Israel Day 8

Jerusalem -

We began the day at the Temple Mount, the site of the temple and current site of the Muslim Mosque, the Dome of the Rock. We entered the city through the Dung Gate, then past security to the Temple Mount. From the courtyard we looked out through the arches and saw the Mt. of Olives. The Dome covers the traditional site of Mt. Moriah where Abraham took Isaac to sacrifice him in Genesis, and the Holy of Holies of the Jewish Temple.

Coming off the Temple Mount, we walked the Via Dolorosa (the Way of Suffering), the path Jesus took as He carried the cross to Golgotha, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. We then walked along the Western Wall of the Temple Mount in a tunnel beneath the city, and walked on a street from Jesus' day, a street He most surely would have traveled.

After a Filafel (sp?) lunch, we visited the Temple Institute, where they are preparing for building the third temple. We saw the furnishings of the temple that have already been made according to Old Testament descriptions and dimensions in preparation and expectation of rebuilding the temple. We saw the bronze laver, the golden lampstand, the table of showbread and the altar of incense, all completed and ready for use. We saw the garments of the priests and levites, as well as the High Priest's garments. This was even more interesting after visiting the tabernacle a few days ago.

Tomorrow we will visit Calvary, the Garden Tomb, and the Upper Room. This has been an enlightening pilgrimage, giving me a greater understanding of the Jewish roots of Christianity. Seeing the sights and dimensions with my own eyes gives a more accurate perspective to the accounts of Scripture.

I wish you were here with me.

Enjoying the Journey,
David