PHYSICAL FEATURES
1.The holy land is a region situated in the Middle East on the southeast shore of the
Mediteranion.
2.Its position is at the cross roads of three continents, Asia, Africa and Europe.
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3.The Northern boundaries of the Holy land are Lebanon and Syria.
4.Its eastern boundaries are the Jordan River and Jordan proper.
5.It Southern boundary is Egypt.
6.The Holy land has three principal plains going North to South.
The coastal plain, the central plain and the Jordan Valley.
HISTORY
CEMENTRY OF ANCIANT JEWS
1.Palestine was the cross road of international highways which linked the super powers of
different areas such as Egypt and Mesopotamia in 4000 B.C. and Greece and Rome
from 300 BC to 300 A.D.
2.It was also the land bridge
where great trade took place with
Pompey’s invasion of the
Holy land in 64 BC until the
destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD
by Titus.
3. The land was ruled by the Romans
as a depending of Roman state.
4. During Herod the great region (4
BC to 37 A.D.) the country
prospered. He built the temple of Jerusalem, theaters in Caesarea and fortress and places
such asMassada, Cyprus and the Herodium.
5.After Herod’s death, Samaria and Judea were put under direct Roman rule and Galilee
was given to his son Herod Antipas.
During the time of Jesus birth, Emperor Augustus was reigned and the next Roman
Emperor Tiberius Caesar (14-37 AD) ruled while Jesus was a teenager and an adult. It was
Pontius Pilate the Roman procurator who presided at the trial of Jesus.
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New Testament alone mentions 26
healing ‘miracles, 9 nature miracles with
over 32 parables.
LET THE BIBLE BE YOUR GUIDE
Trip to Israel is like leafing through
the pages of a living Bible. Illustrations you
GOD GAVE LAW THROUGH MOSES
can’t see anywhere else on earth. You can
see your favorite passages come to life. Visit the domed church on the shore of the Sea of
Galilee, traditional site of the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs.
Travel through Judea to Jericho, the River Jordan, and Bethlehem, birth place of David. You
can still visit the grotto where Mary placed the infant Jesus because “there was no room for
them at the inn.” From there, a seven-minute drive (an hour by donkey) will bring you to the
gates Zion, walk around her, counting her towers of admiring her walls, reviewing her places..
“(Psalms 48:12). Page by page, town by town, you’ll Re-live Biblical epics. And you’ll follow
the words of Jesus and His disciples, “through the cities and the villages, teaching and
journeying...” (Luke 13:22). Come to Israel, You won’t need to buy a guide book because
you’ve already got the best one ever written the Holy Bible.
JESUS
The Northen Regions of the holy land flow with many steams, contain rich vegetation and
are filled with a host of hidden, natural treasures. They offer numerous archaeological sites
and execiting views.
1.During much of the year they are covered by a carpet of flowers, a rain bow of colors
was in full bloom.
2.These regions contain much of the Holy Lands fresh water of the Sea of Galilee the
Basalt of Golan heights and the lofty peak of Mount Hermon raise to the east.
3.The charming land scopes of Galilee extend west to Mediterranean Sea hiding between
the mountains are fertile. Hula valley and Jordan River.
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4. South West of the region is Mount Carmel on the coast, with the city of Haifa.
5. South of the Northern Region raises Mount Gilboa with its special vistas.
6. The Jezreel valley is also remarkable.
The Holy Land tour
1.In the Old Testament those who love Jerusalem are blessed. (Psalm 137: 5, 6) It is
only because of King David.
2.All over the world, Jerusalem is famous for its Glory for King David’s regime. More
persecutions were done so many returned to this place.
3.In modern town like Tel Aviv above the population is 1, 53,800. The reason for their
return to their place is that God had a specific plan of His own.
Brief History of Israel : Many prophecies were declared by many that Jesus Christ
would born as a King of Jews. Many were fulfilled. (Luke 21:28, Mathew 24: 22, 33)
The people of Israel were compared to fig
trees. In Hosea, it was compared to vineyard.
Joel 1:7, Mark 11:11, Luke 13:6, Isaiah 5:7.
1. Jews were loved by God Before Christ
was born 600 prior to that, Ezekiel prophesied
in 37:1. Vision of dry bones. So now the Israel
people are being benefited by receiving
benefits from Government regarding education
MAIN PLACES OF JERUSALEM
and living.
2. In 3000 B.C. many forgot the language of Hebrew. (Jeremiah 31:23). It was national
language. After 2000 years were passed Hebrew language was reviewed as national language.
According to Mathew 17:27. Shekel is now being used as currency including.
3.In 1935-1945 German Nazi Dictator Adolph Hitler’s Cruel treatment was remarkable during
Second World War. From the world history 60,00,000 Jews were completely perished only by
letting all in a dark place without air provision, poisonous snakes, gases were sent to destroy
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them. According Ezekiel 37:11 they were like
dry bones. With in one hour, 10 Lakhs of
Israelites soldiers walked on the roads to fight
for their country. In modern Israel cultivation
of land by new procedures made a wonderful
yield with green beauty allover now.
4.All that happened is only based on the
Biblical truths Ezekiel 37:19, 38:1. “Japan &
Israel will be one “The dead will be raised”.
This is the only blessed hope for all Christians.
In Jesus all of us have a blessed hope of meeting him. Now the country Gogu represents
Russia. All the Jews will come back to Israel.
Proof of God’s prophecy
1)In 1982 Jews population were 24,000 only.
2)In 1914 during First World War, they were 85,000.
3)In 1927, 1, 50,000 Jews living in Palestine.
4)By 1947 Jews increase in number they were 6, 26,000.
5)The Israel got its independence on May 14, 1948. When we see the promise of God in
Isaiah 43:5, 6. “I will establish and spread your Kingdom was fulfilled as with the help of
British, Germany, Australia and people of Italy helped the Jews to return to their own land.
a)By 1953 the population of Jews increased to 50% as 87% of Eastern nations and Europe
and oriental nation helped 10% for their return.
b)From the West people from Libya came back too many people are from Tunis, Algeria
and Latin Americans.
c)From North Czechoslovakia Europe, Turkey, and Bulgaria too people came.
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d) From South Yemen from old South Arabia
1, 48,000 Jews, Muslims dominated and
humiliated Jews to suffer. Out of 10 members
of Jews eight were died without proper shelter
Huge flames spread allover the place.
On second day in old city of Jerusalem the
wailing wall many were gathered. In 1897, the
hope of the people was strong by Israel that
time. Israel Chief came closet the original wall
of the temple and said “This is a great day that
many did not see.
3.After two days soldiers of Jordon entered
in Jordan River, coastal area, who were chased
by their enemies. Then the mighty people of
God, Israelites came forward with great
courage like those in Joshua time reached the place of the Dead Sea. Then Arabs started
cease fire Russians provided three billion worth of weapons and reached Sinai desert area.
After that the blessing of God was visible as they fought and got their place to live. That is
independence for Israel.
The reasons that how they got victory in 6 day war. The victory of 6 days war was the
victory of god's people who believe in God’s promises.
1.Israelites fought for their own land. They were humiliated by their enemies for 1900
years. They did not have shelter. Now they enjoy the land of milk and honey. As we see the
beauty of Israel one cannot describe the green and fertile land.
2.Israel people fought for their victories in their lives. They strongly decided to drive the
enemies always at any cost.
3.The strong hand that gave victory for Israel people only gave them that victory for sure.
The British Chief was a native of Zion. He had the great foundation and had great faith in
God. He only taught many techniques in the army lives. His name was Orde Wingale. Then
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with creative skill he did his job. Next, the
general of Israel was Moshe Dayan admired
the Chief as a great teacher “If 100 people
happen to fight with 3 men. Each man will be
equal to 50 people. All were reminded about
Gideon from Judges.
THE REASONS FOR THEIR SUCCESS
WAS BASED ON SOME VALUES
1. Israel people pre planned how to attack
the enemy in a systematic way.
2. People of Israelis 8% were well trained
and separated only to face the trial when
needed.
3. Within 21 hours they placed themselves
in such a way to capture the citadel, and to make enemies to sink down. God’s hand was with
Israelites. Aluf Shalomeo Gorem the Chief prayed a special prayer after good preparation.
He just followed the principle of Jehoshapathe how he did by encouraging to praise and
worship by keeping humble mind, "You are our refuse in times of trouble". They believed all
the promises from the Bible (Psalms 20:34, 35: 1, 2, 83: 2; 3, 14 to 16).
According to the generals of Zion, at first Egypt people surrendered to Israelites. Every
body feared, and then a person with white dress came close to him. Everybody saw it.
Then, Egyptians ran from that place. All people heard a great sound of bomb blast no body
were injured.
Then the soldier became a strong believer gave witness about his faith in God. The
treasures of Israel were preserved and saved. Israel city was handed over to only Jews. The
Glory was recovered after 1900 years. Every one got the self confidence. “If anybody can
raise a hand against Israelm, then the foot of the enemy will be ready from Israelites to attack
back. The wonder of wonders is that only two and a half (2 1/2) million people of Jews
attacked the enemies. But the Arabs were 80 million.
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The great promise was fulfilled Mathew 8:23 we will come with you ‘God’s presence will
go with you’ wherever you go.
ISRAEL IN THE PAST:
Israel is a promised country where the eye of God is always on them since 2000 BC.
1. At first God called Abraham from Ur. He asked Abraham to depend on Him to follow God.
Genesis 12:1-3.Abraham got promised son Isaac, and from him had Jacob who was father of
12 sons who were non Isralites. God blessed the 12 tribes of Israel saved from poverty Joseph
was chosen by God to uplift the lives of his brothers. They stayed for complete 400 years in
Egypt. They were 3 millions.
2.Moses comes next to be remembered for his meekness and to be the leader for Israelites.
3.In 1451 BC Joshua was the leader next to Moses to lead the people to canan. He too
faced opposition. During 450 yeas many judges took the responsibility for the people of God,
Israelites. (Acts 13:20). In 1040 B.C. Saul became the first King of Jews. IN 1010 BC,
David defeated Goliath against Philistines.
4.David son Solomon built the temple of God when David arranged everything for his son
to take complete responsibility. Solomon’s son Rehabam, time of his reigning in 922 BC, the
twelve tribes were divided into ten plus two tribes.
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5.In 722 BC the Assyrians were caught hold of Amorites. The two tribes belonged to
southern part and in 600 BC. There were captured by enemies.
a). Three kinds of Jews pilgrimaged from Babylon to Judah. In 536 BC, the first group was
taken care by Jerubbabel.
OLD MONASTRERY AT HILL
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b)After 78 years Ezra took the
responsibility to build the temple of God.
After 14 years, Nehemiah; started with third
batch and he rebuilt the wall “Come, let us
rebuild” was the golden slogan. All the above
leaders with a burning zeal and love for God
did great things for God’s Family we can
see 400 silent years and no property was
given, they say it. Finally in 33 AD our Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ died on the cross.
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-
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.