Location
2:13 - Historical Background
4:41 - Sites of Interest
8:36 - Ashkelon in the Bible
11:20 - Faith Lesson from Ashkelon

Location
1. Ashkelon is located just south of Ashdod. It also is on the Mediterranean Ocean and was one of the five cities of the Philistines.

Historical Background
1. South of the modern city of Ashkelon is a large National park with ruins of the ancient city. It has a history of 4,000 years and was a port city located on the main trade route from Egypt to the North. It started as a huge fortified Canaanite city and continued as a Philistine city, turning into a thriving commercial center and independent city during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
2. The origin of the name Ashkelon appears to come from the word “shekel,” denoting a measure of weight – a fitting name for a commercial port city.
3. The specific name Ashkelon is mentioned in the Egyptian execration texts of the 19th century BC, and it appears again in other, later Egyptian inscriptions.
4. Ashkelon has the world's oldest Canaanite Gate in the world which dates back to almost 4000 years ago.
5. Ashkelon also played a part in the battle against the Assyrians. Zedaka, the ruler of Ashkelon, joined the rebellion of Hezekiah, king of Judah (701 BCE). In response, Sennacherib, king of Assyria, took over the city and replaced the treacherous ruler with one of his subjects.
6. The city changed hands many times after that, as Greeks and Maccabees and Romans and Muslims and Crusaders all had their turn. Some think that Herod the Great was born in Ashkelon; the fact is that he did build a palace and aqueduct there.
7. The Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, who came to the city later, was less merciful. In 604 BC, he deported Aga, the last Philistine king of Ashkelon, and razed the city to the ground.
8. During the Persian period, Ashkelon was a prosperous commercial city under the auspices of the port cities of Tyre and Sidon.
9. It was used as a border fortress by the Crusaders from around 1100-1191 AD. However, Saladin destroyed the Ashkelon fortress in AD 1191 (during the end of the Crusader Period). As a result, the city lay in ruins for a century. This basically ended its history.
10. After this time, a town was built by Arabs near the original site of Ashkelon and called Al-Majdal.
11. Today, a large national park beautifully preserves the history of ancient Ashkelon. It's well worth a visit if you have a chance to see it.

Places of Interest
1. The Canaanite Gate
2. The Rampart
3. Medieval Walls
4. The Roman Basilica
5. St. Mary Viridis Church
6. Wells: Within the national park, there are 67 wells, the majority of them from the Byzantine period.
7. Natural sand dunes and landscapes.

Ashkelon in the Bible
1. Joshua and the Israelites conquered Ashkelon in the conquest of the Promised Land (Josh. 13:3), and it was allotted to Judah, who then occupied it (Judg. 1:18).
2. One of the golden tumors (emerods) that was returned with the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines was from Ashkelon.1 Samuel 6:17: Now these are the gold tumors which the Philistines returned as a guilt offering to the Lord: one for Ashdod, one for Gaza, one for Ashkelon, one for Gath, and one for Ekron.
3. Askelon is mentioned by David when, after Saul and Jonathan die, he lamented and mourned over them.
2 Samuel 1:19-20: Your beauty, Israel, is slaughtered on your high places! How the mighty have fallen! 20 Tell it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon, or the daughters of the Philistines will rejoice, the daughters of the uncircumcised will celebrate.
4. Ashkelon was also denounced by Jeremiah (Jer. 25:20, 47:5–7), Zephaniah (2:4–7), and Zechariah (9:5).

Faith Lesson from Ashkelon
1. God used the Philistines to punish the Israelites because they turned away from Him and followed false gods. In the same way, God often uses people in our lives to get us back on track with the Lord when we stray.
2. God judged the city of Ashkelon and held them accountable for their sins. In the same way, God will hold those who reject Him accountable today as well. We will all stand before God and give an account for our lives.
3. What about us? Are we right with God and letting our lights shine to a world that needs God and His salvation through Jesus Christ?

Church of Annunciation & St. Josephs Church Tour, Homes of Mary, Joseph, & Jesus Revealed, Nazareth

HolyLandSite 2023-06-16 | This is an in-depth tour of the Church of the Annunciation & St. Joseph's Church. See where the Angel Gabriel announced to Mary she would be the birth mother of Jesus. See the layers of evidence showing these are the homes of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. Experience the places Jesus grew up and lived during His youth. Learn about life in Nazareth during the time of Christ and lessons from the Bible for us today.
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BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:23 - Background About the Church of the Annunciation
6:26 - Beginning of Tour: Outside the Church
7:56 - Tour Inside the Church of the Annunciation
21:32 - Tour Down Into the Grotto Area
25:29 - Tour of the Upper Level of the Church of the Annunciation
26:53 - Tour Outside the Church and Walk to St. Joseph's Church
30:54 - Tour of St. Joseph Church: Home of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus
38:40 - Walk and Look at the Caves Under the Church of the Annunciation
40:03 - Bible Talk About Nazareth, Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and Life in the Time of Jesus
52:47 - Faith Lesson for Us Today

Places of Interest
1. Statue of Mary – Her hands are blackened from people touching them so much.
2. Written in Latin across the facade over the triple-doorway entrance is the Bible verse: “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).
3. The entryway doors to the Church have carvings of significant events in the Old and New Testaments.
4. The current church is a two-story building. The main entrance is on the lower level.
5. On the lower level is the grotto that is believed to be the original home of Mary and the place where the angel Gabriel appeared to her. The following archaeological evidence can be seen here that supports this site as the authentic home of Mary.
Jewish Ritual Bath (Mikveh)
Cave from the Time of Jesus
Mosaic Floor of Judeo-Christian Synagogue
Mosaic of the Crown from the Judeo-Christian Church
Apse & Walls of the Byzantine Church Helena Built
Mosaic Floor Tiles of the Byzantine Church
Behind the Altar are Stairs Leading Down to the Grotto from the Byzantine Church
Crusader Walls
Crusader Pillars
Crusader Apse
6. The words written on an altar table at the front of the grotto mean, “Here the Word was made Flesh.”
7. On each side of the grotto are the remains of earlier churches.
8. The upper level of the basilica serves as the local Roman Catholic parish church.
9. Outside the upper level of the basilica are excavations of buildings during the time of Christ.
10. Outside the lower level of the basilica is a covered area with mosaic panels of many countries from around the world.
11. St. Joseph's Church
Modern Church
Grotto
Mikvah
Cave-home
Steps Down to Home and Workshop
Byzantine Church
Crusader Church

Nazareth In the Bible
1. Nazareth was the home of Joseph and Mary, and the place where the angel Gabriel was sent to announce to the Virgin Mary that she would be the mother of Christ the Messiah (Luke 1:26-38).

Faith Lesson from the Life of Mary
1. Mary was a righteous person whom God saw would honor and obey Him with the great gift of being the mother of Christ. Are we devoted to God in such a way that He would entrust to us abundant blessings?
2. Mary did not remain a virgin after giving birth to Christ, as many believe. She had many other children, as we can see all throughout Scripture: Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is His mother not called Mary, and His brothers, James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? 56 And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this man acquire all these things?” (Matt. 13:55–56).
Are we students of God’s Word so we believe the truth, or do we follow what our church or others teach instead? Who is our highest authority in what we believe: people or God’s Word?
3. Mary is not to be worshiped like some do but is an example to us of a person of deep faith and obedience. Do we revere and honor Mary, or do we worship her?

Dead Sea Scrolls Discovery: Amazing Hike to Cave 1, Qumran Tour, The Essenes, Proof Bible Is True!

HolyLandSite 2023-05-25 | Learn the incredible facts about the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran. Take a hike up to Cave 1, where all the discoveries began, and experience it for yourself. We'll cover everything you need to know in this exciting and adventuristic video. Also, learn why the Bible we have today is the same as the one discovered here over 2000 years ago and why you can trust it.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:55 - The Dead Sea Scrolls Discovery
2:41 - Location of the Dead Sea Scrolls (Qumran)
3:07 - Who Wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls (Essenes)?
5:15 - Why Were the Dead Sea Scrolls Hidden?
7:23 - About the Scroll Caves and Their Locations
9:33 - Amazing Hike to Cave 1, Where It All Began
13:01 - Entering & Discovering Inside Cave 1
16:19 - Bible Talk About the Dead Sea Scrolls & the Bible
25:06 - Faith Lessons from the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran

Location
1. Qumran is located on the northwest side of the Dead Sea on Hwy. 90 about 13 miles (21 km.) east of Jerusalem.
2. It’s in the Judean Wilderness, where it’s barren and hot.
3. It’s located 1200 feet (366 m.) below sea level.
4. Its water source comes from the Judean Mountains to the west of the community via an aqueduct.
5. There are many caves in the area.
6. At Qumran, one of the most important discoveries in the history of biblical archaeology took place in around 1947.

Historical Background
1. It’s believed that the ancient settlement of Qumran was established by a Jewish group called the Essenes.
2. They lived here from about 200 BC to around 68 AD.
3. There were around 200 people who inhabited Qumran during its history.
4. The Essenes were a Jewish sect that flourished from the 2nd century BC to the 1st century AD. They were a spiritually devoted group of folks who left Jerusalem because they believed that the priesthood had become corrupted beyond repair and separated themselves to study the Bible, copy it, and seek the Lord in the desert.
5. The Essenes existed in large numbers; thousands lived throughout Judaea. They were fewer in number than the Pharisees and Sadducees (the other two major sects at the time). The Essenes lived in various cities but congregated in communal life dedicated to voluntary poverty, daily immersion, and asceticism. They mainly lived in the surrounding caves or tents just outside the community.
6. They were a strict Torah observant, Messianic, apocalyptic, new covenant Jewish sect. They were led by a priest they called the "Teacher of Righteousness.” They were highly educated and very familiar with writing and study.
7. The Essenes most likely wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls from about 200 BC to 68 AD.
8. It's likely the Essenes stored their copied manuscripts in caves so they were protected from the elements and safe in case of war.

Historical Background of the Dead Sea Scrolls
1. Around 1947, Bedouin shepherds were tending their goats and sheep near the ancient settlement of Qumran. One of the young shepherds threw a rock into a cave and heard an echo sound. He and his friends later climbed into the cave and found a collection of large clay jars, seven of which contained leather and papyrus scrolls. The scrolls would eventually find their way into the hands of archaeologists and scientists.
2. The scrolls were discovered in eleven caves between the years of 1947 and 1956. The manuscripts are numbered according to the caves in which they were found.
3. There are around 972 manuscripts (15,000 fragments) that have been found to date. The longest is 26 feet (8 m.) long.
4. They include fragments from every book of the Old Testament except for the Book of Esther (Esther might have been lost or decomposed due to time or may have been damaged by the Bedouin shepherds).
5. The writings consist of biblical manuscripts and other religious writings that circulated during the Second Temple era (516 BC to 70 AD). About 230 of the manuscripts are referred to as biblical scrolls. However, many of the manuscripts were fragmented and had to be assembled.
6. Cave 4, which is right beside ancient Qumran, had around 75% of all the material from the Qumran caves.
7. The Isaiah Scroll, found relatively intact, is 1,000 years older than any previously known copy of Isaiah, and the other scrolls are the oldest group of Old Testament manuscripts ever found.
8. The major intact manuscripts from Caves 1 and 11 were published by the late fifties and are now housed in the Shrine of the Book Museum in Jerusalem.
9. To date, there are around 53 caves that have been discovered, many of them containing more scrolls.
10. Amazingly, the biblical manuscripts are virtually identical to the manuscripts we have today of the Old Testament part of the Bible. This proves God’s ability to preserve His word through the ages.

Mystic Dead Sea Tour: Masada, Dead Sea Scrolls, Beaches, Jericho, Jesus Baptism, Sodom & Gomorrah

HolyLandSite 2023-03-31 | In this video, we'll explore amazing facts about the Dead Sea, its history, future, and sites of interest. We'll look at epic events and prophecies from the Bible, tour the beaches, see the remains of Sodom and Gomorrah, hike to the cave where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, see majestic Masada, see the place where Jesus was baptized, Jericho, and much more.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:43 - Video Outline
2:24 - Interesting Facts
11:13 - Dead Sea Tour Outline
12:22 - Ancient Cities of the Dead Sea
15:12 - Sodom & Gomorrah
23:48 - Jericho
32:46 - Jordan River Crossing Into the Promised Land
33:52 - Baptismal Site of Jesus
34:34 - Judean Desert
35:40 - Seven Dead Sea Beaches
39:46 - Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran
43:54 - Hike to Dead Sea Scrolls Cave 1
49:14 - Avnat: Epic Bible Prophecies About the Dead Sea's Future
52:47 - En Gedi
56:47 - Masada
1:08:50 - Things We Can Learn (Faith Lesson)

Sites of Interest:
Sodom & Gomorrah
Masada
Dead Sea Scrolls
Jericho
Baptismal Site of Jesus (Qsar al-Yahud)
Dead Sea Northern Beaches
Dead Sea Southern Beaches
Qumran
En Gedi
Ein Bokek
Lot's Wife
Sphinx
Pyramid
Zoar
Admah
Zeboiim
Judean Desert
Jordan River Inlet
Avnat (Kidron Valley Drainage from Jerusalem)
Dead Sea Sink Holes
Dead Sea Mineral Factories
Dead Sea Mud

The Dead Sea in the Bible
There are many mentions of the Dead Sea in the Bible, and it has long been associated with mysticism, wonderment, and religious significance.
1. It appears the area around the Dead Sea was lush and well-watered before God destroyed the area with fire and brimstone (Genesis 13:10).
2. It appears that after God destroyed the area, it changed to the state it is today, a dry, barren desert (Deuteronomy 29:23).
3. It is referenced often to describe the borders of Israel (Numbers 34:12).
4. It was a densely populated area during the time of Abraham before God destroyed the area (Genesis 14:1-3).
5. Sodom and Gomorrah, along with the other cities of the valley, were wicked, sinful people (Genesis 18:20–21).
6. God destroys Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:23–29).
7. The slopes of Mount Sodom are located in the southeast corner of the Dead Sea, and they feature salt formations that look like pillars – which are traditionally referred to as Lot’s wife.
8. The Bible talks about how this area will change during the Millennial Reign of Christ on earth after the Great Tribulation Period (Ezekiel 47:7-11; Zechariah 14:8-9).

Is This the Location of Pentecost? Must See Evidence! Pentecost Explained, Feast of Weeks, Shavuot

HolyLandSite 2023-02-18 | See and understand Pentecost like never before. See the evidence of where it happened and how. Pentecost, also known as the Feast of Weeks, Festival of Weeks, and Shavuot. This is a biblically based video that will help you understand all about this amazing and monumental event.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:04 - Meaning of Pentecost & Some Evidence of Where Pentecost Happened.
5:01 - Interesting Facts about Pentecost
6:15 - Pentecost & Entrances to the Temple Mount
7:32 - Summary of Pentecost Meaning
8:46 - Evidence Showing the Biblical Place of Pentecost
18:33 - Pentecost Explained in Detail
30:07 - Faith Lessons about Pentecost for Us Today
36:00 Outro

Places of Interest
1. Temple Mount
2. Royal Stoa – Location close to where Pentecost likely took place.
3. Archaeological, historical, and eyewitness accounts place the location of the first and second temples directly on top of the Dome of the Rock.
4. Solomon's Portico
5. Western Wall
6. Eastern Gate
7. Southern Stairs
8. Antonia Fortress
9. Upper Room
10. Pools of Bethesda
11. Pool of Siloam
12. Pilgrim's Road (Herodian St.) from the Pool of Siloam to the Southern Stairs and Robinson's Arch Stairway
13. Mikvahs by the Southern Stairs
14. Original Altar Location
15. City of David

The Meaning of Pentecost in the Bible
1. Pentecost means 50.
2. Fifty days after Passover, the Jewish feast of Pentecost (Shavuot) was celebrated, which was primarily a thanksgiving for the firstfruits of the wheat harvest, but it was later associated with a remembrance of the Law given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. At this feast, the Jews were to give God the firstfruits of their wheat harvest.
3. Pentecost also marks 50 days from the time the Israelites left Egypt and arrived at Mount Sinai, where God gave them the 10 Commandments and the Law.
4. Pentecost happened 50 days after Passover. There were 40 days from the resurrection of Christ to His ascension, and then 10 days from Christ’s ascension to Pentecost, for a total of 50 days.
5. Interestingly, the Jewish nation was born at Mount Sinai 50 days after leaving Egypt, and the Church was born at Pentecost 50 days after Christ’s resurrection.

Reasons why Pentecost likely happened at the southern end of the Temple Mount.
1. It is unlikely that Pentecost took place in the Upper Room as a multitude gathered and witnessed this astounding event. The Upper Room couldn’t have handled such a large crowd of 15,000–30,000 (Acts 2:1–6).
2. Scripture says the coming of the Holy Spirit filled a house, it doesn’t mention the Upper Room.
3. The temple is referred to as the House of the Lord, or just house, in many places in the Bible (John 2:17; Matthew 21:12-13). House can also refer to just a covered area as well. At the southern side of the Temple Mount, just above the Southern Stairs, was the Royal Stoa. It was a public meeting place with a large roof. This could have been a likely place where Pentecost began.
4. The Hebrew word for "house" in Acts 2:2 is "Har Ha Bait," which means "the mountain of THE house," or simply put, "the dwelling place of God." This meaning would support the idea that Pentecost most likely took place on the Temple Mount, and then the 3,000 who were saved were then baptized in the many mikvehs by the Southern Stairs.
5. The coming of the Holy Spirit happened at nine in the morning, which was the time of morning prayers at the temple. The disciples regularly went to the temple at the times of prayer (Acts 2:15).
6. Many scholars say that during the Passover in Christ’s time that Jerusalem swelled to around 150,000 people or more. The Temple Mount and Southern Stair area could easily have handled the large crowd of 15,000 – 30,000 who gathered at Pentecost.
7. Acts 2:41 says 3,000 were saved and baptized. Around the Southern Stairs are many mikveh cleansing pools that could have been used for baptizing those who were saved.
8. The Southern part of the Temple Mount would have been a natural place for Pentecost to happen as it was a center of public activities.
9. The Upper Room is over one-half mile (.83 Km.) from the Temple Mount, which is a long distance away. Most likely, too far away for a large crowd to move from to the Temple Mount area for baptisms, etc.
10. The Upper Room area was a residential neighborhood, and there's no reason 15,000-30,000 people would have been there when the events of Pentecost happened that drew such a large crowd.
11. The Southern Stairs and southern part of the Temple Mount is the best candidate for Pentecost as they could easily handle 15,000 – 30,000 people. This area also had all the mikvehs necessary for baptizing and space to handle such a large crowd.

Tel Lachish: Vital Fortified City, Last City Conquered by Assyrian Invasion, Jerusalem Saved by God

HolyLandSite 2023-01-28 | Lachish is regarded as the second most important city after Jerusalem in the Southern Kingdom of Judah and was strategically located on the Via Maris travel route. It was the last city conquered by the Assyrians before they set their sites on Jerusalem. However, God had other plans and supernaturally intervened and killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. See this amazing event in this video.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:22 - Lachish: Last City the Assyrians Conquered
3:09 - Location of Lachish in Israel
3:53 - Historical Background
8:11 - Lachish in the Bible
23:27 - Faith Lesson from Lachish

Info about Lachish
1. After God killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, King Sennacherib retreated to Ninevah, where he was killed by his own sons. King Hezekiah was a godly king who sought the Lord and saw God work mightily as a result. The prophet Isaiah played a key part in assisting Hezekiah through this amazing time.
2. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Lachish became a thriving Israelite city during king Rehoboam’s reign (920 BC), and around 10,000 people lived in the city at that time.
3. The King of Lachish joined 4 other kings to fight against the Gibeonites because they had made peace with Israel during the conquest of the Promised Land (Joshua 10:1–5).
4. Joshua prayed that the sun would stand still so the Israelites could defeat the 5 kings who had gathered to make war against the Gibeonites and the Israelites (Joshua 10:10–14).
5. Joshua and the Israelites conquer Lachish (Joshua 10:31–32).
6. King Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, fortified Lachish in about 920 BC after the kingdom of Israel was divided (2 Chronicles 11:5–12).
7. King Amaziah fled to Lachish after his defeat to the Northern Kingdom of Israel and was killed by his own countrymen in 767 BC (2 Chronicles 25:14–15).
8. God destroyed Lachish because of their continual rejection of God and sinful choices (Micah 1:13).
9. Lachish was attacked and destroyed by the Assyrians in 701 BC (2 Kings 18:13; 2 Chronicles 32:9–10).
10. God supernaturally protected Jerusalem from the Assyrian conquest (2 Kings 19:8–10; 2 Kings 19:20; 2 Kings 19:35–37).
11. Lachish was again destroyed by the Babylonians in around 587 BC (Jeremiah 34:6–7).
12. The destruction and deportations of the Israelites into Assyria and Babylon were because of their continual disobedience to God (Ezra 5:12, Ezra 9:7).

Faith Lesson from Lachish
1. God gave the Israelites a great victory over the king of Lachish by causing the sun to stand still and by sending great hailstones. Joshua demonstrated great faith in asking God to cause the sun to stand still. Do we realize God is able to do great miracles in our lives if we have faith like Joshua?
2. God supernaturally protected Jerusalem because of King Hezekiah’s devotion and faith and defeated the Assyrians by ordering one angel to kill 185,000 soldiers. If our hearts are right before God, there is nothing we should fear.
3. However, around 115 years later, God allowed the Israelites to be conquered by the Babylonians because of their continual sinful choices. When we are not right with God, we find ourselves in the hand of a disciplining God who will deal with us according to His wisdom.

Holy Land Christian Tour Trips to Israel: 17-Day Trips, Personal Testimonies, HolyLandSite.com

HolyLandSite 2023-01-06 | Hear moving and personal emotional testimonies from those who have gone on a Holy Land Tour Trip to Israel with HolyLandSite.com Ministries. See and hear what your trip would look like.

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BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

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 Bible Lands, where you will find a new dimension in understanding Christian history and the life of our Lord. We will visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, where He was crucified, and raised from the dead. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and immerse ourselves in what the disciples experienced as Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea.

IF IT'S BIBLE YOU WANT, THEN THIS TRIP IS FOR YOU
Dr. Fink will give biblical and historical teachings at each place we visit in the Holy Land. Therefore, this trip is designed to provide an in-depth study and perspective from the Scriptures of the events and places of the Bible.
This is a private, customized trip with a limit of 30 people.

SITES WE'LL VISIT
Old Jaffa (Joppa)
Caesarea Maritima
Mt. Carmel
Megiddo (Armageddon)
Nazareth
Cana
Church of the Annunciation
Tiberius
Sea of Galilee
Boat Ride on the Sea of Galilee
Mount of Beatitudes
Capernaum
Kursi
Feeding of the 5,000
Bethsaida
Caesarea Philippi
Tel Dan
Magdala
Tabgha
Beth Shean
Gideon’s Spring
Mt. Arbel
Baptismal Site of Jesus
Qumran: Dead Sea Scrolls
Masada
Sodom and Gomorrah
Ein Gedi
Dead Sea Float
Bethlehem
Church of the Nativity
Herodian Fortress
Shepherds' Fields
Valley of Elah, the place where David slew Goliath
Beth Shemesh
Samaria region
Shechem
Jacob’s Well
Shiloh
Bethel
Ai
Gibeon
Old City from the top of the Mt. of Olives
Chapel of Ascension
Pater Noster Church
Palm Sunday Walk to the Garden of Gethsemane and Church of All Nations
Dominus Flevit
Mary’s Tomb
Temple Mount
Southern Stairs
Cardo
Hezekiah's Broad Wall
Upper Room
House of Caiaphas
Pilate’s Palace and judgment place where Christ was condemned to crucifixion
Church of St. Anne and the Pool of Bethesda
Via Dolorosa and see the Stations of the Cross
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Western Wall
City of David
King David's Tomb
Kidron Valley
Absolom's Tomb

Pater Noster Church (Eleona): Location of the Lords Prayer, End Times Message, Ascension to Heaven!

HolyLandSite 2022-12-30 | Pater Noster Church, originally called "Eleona," is where Jesus taught about the Lord's Prayer, end time events, and where it's believed He ascended back to heaven. Take a tour of this place and learn how to pray and walk with God in this video.

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Contents:
0:00 - Intro
2:03 - Overview of What We'll See
2:31 - Historical Background Tour
6:39 - Walk Through the Olive Grove Tour
11:07 - Jesus' Teaching on End Times (Matthew 24)
13:52 - A Look at the Lord's Prayer
21-30 - Faith Lesson for Us Today

Location
1. The Church of Pater Noster is located on the top of the Mount of Olives, just below the Chapel of the Ascension.
2. It was first named the Church of Eleona, which means "olive grove." Then, later, in around 1100 AD, its name was changed by the Crusaders to Pater Noster Church, which means "Our Father" because it refers to the beginning of the Lord's Prayer.
3. It is part of a Carmelite Monastery, also known as the Sanctuary of the Eleona (Greek for olive grove).
4. It is the believed place where Christ taught about the Lord's Prayer, gave the Olivet Discourse as found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, and ascended back to heaven as found in Acts 1:9-11.
5. The location of the ascension of Christ to heaven was moved to the top of the Mount of Olives (where the Chapel of Ascension is located today) in the 4th century as it was the believed site it actually took place.

Historical Background
1. Pater Noster means “Our Father” in Latin.
2. Soon after Christ ascended back to heaven, early Christians venerated this site because of its significance.
3. Writing around 318 AD, Eusebius, Bishop of Caesarea, talked about this site.
4. Around 330 AD, a church was commissioned and built by Constantine on the site marked by Helena, the mother of Constantine. It was one of the numerous churches constructed by Constantine, the first Christian Roman emperor.
5. The Byzantine church was built over a cave, which according to tradition, was the place Jesus taught his disciples how to pray.
6. The Persians destroyed the church in 614 AD, but the memory of Jesus’ teaching continued to be associated with it. Some of the Byzantine church remains can be seen in the backyard outside of the present courtyard.
7. When the Crusaders arrived, the site was associated specifically with the Lord's Prayer, so the Crusaders rebuilt part of the church in 1099.
8. In 1851, the remaining stones of the 4th-century church were sold for tombstones in the Valley of Jehoshaphat (Kidron Valley).
9. The site was acquired by Princess Aurelia Bossi de la Tour d'Auvergne (1809–1889) in the second half of the 19th century, and a search for the cave mentioned by early pilgrims began. In 1868, she built a cloister and founded a Carmelite convent in 1872. A convent church was erected in the 1870s.
10. In 1910, the foundations of the ancient church that once stood over the venerated cave were finally found, partly stretching beneath the modern cloister. The convent was moved nearby, and reconstruction of the Byzantine church began in 1915. The half-restored church has the exact dimensions as the original, and the garden outside the three doors outlines the open-aired area.
11. The reconstruction was stopped in 1927 when funds ran out, and the renewed Church of Eleona remains unfinished. The French architect Marcel Favier, who was put in charge of rebuilding the ancient church, arrived in Jerusalem in September 1926.
12. The tomb Princess Aurelia Bossi prepared for herself during her lifetime stands at the entrance of the modern church. She died in Florence in 1889, and her remains were brought to the church in 1957, according to her last wish.
13. The current church is overseen by the Carmelite Cloistered Sisters.
14. It is very likely that Jesus prayed in this vicinity because He had just visited Mary, Martha, and Lazarus’ house in Bethany, a short distance away.
15. Jesus also regularly prayed on mountaintops, so the top of the Mount of Olives would be a natural fit.

Places of Interest
1. The church has 140 large ceramic plaques containing the Lord’s Prayer in many languages.
2. The cave where it is believed Jesus taught about prayer is in an enclosed courtyard in front of the church and down a few stairs. The cave was partially collapsed when discovered in 1910.
3. To the left of the church's south door is an area paved with mosaics and identified as a baptistery.
4. The backyard of the church is where the original Byzantine church was located.
5. The apse of the Byzantine Church can be seen today.
6. Bethany, the town of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.
7. Top of the Mount of Olives
8. Chapel of the Ascension
9. Old City Jerusalem

Magdala, Israel: Hometown & Life of Mary Magdalene, Sea of Galilee! Magadan, Jesus Healed Many!

HolyLandSite 2022-12-28 | Take a tour of all the sites of Magdala by the Sea of Galilee. See the latest discoveries and learn about the life of Mary Magdalene, one of Christ's most devoted followers and from whom Christ cast out seven demons. She was the first one at the tomb after Christ rose from the dead and is mentioned throughout the Gospels. See how her life was drastically changed by Christ and some faith lessons we can learn from here and this site of Magdala!

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TOUR TRIPS TO ISRAEL: https://www.holylandsite.com/holy-lan...
BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:08 - Overview & Synagogue
4:41 - Fish Market Area
5:09 - Residential Area
6:10 - Duc In Altum Center
7:08 - Info About Magdala & Life of Mary Magdalene
19:52 - Faith Lessons for Us Today from the Life of Mary Magdalene

Location
1. Magdala, also known as Migdal, is located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee.
2. It was located on the Via Maris (International Highway linking Africa with Asia and Europe).
Historical Background
1. This particular part of Magdala was recently discovered in 2009. It’s believed a flash flood covered it sometime in the latter part of the 1st Century, as no coins or artifacts were found dating later than 67 AD.
2. It was a fishing village with one of the largest fish markets in the northern Galilee area.
3. It has one of the oldest, most well-preserved synagogues in Israel.
4. This synagogue was in use during the time of Jesus, and He certainly would have preached here on a regular basis.
Matthew 4:23: And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people.
5. On one occasion, Jesus came to this area after feeding 4,000 people on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee.
Matthew 15:38–39: Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. 39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan (Magdala).
6. It had a population of around 1,000–2,000 people during the time of Christ.
7. It had a boat harbor.
8. It has a rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem with detailed carvings showing different aspects of the temple.
9. Magdala was the hometown of the famous Jewish historian, Josephus.
10. It was the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out 7 demons.

Places of Interest
1. Synagogue
2. Beth Midrash (teaching area in the synagogue)
3. Stone with grooves (used for reading the scrolls in the synagogue)
4. A rare stone replica of the temple in Jerusalem in the synagogue
5. Well-preserved mosaics in the synagogue
6. Scroll storage room in the synagogue
7. Marketplace
8. Fish market area
9. Residential area
10. Mikvahs
11. Harbor
12. Byzantine Monastery
13. Duc In Altum (Latin for "Put out into the deep") is a spiritual center in Magdala in which all can worship. It has a unique Galilean boat as an altar and has a beautiful view behind it of the Sea of Galilee. This center was built in honor of Mary Magdalene. One of its purposes is to honor and support women today.

The Amazing Site Where Jesus Gave the Great Commission on Mt Arbel by the Sea of Galilee! Matt. 28

HolyLandSite 2022-12-16 | Explore and experience the place where Jesus gave the Great Commission to go into all the world and preach the gospel. See a breathtaking view of the Sea of Galilee and all the sites around it.

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BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:40 - Overview of Mt. Arbel
3:20 - See All the Sites Around the Sea of Galilee
8:25 - The Great Commission Message to Us from the Bible
13:21 - Faith Lessons for Us Today

Location
1. Mount Arbel is located on the west side of the Sea of Galilee and is the tallest mountain around the Sea of Galilee.
2. It has a spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee, which is about 8 miles (12 km.) wide, and about 13 miles (21 km.) long.
3. It rises about 1,200 ft. (365 m.) above the Sea of Galilee.
4. It has on its eastern side a cliff that drops right down to the Sea of Galilee basin.
5. This cliff has many natural caves used throughout history for battles and protection.

Sites Around the Sea of Galilee that Can be Seen from Mt. Arbel
1. Magdala
2. Gennesaret (Ginasor)
3. The area where Christ likely called several of His disciples
4. Chorazin
5. Tabgha - The likely place Christ restored Peter to ministry
6. Mount of Beatitudes
7. Capernaum
8. Bethsaida
9. Bethsaida Lookout
10. Feeding the 5,000
11. Feeding the 4,000
12. Kursi
13. Horvat Susita
14 Where Jesus walked on water and calmed the sea

Places of Interest at Mt. Arbel
1. Park Entrance
2. Lookout location
3. Arbel Cliffs
4. Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages that lie below the cliffs.
5. Ancient Synagogue
6. Fortress
7. Hiking trail

Historical Background
1. History and tradition locate Mount Arbel as the place where Christ gave the Great Commission mandate to go into all the world and preach the gospel.
2. Many theologians believe this is the place because it is the tallest mountain in the area and provides a perfect view of the Sea of Galilee.
3. Because Christ spent around 60% to 70% of His ministry time around the Sea of Galilee, Mount Arbel would have provided the perfect backdrop as Christ gave His disciples the powerful Great Commission mandate.
4. The Great Commission was one of the last contacts Christ had with His disciples, which shows the importance of this commandment.
5. The cliffs of Mount Arbel have natural caves that have been used as shelters for rebels against Herod the Great, revolts against the Romans, and later periods. The ruins of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine villages lie below the cliffs and on its southwestern side.

Discover the Tombs of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah, & Malachi on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem!

HolyLandSite 2022-12-09 | Join us on this amazing discovery of the tombs of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, the last three prophets of the Old Testament. Learn about the role of the prophets and how we are called today to be like them.

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BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL BY TODD FINK: toddmichaelfink.com/books

Contents:
0:00 - Intro
1:16 - The Layout and Explanation of the Tombs
6:40 - Evidence Supporting These Tombs and Being the Authentic Tombs of the Prophets
8:45 - Tour of the Tombs
11:49 - The Role of the Prophets
16:14 - Faith Lesson for Us Today

Location
1. The Tomb of the Prophets is located at the top of the Mount of Olives at the beginning of the Triumphal Entry descent.
2. Just above it is a popular viewing terrace of Old City Jerusalem.

Historical Background
1. The site has 50 burial niches and two adjoining burial caves.
2. According to books, artifacts, inscriptions, and Jewish tradition, the tombs are those of the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, who lived in the 6th and 5th centuries BC.
3. Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are the last books of the Old Testament.
4. Both Jews and Christians venerate the site as the tombs of these prophets.
5. Inscriptions indicate that the site was also used for the burial of Christians in the Byzantine period.
6. The property is owned by the Russian Orthodox church but is overseen by a local Arab who lives on top of the tomb.