BOAT OF GALILEE
He shed blood to save all sinners and we
are redeemed only through His blood.
A new church was born on Pentecost
day where the power of the Holy Spirit
touched them. The blood of the martyrs
became the seed for building the Church of
God and many people were persecuted for
His name and victoriously died for Jesus. In
the history of Israel in 70 AD Titus was a cruel
and wicked person to destroy the blessed
temple.
So many Jews were captured and were
sold. Some of them were scattered “Half
Million Jews were against Romans and one
brave man Ben Kuchaba took leading part.
They were called Palestinians in those days,
not as Jews according to Philistines. Our Jesus
was born in Bethlehem which is in Palestine
today.
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THE PRIMACY OF ST.PETER (Tegba)
Church of the Primacy with the Mensa Christ.
(Christ Table) is a special attraction for all visitors. Jesus
asked Peter three times “Do you Love me”. (John 21:15)
Jesus began his Ministry by the Sea of Galilee, In
Tabgha, on the North Western shore of the sea, stands
the Sanctuary of Primacy of Peter. It was built by the
Franciscans on 1933. On the water front next to ancient
steps leading down to the sea. Here tradition holds Jesus
appeared to his disciples following the resurrection and
restored Simon to the place of authority in the church
following the denials. A flat rock, known as Mensa Christi
mark of disciples ate that day.
GOLAN HEIGHTS
The Golan Heights rises above the Sea of Galilee and the Hula Valley It high elevation
and visiting view is breathe taking and beautiful.
From west one can see agricultural fields of the Hula Valley with its colorful patch
work. Its South West lie the Sea of Galilee and the Jordon River which look like the eye of
the needle and the thread with which the patch work is down. One can see Golan
Archaeological Museum in Katzrin which is the center of Golan Heights.
HULA VALLY
Lake Hula was the most northern, the
highest and the smallest of the three body’s
water in the Jordan rift. The drainage of this
and swampy lake was completed in 1957. It
is above the sea level. Also called waters of
merom (Jashu 11:7). One of Joshuas’ great
victories was won here (Josh 11:5-9).
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TEL HAZOR
It is one of the most significant
archaeological sites in the valley. It is in the
site of ancient town of Hazor one of the Largest
and most important towns in the ancient Holy
land: Hazor is 9 miles north of the Sea of
Galilee, The first city was built over 4,500 years
ago.
1.Joshua burned it to the ground (Josh 11:1-
సాక్ష్యం 13.
2.Deborah and Barak led Israel to a victory
over Sisera. (Judges 4)
3.Solomon rebuilt Hazore. (1 Kings 9:15)
4.Hazor was destroyed by Assyrian King Tiglath Pileasar in 732 B.C.When Joshua and
Israelites entered the Promised Land 1200 BC, they conquered Hazor “Hazore was the head
of all those Kingdoms”. Jan 11:10. Some of the finds extend back to the time of King
Solomon who made Hazor 9:15 one of the fortress Cities. I Kings 9: 15.
ACRE (ACCO)
It is mentioned from the Bible (Judges 1:31). These people are Assyrians. St Paul came
to this place. In those days the name was Ptolemai. Acts 21: 7. In 1906 Ottoman King built
a hotel when a
clock tower
helps and for
explorers as
land mark. It is
located 9 miles
North of Haifa
at the Crescent
shaped bay. It
was assigned to
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the tribe of Asher but was not taken at that
time. (Josh 19:24-31).
It was called aco in Judges 1:31. It was
named Ptolemais after the Ptolemies of
Egypt. Napoleon captured it after two month
siege in 1799. Today the town is akko Paul
stopped here on his final trip to Jerusalem
Acts 21.7.
ROSH HANIKRA
It is a beautiful place, the bright light
shines of the small caves gives the beauty
of nature and allows to praise God for the
hand work of God. Rosh Hanikra is the Northern most point of Israel on the Mediterranean
Coast and stands on Israelis boarder with Lebanon.
It consists of a lime stone and chalk mountain. Its western cliffs slopping to the sea. Since
creation the forces of nature have carved grotts and tidal caverns into the rock. There are
incredibly beautiful and visitors view this sight through cable cars.
ZOPPORI
It is situated close to Nazareth six miles distance. It is a beautiful town as described by
St. Paul. In 10-15 A.D. Jesus spent his childhood in this place and it was built at that time
some traditional characteristics for Mary were imparted from this place. Herod Antipas built
it, Hebrew tradition was written here.
ZIPPORI
It lay slightly to the North West of
Nazareth. Jesus probably visited this Central
City. He passed these way, some scholars
say on his way from Nazareth to
Capernaum. It was a Jewish city with
administered political religious, social and
cultural affairs. During 2nd century A.D.
the Jewish counsel Sanhedrin met here.
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Rabby Judah ha - nasi lived here. According to one tradition Anne, mother of Virgin Mary and
her husband Joachin lived in Zippori.
Mt. CARMEL AND HAIFA
It is a beautiful coast as Israel’s sea gate way. It is here where thousands of Pilgrims and
immigrants first saw the land of the return.
It is Israelis third largest city. It has 207,000
population. It is a center of heavy industry,
International trade technological training and
research. Liners and Cargo ships unload in
Haifa. The beautiful camel mountain rises
above the Mediterranean Sea. It has thick,
natural vegetation that remain all year green
around and affords magical vistas of sea,
mountain and plain. Haifa located as the
junction of the Carmel mountain range and
the Coastal regions. It is port city and an
industrial commercial and service center for
north and entire country.
1.From the Bible history it is a famous
place I.Kings 18:17-40. Two villages are
famous also Dilyat - el Carmel and Isliya
Sletha.
2.Peak of the Carmel Muhraqua, One
of the eastern peak of Carmel ranges is a monastery surrounded by a national park.
3.The view is spectacular as the Jezreel valley upholds below.Here that Elijah defeated
the prophets of Baal and succeeded in proving that the God of Israel is the true God.
4.Mount Carmel is Vineyard of God ( 2 Chro. 26:10)
The King dugged many wells. Many farmers were existed.
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5.King Solomon appreciated its beauty in Song of Solomon, 7 : 5. Beautiful description from
the Bible. Isaiah 35:2. Jermiah 46:18, 52:19. When the mountains are spoken of as Languishing,
this is a sign of God’s Judgement on the Land. Nahum 1:4, Amos 1:2, Isaiah 33 : 9. A great
history of the prophet. 1 King 18: 19-39, 41-45.
He prayed to the living God Elijah ran and hid himself 1 kings 18:46. The cave of Elijah is
located at the foot of Carmel, where it is believed he hid from the anger of King Ahab.
This place is very Holy one, and God’s mighty power was revealed. The caves are like honey
comb shape and looks very interesting. Many monks lived lonely here to the South of its
mountain places I Kings 18:40.
There was a famous water fountain. From that spring only Elijah poured water on the
altar. Twelve stones were placed in the altar put a round in A huge statue was put in a high
place which reminds of that great day visitors admire and worship God’s power there.
JAZREEL VALLEY
From Ancient times Jazreel was known for its well watered and fertile fields. The main
road that linked Egypt with Mesopotamia ran through this valley, Tribal leaders and out side
covered the valley for its location and abundance. Frequent battles in the region after determined
who ruled this part of Holy land.
Jazreel Valley is between two mountain ranges three of Galilee in the North and Samaria
to the South. If formed a land bridge for armies who marched to war between the Euphrates
and Nile rivers.
Pharaoh of Egypt, Hitler, Isralites, Philistines, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, Romans,
Crusaders, Turks and the British have fought on its plans. The prophet Hosea remarks. And
the earth shall answer the grain, the wine and they shall answer Jezreel (Hos:2:22). Israel
will look for mark to Millennial blessings after Armageddon (Hos: 2:21-23).Battle of
Armageddon to be fought here. (Rev 16:13-16).
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JORDAN VALLEY
1.Gideon and 300 soldiers, Routed the Medianites (Jud. 6:33,37).
2.Deborah and Barak defeated, Sisera and his army (Judges 4)
3.Hoshia Prophesied. Great Blessing up on the Nation in this place. (Hos.1:10,17)
4.Battle of Armageddon to be fought here (Rev.13:16).
5.Israel will look forward to millennial blessing after Armageddon (Hos 2:21-23.
MOUNT GILBOA
South of the Valley of Jezreel stand majestic mount gilboa Oh this mountain king Saul died
by his own sword while fighting against Philistines ( I Samuel 31) David lamented the death
of the King and his dear friend Jonathan, the Kings son. (2 Sam.1:19-21)
Gideon and 300 soldiers routed the Medianites. (Judge 6:37,7). Deborah and Barak defeated
Sisera and his army. (Judge 4). Hosea Prophesied great blessing upon the Nation in this place.
(Hos 1:10-11). The Crusader fortress was there “Belvoir” established as a fortified farm,
rests on the crest of the heights above Jordan Valley.
CHURCH OF THE VISITATION
Franciscan Church honours the occasion of the Virgin Mary’s visit. A Beautiful, mosaic
was there Mary on her journey from Nazareth to Jerusalem decorates the interior of the
church. Tablets in the church court yard record Mary’s Magnificent. (Luke 1:46-55)
ANCIENT CHURCH OF MARY’S ROCK
This is the earliest church dedicated to Virgin Mary mother of Christ. 1992 Authorities
uncovered the remains of a large Octagonal Church built in Byzantine period.
MOUNT GILBOA
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At the heart of the structure was found a large flat rock elevated above the surrounding
floor. According to tradition the pregnant Mary rested on this stone during the difficult, journey
from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Bethlehem the birth place of Jesus lies to the South of Jerusalem.
It is David’s home town, clearly Bethlehem ranks as a significant site for stories of Old
Testament.
Catherine church was famous where circular lights indicate the death of Jesus. There
are three caves. St.Jerobon small church and his houses room when he wrote more about the
history. He translated New Testament and old in Latin language. They call it Vulgate.
The second cave is for memory of killed innocent kids in Herod time (Mathew 2:13-18).
The third one is milk ghetto where Mary fed Jesus with her milk.Bethlehem is located on the
mountain road which from ancient times linked the main hill top cities of Samaria, Shechem
Bethel, and Jerusalem.
THE CHURCH OF NATIVITY
The first church was built above the Grotto of the nativity in the 4th Century AD by
the Roman Emperor Constantine and his mother
Helena built a majestic church adorned with Mosaics
and beautiful marble.
In 6th Century Byzantine emperor Justinian built a
new and ever more elaborate church here. All parts
are covered with marble and gold plated mosaics. Luke
1:27, Mathew 2:1-11.Math 2:9-11 they were
astonished by sight of the Persian sages. Out of respect
for them they left the church intact.
BETHLEHEM
Bethlehem is located 5 miles South of Jerusalem
Neither Joshua nor Nehemiah mentions Bethlehem as
amount the cities of Judah suggesting that this was
possibly an insignificant village in the old testament
history. Bethlehem the birth place, it means house of
bread.
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Ruth stayed here (Ruth chapter 3) A
prophecy was fulfilled (Mich 5.2). Persians
destroyed all the other churches except this
because they saw persian King picture on the
wall who adored Jesus.
EIN KEREM
En Kerem located in the Western part of
Jerusalem. It was the home of Elizabeth and
Zachariah; parents of John the Baptist, An
angel appeared to Zachariah (Luke 1.5-10).
During 6th month of Elizabeth’s
Pregnancy, Mary visited her in Judea. Mary
exclaimed praises to God for His magnificent
blessing, a text referred to as fine magnificent
in church tradition.
There are several churches around En Kerem the church of St.John is special because
church courtyard displays in several language. The prophecy of Zachariah (Luke 1:67-79)
referred to as the Benedictus” in church tradition.
RACHEL TOMB
Rachel, Jacobs’s wife and one of the patriarchs of Israel is buried in the territory of
Bethlehem. The traditional tomb is located on the main mountain route “On the way to
Ephrata that is Bethlehem. Jacob Set a Pillar at her grave (Gen 35:19-20).
It said, Rachel’s sorrow for her children the agony of many mothers during Herod’s
slaughter of the innocents. It was fulfilled what had been spoken through the prophet Jeremiah.
“A voice was heard in Ramah, waiting and loud lamentation. Rachel was wept for her children.
She refused to be consoled. Mathew 2: Rachel Tomb is located little North of Bethlehem. It
is the first memorial erected to the dead mentioned in the Bible Gen 35: 19-20, I Samuel 10:2.
HEZEKIAH’S TUNNEL
Perhaps the most impressive is Hezekiah’s Tunnel. It was dug during the reign of King
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Hezekiah. It transported water from the
Gihon Spring to a reservoir, the Pool of
Siloam, which lay inside the city walls to
pro-tect the water supply from enemies (2
Chr. 32:30). The tunnel is 533 meters (1748
ft) in length. Workmen began tun-neling from
each end and met in the mid-dle. A Hebrew
inscription was marked on the site where the
two tunnels met.
SAFED
This is one of the significant places in
upper Galilee. It is a child among mountains
nature gave beauty to it. It was a spiritual
center. This is Jewish learning center
Jerusalem Hebron and safed are considered
as Jewish cities. All are active and hold
prayer services daily on Fridays they sing and pray to welcome the coming Sabbath the
artist’s quarter in the old city with workshop and galleries celebrate Klezimer festival of
Jewish music.
SHEPHERD’S FIELDS
The traditional Shepherd’s field is east of Bethlehem in an area which supported the
agricultural needs of Judea. The area was perfect for gazing live stock. The agricultural lands
spread out as far as Indian Desert and these areas not used for agriculture were taken up by
pasture.
As mentioned in Mica 4:8. The place is associated with tower for the flock Mica 5:2. “A
ruler who would one day arises from Bethlehem. An angel appeared and altered, shepherd
that a saviour was born.
There are several churches in the area built above caves considered sacred near Arab
village of Beit Sahur, east of Bethlehem Greek and Franciscan’s churches were built. Modern
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churches along with monasteries continue to recall the revelation to the shepherd’s. Luke 2:8-
సాక్ష్యం 18.
BAPTISM OF JESUS
The Jordan River flows South part, the Sea of Galilee through the Syrian African Rift to
the Dead Sea. Many prophets in Israel found inspiration and comfort on the area around the
Jordon. Mark 1:9-11, Mathew 3:1-3
Elijah hid by Wadi Cherith after he confronted Ahab with the Lord 1 Kings 17:3. Elisha,
Naaman was healed after dipping in Jordan 7 times, 2 Kings 5:8-14. John the Baptist chose
Jordan to Prepare away for the Lords coming.An event which marked the beginning of
Saviour Public Ministry.Nearby more than 1200 years earlier, Israels crossed the Jordan and
entered the Promised Land Joshi 3.
MT OF TEMPTATION
The mount of temptation according to Tradition stands, North West of Jericho, over
looking the world’s most ancient city. Mathew 4:1-4, Mathew 4:8-11
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THE AREA OF SAMARIA
It is located 9 miles north of Nablus.
The cities of Samara make up the ten tribes
over which Jerobam made himself king both
east and west of Jordan. (1 King 13:32-34)
BETHANY
“Bethany” has three meanings. House
of Dates; House of the Poor; House of Misery. It is also called El-Azariyeh or House of
Lazarus.
1.Home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus (Lk. 10:38-42)
2.Lord’s prayer probably given near here (Lk.11:1-4)
3.Raising of Lazarus (Jn.11:1-46)
4.Christ anointed by Mary (Jn.12:1-8).
5.Jesus stayed here when he came to Jerusalem for Passover (Mt. 21:17). Known as the
Quarantal Monastery means (Forty) from its balcony visitors can view Jericho and Jordan
Valley.
SHECHEM (NABLUS)
The city of Shechem lives between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal in a fertile Valley
which has attracted settler’s throughout history.
It is first mentioned in the Old Testament when Abraham and Jacob passed through the
territory and built altars there. After the division of Israel, Jeroboam built shechem and resided
there. 1 Kings 12:25. The Arabic name of the city today is Nablus. Nablus is a corruption of
the Greek “Neopolis” the name given to Hellenistic period.
Tel Balatah, east of the modern city is the site of the Old Testament and Hellenistic
village. The oak of Moreh stands near Shechem. Abraham built on a altar Gen 12:5-7 in
respect of Divine promise and God’s appearance. Jacab too built an altar there El-Elohe -
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Israel God, God of Israel. Gen.33:18-20. After Joseph died the Israelites Joshua 24:32 brought
his bones back from Egypt.
WADI QELT
The person who asked Jesus “Who is my neighbor” at this very place. (Luke 10: 30,37)
There is one monastery for Greeks in St.
George monastery was built few found a cave
where five saints lived where one of the saints
built a big bell above 40 ft and a plea too.
During war it was destroyed but it was rebuilt
in 1900.
WADE QUELT (Nahal Parat)
Nahal Parat is one of the beautiful and
interesting steams in the country. It collects
waters from Judean country side and runs into
Jordan near Jericho.
Along the edge of the wadi a Roman road
led upto the mount of Olives. Along the
streams, there are remains of aqueducts
fortresses, palaces and monasteries. This is
where Elijah the prophet had and where
ravens brought bread 1 Kings 17:2-7. This
place belonged to parents of Mary.
JACOB'S WELL
In this Samaria area one can find Jacob’s
well. Greeks were in charge of maintaining this precious place. (John 4:13, 14).In winter
time Samarians worship at Garezim mountain by fasting for 40 days. They worship God with
dedication. They offer sheep for offering to God by traditions performances they follow Jews
customs. This is the place where Jesus met Samaritan woman. (John 4:1-42). The well is
situated on the land that Jacob purchased at Shechem.
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Mt. Garizim
Mt. Garizim and Mount Ebal mark the highest points of Elevation in the region. After
Israelites crossed the Jordan, they erected an altar on Mount Ebal and set up stones inscribed
with the words of Law.Josh 8:30.
Mt. Ebal became known as Mount of curse. (Deu 27:11). According to Samaritans doctrine,
Abraham erected an alter to sacrifice his son Isaac Gen 22:1-19). Every year they celebrate
pass over eve by sacrificing lambs on this mountain.
JERICHO
On this final journey to Jerusalem, Jesus passed through Jericho. No desert Oasis is more
stunning than Jericho. It is one of the
oldest cities of the world. The Vegetation which
blankets the city - appears to give a green glow
to the desert and its surroundings. Jericho
reached its Pinacle of Prosperity in the times
of Hasmoneans and Kings Herod.
Medical plants and spices particularly balsam
are famous. Many palaces summer homes
were built due to its climate. Some synagogues
were also built during Bygentine period. If
became famous for important Christian Heaven with many churches and Monasteries.
There is an ancient spring called Arabic Eines - Sultan - It is also called Elisha’s well.
Elisha put salt in that water to make it sweet. (2 Kings 2:19-22).
Winter palaces Jewish synagogues were with decorations on Mosaic floor. Some Hebrew
inscriptions which road shalom. Al ye Israel peace upon Israel were there to be admired.
ROAD TO JERUSALEM
After Christ had said this Parable in Jericho, he went on a road going to Jerusalem. Luke
19:28.
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1. On this last Journey from Jericho to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled through an important
road, Ascending Mount, Holy city. The route was full of twists and turns, robbers linger there.
The way side inns and fortresses were set up along the way. Their remains are still evident
today. Who is my neighbor “The parable based on this area? Luke 10:29, Luke 10:30-37.
BETHANY
Bethany means in 3 ways.1. House of dates, 2. House of poor, 3. House of Misery, It is
called as (El - Azariyeh) house of Lazarus. Home of Mary and Martha. Luke 10 : 38, 42.
Lords Prayer probably given here. Luke 11: 1 - 4. Raising Lazarus. John 11: 1-46.
Christ was anointed by Mary. John 12:1-8. Jesus stayed there when he came to Jerusalem
for Passover. Mathew 21:1.
Bethany is a place on the way to Jericho from Jerusalem at a distance of 3 Kilometers.
Jesus came to this place several times’ Jesus four close friends belong to this place, Mary
Martha, their brother Lazarus and Simon the leper. There was a church dedicated to Lazarus.
In 1952 a church was built old churches were already three there, A Bible verse was written
I am the resurrection and life.
(John 11:25).
BETH PAGE:
Bethpage means, tender figs (Mathew 21:1). Some call this as house of green figs.In
this same village Jesus rode on donkey on Palm Sunday.Greeks built a small Church in 1883.
They call it Monting stone of Christ. From this every Sunday a procession will follow.
There are many churches as on of them. Peter Noster means father (Mathew 6:10, 13). Here
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only Jesus ascended to Heaven. Close to this there is Kedron valley from where Jesus wept
for Jerusalem.
ARMENIAN QUARTER
It is on the South West corner of the old city in the heart of the national, religious and
cultural life of Armenian Orthodox in Jerusalem.
In the middle of it St. James Cathedral is the most important Armenian Church of the
Holy Land. That is dedicated to St. James, the brother of St. John one of the 12 disciples of
Jesus. Acts: 12:12. King Herod killed James with sword.
CRUCIFIXION AND BURIAL
Roman soldiers crucified Jesus on a barren, rocky hill top. In Aramaic it was called
Golgotha (Calvary in Latin). It means a place of Skull. Joseph of Arimatheas provided a burial
cave for Jesus adjacent to the place of his crucifixion, He sealed the entrance to the cave with
a large stone. After three days the disciples
found the tomb empty (Mathe 28:1-7), (John
20:11-17) (Mathew 27:33-37, Luke: 23:37,
Luke 23:37, Mark 15:33-34, Mathew 27:50-
51, Mathew. 27:57-61. The Stations of the
Cross within the sepulcher were 10 to 14
stations. Holy Sepulcher)
There are two places pointed out to visitors
to the Holy Land as the place where Lord
was crucified (Mt 27:33-50). There is
traditional side of the crucifixion and burial of
Christ. Christian crucified out side of the gate.
GARDEN TOMB:
Located at the foot of the rock knoll known as Gardens Calvary is a rock at tomb dating
from the Roman period. It belonged to Joseph of Arimathea when Jesus was buried. (Math
27:57-60). Next to it is the mound of Golgotha (Calvary). Below Golgotha is the chapel of
Adam built in honour of the first man. The body of Jesus was laid prior to the burial on the
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stone as tradition declared. With in the
church complex many important chapels
provide places of worship. The building was
shared by many Christian denominations
including Catholics, Crèche, Orthodox,
Armenians.