Scenes from Israel Part 7 Elah Valley (David found his five smooth stones in a now-dry riverbed in this valley.) Going to the Temple (We are getting ready to ascend the Temple Mount, the holiest site in the Bible.) Second Temple model Aliyah (This is a special Hebrew word meaning ascent. Jews "make aliyah" when they return to Israel, as it's seen as "going up." Jerusalem, especially the temple area, is also set on a hill and must be ascended. This explains the psalms of ascent, sung on the way to Jerusalem.) Looking down at the Western Wall (According to most rabbis, the temple area is too sacred to visit, as one may accidentally walk upon the Holy of Holies. Because of this, religious Jews pray instead at this enormous retaining wall built by Herod the Great, very near the sacred place.) Tune in tomorrow - we are going to the temple!

Posted by Philip Arndt at 2022-11-30 18:17:54 UTC