The document summarizes the two great pillars at the entrance of King Solomon's temple in Jerusalem. It describes their origins in earlier Canaanite temple traditions from Syria and discusses archaeological evidence of similar temples dating back to 2500 BC. The pillars, named Jachin and Boaz, stood independently in the porch and were hollow columns over 18 cubits high, cast using the lost wax method. They likely held burning oil to illuminate the temple facade and produce smoke as fire altars. The pillars symbolized God's establishment and strength of the Davidic dynasty.
This paper examines archaeological evidence that supports references to historical events and places mentioned in the Quran. It discusses uncovered cities like Babylon, Iram, and Saba. It also mentions prophets like Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, and Moses whose names were found on artifacts like the Ebla tablets and Egyptian hieroglyphs. The paper compares stories in the Quran to archaeological discoveries, like accounts of mummification matching what was found in Egypt. Overall, the paper argues that the historical information provided in the Quran agrees with archaeological findings, providing evidence that the Quran is the word of God.
This document discusses evidence supporting the Ethiopian tradition that the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Ethiopia in 950 BC by Menelik, son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. It summarizes the account in the Kebra Nagast, an Ethiopian epic compiled in 1314 AD, which describes how the eldest sons of Solomon's kingdom stole the Ark and fled to Ethiopia with Menelik. It argues this tradition is supported by inscriptions on incense burners in an Ethiopian church, and that the tradition explains discrepancies in archaeological evidence about the location of pre-586 BC Israel described in the Old Testament.
Your daily itinerary for israel 2012 (3)David Allen
The itinerary provides a detailed schedule for an 11-day study tour of Israel beginning in Tel Aviv and including visits to numerous biblical and historical sites around the country. Some highlights include exploring Caesarea, Megiddo, Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee; touring Petra in Jordan; floating in the Dead Sea; and spending several days in Jerusalem visiting religious sites. The trip concludes with visits to Bethlehem and environs before returning home to Los Angeles.
Final general bilingual holyland 13 d10n 2013tkc12
This document provides a 13-day itinerary for a tour of religious sites in Dubai, Egypt, Israel, and Palestine. The tour begins in Dubai and includes visits to Cairo, Mount Sinai, St. Catherine's Monastery, Taba Heights on the Red Sea, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and other important biblical locations. Each day provides details on the religious and historical sites to be visited, meals included, and overnight accommodations.
The document summarizes the history of the ancient Hebrews. It discusses how they originated as nomadic herders from Mesopotamia who settled in the region of Palestine and developed a monotheistic religion. It describes Abraham's journey from Ur to Canaan, the Exodus story of Moses freeing the Hebrew slaves from Egypt, and the development of the Hebrew civilization and kingdoms under Saul, David, and Solomon. The kingdoms later split and the Israelites were taken into captivity before the Romans destroyed Jerusalem.
Israel is located in the Middle East along the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Egypt, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. Its maritime plain is fertile while much of the southern Negev region is desert. The Jordan River flows through several bodies of water before emptying into the Dead Sea, the lowest elevation on land. According to the Hebrew Bible, the name "Israel" was given to the patriarch Jacob after he wrestled with an angel. His twelve sons became the ancestors of the Israelites. Israel has a parliamentary democracy government with Benjamin Netanyahu currently serving as prime minister. The area has a long history involving many rulers and civilizations over thousands of years.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon were one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built in the ancient city of Babylon in Iraq by King Nebuchadnezzar II between 605-562 BC. According to legend, he built them for his Persian wife who missed the green hills of her homeland. However, there is no definitive archaeological evidence that they existed in Babylon and some historians believe the accounts may have been romanticized descriptions of other gardens from the time period.
This paper examines archaeological evidence that supports references to historical events and places mentioned in the Quran. It discusses uncovered cities like Babylon, Iram, and Saba. It also mentions prophets like Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, and Moses whose names were found on artifacts like the Ebla tablets and Egyptian hieroglyphs. The paper compares stories in the Quran to archaeological discoveries, like accounts of mummification matching what was found in Egypt. Overall, the paper argues that the historical information provided in the Quran agrees with archaeological findings, providing evidence that the Quran is the word of God.
This document discusses evidence supporting the Ethiopian tradition that the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Ethiopia in 950 BC by Menelik, son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. It summarizes the account in the Kebra Nagast, an Ethiopian epic compiled in 1314 AD, which describes how the eldest sons of Solomon's kingdom stole the Ark and fled to Ethiopia with Menelik. It argues this tradition is supported by inscriptions on incense burners in an Ethiopian church, and that the tradition explains discrepancies in archaeological evidence about the location of pre-586 BC Israel described in the Old Testament.
Your daily itinerary for israel 2012 (3)David Allen
The itinerary provides a detailed schedule for an 11-day study tour of Israel beginning in Tel Aviv and including visits to numerous biblical and historical sites around the country. Some highlights include exploring Caesarea, Megiddo, Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee; touring Petra in Jordan; floating in the Dead Sea; and spending several days in Jerusalem visiting religious sites. The trip concludes with visits to Bethlehem and environs before returning home to Los Angeles.
Final general bilingual holyland 13 d10n 2013tkc12
This document provides a 13-day itinerary for a tour of religious sites in Dubai, Egypt, Israel, and Palestine. The tour begins in Dubai and includes visits to Cairo, Mount Sinai, St. Catherine's Monastery, Taba Heights on the Red Sea, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and other important biblical locations. Each day provides details on the religious and historical sites to be visited, meals included, and overnight accommodations.
The document summarizes the history of the ancient Hebrews. It discusses how they originated as nomadic herders from Mesopotamia who settled in the region of Palestine and developed a monotheistic religion. It describes Abraham's journey from Ur to Canaan, the Exodus story of Moses freeing the Hebrew slaves from Egypt, and the development of the Hebrew civilization and kingdoms under Saul, David, and Solomon. The kingdoms later split and the Israelites were taken into captivity before the Romans destroyed Jerusalem.
Israel is located in the Middle East along the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Egypt, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. Its maritime plain is fertile while much of the southern Negev region is desert. The Jordan River flows through several bodies of water before emptying into the Dead Sea, the lowest elevation on land. According to the Hebrew Bible, the name "Israel" was given to the patriarch Jacob after he wrestled with an angel. His twelve sons became the ancestors of the Israelites. Israel has a parliamentary democracy government with Benjamin Netanyahu currently serving as prime minister. The area has a long history involving many rulers and civilizations over thousands of years.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon were one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built in the ancient city of Babylon in Iraq by King Nebuchadnezzar II between 605-562 BC. According to legend, he built them for his Persian wife who missed the green hills of her homeland. However, there is no definitive archaeological evidence that they existed in Babylon and some historians believe the accounts may have been romanticized descriptions of other gardens from the time period.
Your daily itinerary for israel 2012 (2)David Allen
The document outlines a 12-day itinerary for a study tour of Israel beginning on February 28 and ending on March 12. The tour will include visits to major biblical sites in Tel Aviv, Caesarea, Megiddo, Tiberias, the Sea of Galilee, Petra, the Dead Sea, Masada, Jerusalem, Bethlehem and more. Each day provides details of locations to be visited, historical and religious significance of the sites, meals, and overnight accommodations.
The document outlines a 12-day itinerary for a study tour of Israel beginning in Tel Aviv and including visits to numerous biblical and historical sites around the Sea of Galilee, Jordan Valley, Petra, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem. Guests will be guided by an expert local guide and stay in hotels while enjoying Israeli cuisine and learning about the religion, history, archaeology and culture of Israel through visits to places like Caesarea, Megiddo, Nazareth, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Masada, and the Temple Mount.
The document provides information about several ancient biblical cities:
- Ur was an ancient Mesopotamian city mentioned in Genesis, located in modern-day Iraq. Its ruins include a ziggurat and it is linked to the patriarch Abraham.
- Dothan was a city north of Jerusalem where Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery according to Genesis. It is also mentioned in connection with the prophet Elisha.
- Jericho's walls fell after the Israelites marched around them, as recounted in Joshua. It was later rebuilt and is where Jesus met Zacchaeus.
The rock located under the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem holds great significance for Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Bahá'í Faith according to religious traditions and scriptures. It is believed to be the site where Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac, where both Jewish temples once stood, and where Muhammad ascended to heaven in Islamic tradition. The rock's importance has led to ongoing religious and political disputes over its ownership and use.
Your%20 daily%20itinerary%20for%20israel%202012David Allen
The document outlines a 12-day itinerary for a study tour of Israel beginning in Tel Aviv and including visits to major biblical sites in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee region, Petra in Jordan, and the Dead Sea area. The tour will be led by a local guide and involve guided walks, boat rides, and visits to archaeological sites, churches, and museums to learn about the religion, history, and culture of Israel from biblical times to the present day.
The document provides details about several ancient biblical cities and towns, including Ur, Dothan, Jericho, Jerusalem, Nineveh, Babylon, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Capernaum, and Sychar. It discusses the origins and histories of these places as recounted in the Bible, highlighting important people and events associated with each location. Key points include Abraham leaving Ur for Canaan, Joseph's brothers selling him into slavery in Dothan, Joshua's conquest of Jericho, King David capturing Zion in Jerusalem, Jonah warning Nineveh to repent, Daniel living in Babylon in exile, Jesus being born in Bethlehem and living in Nazareth and Capernaum, and His encounter with a Samaritan
This itinerary provides a 12-day tour of important religious and historical sites in Israel. The tour begins in Tel Aviv and includes visits to Caesarea, Megiddo, Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee, Petra in Jordan, the Dead Sea, Masada, Jerusalem, Bethlehem and more. Tour participants will learn about the significance of these locations from the Bible and history from a knowledgeable guide, and experience the landscapes and sites that help bring the stories of Jesus and ancient Israel to life.
Ancient Israelite Hisory: The Patriarchal PeriodJacob Gluck
The document provides background information on the patriarchal period in ancient Israelite history prior to the Exodus. It discusses the travels and lineages of key patriarchal figures like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It also analyzes the challenges with using the biblical chronology and reconciling the patriarchal narratives with archaeological evidence from the ancient Near East. Scholars debate whether the patriarchal stories preserve authentic historical details from the early 2nd millennium BCE or reflect later compositional periods.
Babylon began as a small village in Mesopotamia but grew to become a major religious and political center, at times being the largest city in the world. Under rulers like Hammurabi and Nebuchadnezzar II, Babylon flourished culturally and economically. However, it also changed hands between various empires through conquest and invasion. By the time of Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Babylon was no longer independent. Though it survived as a regional capital under Persian rule, Babylon never regained its former glory and was eventually abandoned, leaving only ruins behind.
The Holy Land: An Excursion through Faith and HistoryAiman Abdul Haris
Jerusalem, the holy land of three faiths. Yet it is bounded with preposterous rumours and wild accusations.
In this photo journal, the writer proves all the rumours false as he travels across the borders of the iron walls, through the
Judean wilderness and reaching the iconic Temple Mount.
A must read for anyone wanting to know the truth behind what lies in Jerusalem.
The document discusses the history and theories surrounding the Ark of the Covenant. It describes the Ark's construction according to biblical accounts, its role in ancient Israelite religion, and its mysterious disappearance from Jerusalem around 600 BC. The document explores Ethiopian legends claiming the Ark was taken to Axum, Ethiopia and may still be housed there today in a guarded chapel. It also discusses theories that the Knights Templar discovered the Ark and made copies, with one possibly hidden in Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland.
The document provides information about important religious sites in Jerusalem:
1) The Western Wall, also known as the Kotel, is a sacred site where Jews pray and is a remaining part of the ancient Jewish temple that was destroyed by the Romans. Men and women are separated while praying at this holy site.
2) The tunnels of the Kotel allow visitors to walk around and see parts of ancient history below the Western Wall.
3) The Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif plateau is a sacred site for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, being the location where Abraham prepared to sacrifice Isaac and where Solomon built his temple, and now home to the Dome of the Rock Islamic sh
Jerusalem has a long history dating back to Abraham. It has been ruled by many different groups including the Canaanites, Israelites, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, and others. Key events include King David establishing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in 1000 BC, the destruction of the first temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC, the rebuilding of the second temple by the Persians in 516 BC, and the destruction of the second temple by the Romans in 70 AD.
The document discusses the ancient Babylonian civilization and the city of Babylon. It describes how Babylon was the capital city located along the Euphrates River in Mesopotamia. Under King Hammurabi in the 18th century BC, Babylon became the dominant city-state in the region and established itself as a powerful empire. Key aspects of ancient Babylon discussed include the city walls, temples, ziggurats, and other impressive architectural feats such as the Hanging Gardens, built later under King Nebuchadnezzar II.
The history of Judaism began with Abraham around 1800 BCE. Abraham was considered the first Hebrew and the founder of Judaism. His descendants Isaac and Jacob, who took the name Israel, were also important figures. Moses then led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt around 1300 BCE and received the Ten Commandments from God. After periods of rule under judges and kings, the kingdom split and the Israelites were exiled to Babylon in 587 BCE before returning and rebuilding the temple.
The Temple Mount is a holy site located in Jerusalem that is venerated in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It contains the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock and was the site of the First and Second Jewish Temples according to Jewish scripture. The mount is considered the holiest site in Judaism where God's presence is manifested and many Jews will not walk on it to avoid the area of the former Holy of Holies. It is also the third holiest site in Islam where Muhammad ascended to heaven. The competing claims of Judaism and Islam to the site have made it one of the most contested religious locations in the world.
The document provides a historical overview of the ancient Israelites from around 1000 BC to the 1st century AD. It describes how the Israelites established a kingdom in Canaan and developed the religion of Judaism, which was influenced by exile and diaspora. It then outlines the division of Israel into two kingdoms, their conquest by Assyria and Babylon, and the growth of Judaism despite foreign domination by powers like Greece and Rome.
The Old Game-King On The Mountain - Prophecy In The News Magazine April 2007miscott57
The document summarizes an article about plans by Jordan and the Islamic leadership in Jerusalem to build a large minaret on the southeast corner of the Temple Mount, despite objections from religious Jews. It discusses the historical and religious significance of the Temple Mount area in the Bible. Specifically, it notes that the Temple Mount has long been designated by God as His favored place, and recounts biblical figures like Melchizedek, David, and references in Psalm 87 that refer to the area. The document expresses that the building of the minaret further solidifies Islamic control over the area and prevents any Jewish prayer or synagogue there.
The document discusses the seven ancient wonders of the world, focusing on details about the Great Pyramid of Giza. It describes how the pyramids were built to house pharaohs' remains for their journey to the afterlife. An estimated workforce of 10,000 took 30 years to construct each pyramid. The pyramids and Sphinx were precisely aligned with astronomical features.
2 our journey of faith jerusalem at the time of lehi sDouglas Maughan
The document provides background information on Jerusalem in the late 7th and early 6th centuries BC when Lehi lived. It details the political turmoil of the time as Assyria fell and Egypt and Babylon vied for control of the region. Jerusalem had grown substantially due to refugees fleeing the Assyrian conquest. The document also discusses local customs including marriage arrangements, music and celebrations, and the mood in Jerusalem which was anxious due to recent defeats but still had those who believed God would save them.
This document provides a summary of Israelite history from pre-historic times through 1900 CE. It covers the major Middle Eastern empires that ruled the land of Israel/Palestine, the patriarchs of Judaism like Abraham and Moses, the establishment of kingdoms of Israel and Judah, the Babylonian and Persian conquests, Hellenistic Greek rule, Roman rule and the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE which led to the Jewish diaspora. It then discusses the Ottoman Empire's control of Palestine from the 16th century through World War I, the British Mandate period, the UN partition plan and establishment of Israel in 1948.
This document provides commentary from multiple scholars on Ezra 6, which describes King Darius issuing a decree to search for Cyrus' original decree allowing the Jews to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The decree is found in the royal archives in Ecbatana, and confirms Cyrus' order to rebuild the temple and restore temple vessels. Scholars discuss details like where archives were kept, the historic context of Darius and Cyrus, dimensions of the first and second temples, and the significance of Darius' confirmation of Cyrus' decree for allowing the temple reconstruction to continue. The commentary examines implications and reconciles potential issues across versions of the biblical account.
Your daily itinerary for israel 2012 (2)David Allen
The document outlines a 12-day itinerary for a study tour of Israel beginning on February 28 and ending on March 12. The tour will include visits to major biblical sites in Tel Aviv, Caesarea, Megiddo, Tiberias, the Sea of Galilee, Petra, the Dead Sea, Masada, Jerusalem, Bethlehem and more. Each day provides details of locations to be visited, historical and religious significance of the sites, meals, and overnight accommodations.
The document outlines a 12-day itinerary for a study tour of Israel beginning in Tel Aviv and including visits to numerous biblical and historical sites around the Sea of Galilee, Jordan Valley, Petra, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem. Guests will be guided by an expert local guide and stay in hotels while enjoying Israeli cuisine and learning about the religion, history, archaeology and culture of Israel through visits to places like Caesarea, Megiddo, Nazareth, Capernaum, Bethsaida, Masada, and the Temple Mount.
The document provides information about several ancient biblical cities:
- Ur was an ancient Mesopotamian city mentioned in Genesis, located in modern-day Iraq. Its ruins include a ziggurat and it is linked to the patriarch Abraham.
- Dothan was a city north of Jerusalem where Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery according to Genesis. It is also mentioned in connection with the prophet Elisha.
- Jericho's walls fell after the Israelites marched around them, as recounted in Joshua. It was later rebuilt and is where Jesus met Zacchaeus.
The rock located under the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem holds great significance for Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Bahá'í Faith according to religious traditions and scriptures. It is believed to be the site where Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac, where both Jewish temples once stood, and where Muhammad ascended to heaven in Islamic tradition. The rock's importance has led to ongoing religious and political disputes over its ownership and use.
Your%20 daily%20itinerary%20for%20israel%202012David Allen
The document outlines a 12-day itinerary for a study tour of Israel beginning in Tel Aviv and including visits to major biblical sites in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee region, Petra in Jordan, and the Dead Sea area. The tour will be led by a local guide and involve guided walks, boat rides, and visits to archaeological sites, churches, and museums to learn about the religion, history, and culture of Israel from biblical times to the present day.
The document provides details about several ancient biblical cities and towns, including Ur, Dothan, Jericho, Jerusalem, Nineveh, Babylon, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Capernaum, and Sychar. It discusses the origins and histories of these places as recounted in the Bible, highlighting important people and events associated with each location. Key points include Abraham leaving Ur for Canaan, Joseph's brothers selling him into slavery in Dothan, Joshua's conquest of Jericho, King David capturing Zion in Jerusalem, Jonah warning Nineveh to repent, Daniel living in Babylon in exile, Jesus being born in Bethlehem and living in Nazareth and Capernaum, and His encounter with a Samaritan
This itinerary provides a 12-day tour of important religious and historical sites in Israel. The tour begins in Tel Aviv and includes visits to Caesarea, Megiddo, Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee, Petra in Jordan, the Dead Sea, Masada, Jerusalem, Bethlehem and more. Tour participants will learn about the significance of these locations from the Bible and history from a knowledgeable guide, and experience the landscapes and sites that help bring the stories of Jesus and ancient Israel to life.
Ancient Israelite Hisory: The Patriarchal PeriodJacob Gluck
The document provides background information on the patriarchal period in ancient Israelite history prior to the Exodus. It discusses the travels and lineages of key patriarchal figures like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It also analyzes the challenges with using the biblical chronology and reconciling the patriarchal narratives with archaeological evidence from the ancient Near East. Scholars debate whether the patriarchal stories preserve authentic historical details from the early 2nd millennium BCE or reflect later compositional periods.
Babylon began as a small village in Mesopotamia but grew to become a major religious and political center, at times being the largest city in the world. Under rulers like Hammurabi and Nebuchadnezzar II, Babylon flourished culturally and economically. However, it also changed hands between various empires through conquest and invasion. By the time of Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Babylon was no longer independent. Though it survived as a regional capital under Persian rule, Babylon never regained its former glory and was eventually abandoned, leaving only ruins behind.
The Holy Land: An Excursion through Faith and HistoryAiman Abdul Haris
Jerusalem, the holy land of three faiths. Yet it is bounded with preposterous rumours and wild accusations.
In this photo journal, the writer proves all the rumours false as he travels across the borders of the iron walls, through the
Judean wilderness and reaching the iconic Temple Mount.
A must read for anyone wanting to know the truth behind what lies in Jerusalem.
The document discusses the history and theories surrounding the Ark of the Covenant. It describes the Ark's construction according to biblical accounts, its role in ancient Israelite religion, and its mysterious disappearance from Jerusalem around 600 BC. The document explores Ethiopian legends claiming the Ark was taken to Axum, Ethiopia and may still be housed there today in a guarded chapel. It also discusses theories that the Knights Templar discovered the Ark and made copies, with one possibly hidden in Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland.
The document provides information about important religious sites in Jerusalem:
1) The Western Wall, also known as the Kotel, is a sacred site where Jews pray and is a remaining part of the ancient Jewish temple that was destroyed by the Romans. Men and women are separated while praying at this holy site.
2) The tunnels of the Kotel allow visitors to walk around and see parts of ancient history below the Western Wall.
3) The Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif plateau is a sacred site for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, being the location where Abraham prepared to sacrifice Isaac and where Solomon built his temple, and now home to the Dome of the Rock Islamic sh
Jerusalem has a long history dating back to Abraham. It has been ruled by many different groups including the Canaanites, Israelites, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, and others. Key events include King David establishing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in 1000 BC, the destruction of the first temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC, the rebuilding of the second temple by the Persians in 516 BC, and the destruction of the second temple by the Romans in 70 AD.
The document discusses the ancient Babylonian civilization and the city of Babylon. It describes how Babylon was the capital city located along the Euphrates River in Mesopotamia. Under King Hammurabi in the 18th century BC, Babylon became the dominant city-state in the region and established itself as a powerful empire. Key aspects of ancient Babylon discussed include the city walls, temples, ziggurats, and other impressive architectural feats such as the Hanging Gardens, built later under King Nebuchadnezzar II.
The history of Judaism began with Abraham around 1800 BCE. Abraham was considered the first Hebrew and the founder of Judaism. His descendants Isaac and Jacob, who took the name Israel, were also important figures. Moses then led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt around 1300 BCE and received the Ten Commandments from God. After periods of rule under judges and kings, the kingdom split and the Israelites were exiled to Babylon in 587 BCE before returning and rebuilding the temple.
The Temple Mount is a holy site located in Jerusalem that is venerated in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It contains the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock and was the site of the First and Second Jewish Temples according to Jewish scripture. The mount is considered the holiest site in Judaism where God's presence is manifested and many Jews will not walk on it to avoid the area of the former Holy of Holies. It is also the third holiest site in Islam where Muhammad ascended to heaven. The competing claims of Judaism and Islam to the site have made it one of the most contested religious locations in the world.
The document provides a historical overview of the ancient Israelites from around 1000 BC to the 1st century AD. It describes how the Israelites established a kingdom in Canaan and developed the religion of Judaism, which was influenced by exile and diaspora. It then outlines the division of Israel into two kingdoms, their conquest by Assyria and Babylon, and the growth of Judaism despite foreign domination by powers like Greece and Rome.
The Old Game-King On The Mountain - Prophecy In The News Magazine April 2007miscott57
The document summarizes an article about plans by Jordan and the Islamic leadership in Jerusalem to build a large minaret on the southeast corner of the Temple Mount, despite objections from religious Jews. It discusses the historical and religious significance of the Temple Mount area in the Bible. Specifically, it notes that the Temple Mount has long been designated by God as His favored place, and recounts biblical figures like Melchizedek, David, and references in Psalm 87 that refer to the area. The document expresses that the building of the minaret further solidifies Islamic control over the area and prevents any Jewish prayer or synagogue there.
The document discusses the seven ancient wonders of the world, focusing on details about the Great Pyramid of Giza. It describes how the pyramids were built to house pharaohs' remains for their journey to the afterlife. An estimated workforce of 10,000 took 30 years to construct each pyramid. The pyramids and Sphinx were precisely aligned with astronomical features.
2 our journey of faith jerusalem at the time of lehi sDouglas Maughan
The document provides background information on Jerusalem in the late 7th and early 6th centuries BC when Lehi lived. It details the political turmoil of the time as Assyria fell and Egypt and Babylon vied for control of the region. Jerusalem had grown substantially due to refugees fleeing the Assyrian conquest. The document also discusses local customs including marriage arrangements, music and celebrations, and the mood in Jerusalem which was anxious due to recent defeats but still had those who believed God would save them.
This document provides a summary of Israelite history from pre-historic times through 1900 CE. It covers the major Middle Eastern empires that ruled the land of Israel/Palestine, the patriarchs of Judaism like Abraham and Moses, the establishment of kingdoms of Israel and Judah, the Babylonian and Persian conquests, Hellenistic Greek rule, Roman rule and the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE which led to the Jewish diaspora. It then discusses the Ottoman Empire's control of Palestine from the 16th century through World War I, the British Mandate period, the UN partition plan and establishment of Israel in 1948.
This document provides commentary from multiple scholars on Ezra 6, which describes King Darius issuing a decree to search for Cyrus' original decree allowing the Jews to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The decree is found in the royal archives in Ecbatana, and confirms Cyrus' order to rebuild the temple and restore temple vessels. Scholars discuss details like where archives were kept, the historic context of Darius and Cyrus, dimensions of the first and second temples, and the significance of Darius' confirmation of Cyrus' decree for allowing the temple reconstruction to continue. The commentary examines implications and reconciles potential issues across versions of the biblical account.
The early stages of Judaism began with the patriarchs Abraham, Moses, and the Israelites who settled in Canaan at God's command in 1900 BC. The kingdom of Israel was established but later split into the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Both kingdoms were eventually conquered and the Israelites exiled, but maintained their religion. The editing of the Bible began as a way to preserve national identity and history during and after the exile. The diaspora and loss of the temple led to Judaism being centered around synagogues and rabbis rather than the land of Israel.
The document discusses the origins and history of ancient Israel and Judaism. It describes Abraham as the patriarch who was told by God to establish a great nation. His descendants, the Israelites, settled in Canaan which they considered the Promised Land. The Torah contains the first five books of the Hebrew Bible. Important figures that led the Israelites included Moses, who received the Ten Commandments from God and led the Exodus from Egypt, and Joshua who conquered Canaan.
The Dome of the Rock, often represented with an Islamic crescent on top, became the image for the Temple in Jewish, Christian and Moslem art for over 500 years. How and why this historical anomaly persisted is the subject of a fascinating in-depth study of Jewish, Christian and Moslem imagery and its interpretation spanning more than 2,000 years of biblical & later history by Dr. Pamela Berger, professor of Medieval Art at Boston College, Boston, MA.
This document provides a lengthy preface and introduction to the English translation of "The Këbra Nagast", an important Ethiopian text that contains legends and traditions related to the lineage of Ethiopian monarchy. The summary is:
1) The Këbra Nagast is venerated in Ethiopia as proof of their descent from Hebrew patriarchs and lineage of kings from King Solomon.
2) The text was originally compiled in Coptic in the 6th century AD and later translated to Arabic and Ethiopic.
3) The translator Isaac believed the text proved Ethiopian kings were descended from King Solomon and the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Ethiopia, making their kingdom the rightful
The first Israelites built a small kingdom in Canaan around 1000 BC and practiced monotheism, believing in one God. Their religion became known as Judaism. Over centuries of exile and conquest, the Israelites/Jews developed their religious traditions and identity, establishing the foundations for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. They were eventually conquered by the Romans in 63 BC.
Ancient Babylonia was located between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in modern-day Iraq. The Babylonian Empire lasted from the 18th-17th centuries BC and was a powerful civilization for about 100 years under King Hammurabi's rule. Babylonia had many major cities with populations between 10,000-50,000 people. The Babylonians made important contributions to mathematics, astronomy, law, and architecture. They built ziggurats and temples to their polytheistic gods like Marduk, Ishtar, and Tiamat.
The earliest historical reference to Judaism comes from the Torah, which describes the exodus of Jews from Egypt to Canaan around 2000 BC. Abraham is considered the first Jewish patriarch and introduced monotheism to the region in 1800 BC. Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt around 1300-1200 BC and received the Ten Commandments from God at Mount Sinai. The Kingdom of Israel was established but divided into Israel and Judah after Solomon's death in 922 BC. Both kingdoms fell to the Assyrians and Babylonians by 722 and 586 BC, respectively, destroying Jewish temples and exiling many Jews. After almost 2000 years of diaspora, the modern state of Israel was established in
The document provides details about the ancient Babylonian civilization that was centered around the city of Babylon in Mesopotamia. Some key points:
- Babylon was the capital city of the Babylonian Empire, located along the Euphrates River in modern-day Iraq. It was a major economic and religious center famous for its large size and architecture.
- The Babylonian civilization developed advanced irrigation systems for agriculture and built grand structures like temples and walls, including the famed Hanging Gardens and the Ishtar Gate.
- Under King Hammurabi in the 18th century BC, Babylon became the dominant city-state after he established a legal code and unified the region into an empire
The document provides details about the ancient Babylonian civilization that was centered around the city of Babylon in Mesopotamia. Some key points:
- Babylon was the capital of the region of Babylonia, located along the Euphrates River in modern-day Iraq. It was a very wealthy and powerful city known for its large size and impressive architecture.
- The Babylonian civilization developed advanced systems of irrigation and agriculture to cultivate crops like barley and wheat. They also herded animals.
- King Hammurabi, who ruled from 1792-1750 BC, unified Babylonia through conquest and established one of the earliest known codes of law.
- Babylon was known
Similar to Freemasonry 168 the two great pillars of solomon's temple (20)
263 the declaration of arbroath in englishColinJxxx
The Declaration of Arbroath was a letter sent in 1320 AD to Pope John XXII by Scottish nobles asserting Scotland's independence from England. It details Scotland's long history as an independent kingdom ruled by its own kings for over 100 years. It protests England's recent invasions and violence against Scotland. The letter requests that the Pope pressure England to leave Scotland in peace so its people can defend their freedom, which they are willing to fight and die to maintain against English rule.
262 the declaration of arbroath in the original latinColinJxxx
The Declaration of Arbroath was a letter written in 1320 by Scottish nobles to Pope John XXII asserting Scotland's independence from England. It describes how Scotland has maintained independence and resisted English attacks for over 1,000 years since first settling in the region. It asks the Pope to persuade the King of England to leave Scotland in peace and allow its people to govern themselves freely without English domination as they have for centuries. It threatens that if the Pope does not support Scotland's cause, violence and harm will continue between the two countries.
Masonic ceremonies are a means to impart the principles of Freemasonry to new members through drama and symbolism. The ceremonies have changed and developed over time from simple questions and answers in the 17th century to more elaborate rituals today. A key development was in 1813-1816 when a Lodge of Reconciliation standardized the rituals across English lodges, expanding the ceremonies while removing Christian references to make Masonry appealing to men of all faiths. The basic structure and purpose of the ceremonies remains the same, using drama and symbols to introduce new members, though interpretations by individual writers are not sanctioned by the governing Grand Lodge.
Freemasonry 256 the mystic symbolism of the shriners emblemsColinJxxx
The emblem of the Mystic Shriners incorporates several Masonic symbols with mystical meanings. The original emblem included a keystone containing the head of a sphinx, tiger claws forming a crescent moon, and other symbols like a pyramid and urn. Over time variants emerged, sometimes connecting the crescent and scimitar with ropes or chains representing Masonic ties. The emblem's symbols draw from Masonic influences like the keystone, mystical traditions, and aim to unite Shriners under their fraternal organization while still honoring individual faiths.
Freemasonry 259 history of freemasonry among negroes 1946- davies h eColinJxxx
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive function. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms for those who already suffer from conditions like anxiety and depression.
Freemasonry 258 second degree tracing board research fileColinJxxx
The document provides summaries of key terms and people from the biblical story of Jephthah and the Ammonites. It describes:
- Jephthah as a judge of Israel who was cast out and became a leader of outlaws. He made a rash vow to sacrifice whoever greeted him upon returning from battle. Unfortunately, this was his daughter.
- The Ammonites as descendants of Lot who lived northeast of the Dead Sea and caused problems for the Israelites. King Saul defeated them, uniting the tribes of Israel.
- Details around Jephthah's battle with the Ammonites, his daughter greeting him, and his fulfillment of his vow by sacrificing her.
Freemasonry 257 freemasonry in 18th century izmir - boogertColinJxxx
This document provides background information on Alexander Drummond and examines his claim to have established the first Freemason lodge in Izmir, Turkey in the 18th century. It outlines Drummond's career, including his time as British Consul in Aleppo, Syria, and discusses his only published work from 1754 which described a trip through Europe and Asia and mentioned founding a Freemason lodge in Izmir. However, other accounts from the time period do not corroborate the existence of this lodge. The document aims to determine if Drummond did indeed establish the lodge and provide more details about its members and duration.
Freemasonry 251 reflected rays of light upon freemasonryColinJxxx
This document is the preface to a book titled "Reflected Lights upon Freemasonry" written by Bro. Wm. Garey and Bro. James Stevenson in 1909. It is dedicated to the Right Honorable the Earl of Balhousie. The preface explains that the book is intended as an introductory work for Masonic neophytes to prepare them for further study of Freemasonry. It aims to display the beauties of Freemasonry in a brief yet comprehensive manner and at an affordable price in a convenient format. The author hopes it will serve to awaken dormant Masons and stimulate them to learn more about the Order.
Freemasonry 255 robert burns & freemasonry 1921- wright dColinJxxx
This document discusses Robert Burns' involvement with Freemasonry. It notes that Burns was initiated into the St. David's Lodge in Tarbolton in 1781 at age 23. Freemasonry then became a great influence on him. The document outlines how Burns' interactions with brethren of higher social standing through the Lodge helped refine his manners and stimulate his intellectual abilities. Freemasonry also inspired his muse and nurtured his love of independence and brotherhood. Burns enthusiastically participated in Freemasonry wherever he went.
There has been a Freemason's Lodge in Burntisland, Scotland for 153 years called Lodge Dunearn, which was chartered in 1859. Freemasonry originated from medieval stonemason guilds. Records show stonemasons belonging to Burntisland's Hammermen's Guild as early as 1648. By the late 1850s, Burntisland had grown large enough to support its own Masonic Lodge, and Lodge Dunearn was established with over 100 Freemasons in attendance at its consecration. Lodge Dunearn has met in various buildings over the years, and has had a permanent home at 22 and 24 Somerville Street since 1916.
This document provides summaries of several books related to Freemasonry and secret societies. It begins with books that are critical of Freemasonry from a Christian perspective and argue it conflicts with biblical teachings. It then lists books that explore the history and origins of Freemasonry, examining theories about connections to the Knights Templar and its role in American history. Some titles delve into Freemason symbols and rituals. Conspiracy theories about Freemason influence are also addressed. The document serves as a guide to materials for researching Freemasonry from different perspectives.
Freemasonry 247 the book of the words - albert pikeColinJxxx
The document appears to be excerpts from a book on Masonic language and symbols published in 1722. It includes a preface addressed to Masonic brothers that discusses Masonic principles of brotherhood, religion, and wisdom. It references symbolic Masonic concepts and structures only understood by those "illuminated with the Sublime Mysteries and profound Secrets of Masonry." The preface encourages brothers to seek enlightenment and to contemplate the celestial Masonry of the divine architect.
Freemasonry 246 the symbolism of freemasonry - albert.g.mackey.ColinJxxx
This document provides an overview of the author's theory on the origin and progression of Freemasonry. It argues that:
1) Freemasonry originated from ancient truths about God and immortality that were communicated to early humans.
2) These truths were preserved by Noah and the Noachites after the flood, but many later seceded and lost the truths.
3) A few retained the truths fully, while some retained fragments and communicated them symbolically in ancient mysteries and religions.
4) Masonic philosophy originated from these early holders of the truths, while its rituals developed more recently.
Freemasonry 250 the true masonic chart 1826 - j.l.crossColinJxxx
This document summarizes the contents and purpose of a digital book provided by Google Book Search. It explains that the book was scanned from a physical copy to make it available online since it is in the public domain. The document also provides guidelines for using public domain books from Google, including maintaining attribution and not assuming works are legal to use worldwide. It closes by restating Google's mission to organize information and help authors/publishers with its book search service.
Freemasonry 249 the mysteries of freemasonry - capt. william morganColinJxxx
This document provides an overview of the initiation ceremony for entering the first degree of Freemasonry as an Entered Apprentice Mason. It describes the opening of the Masonic lodge, including positioning of officers and their duties. It then details the questions asked of a candidate seeking admission, the preparation of stripping him partially naked and blindfolding him, leading him around the lodge three times while Scripture is read, and the questions posed to him at each station.
This document provides excerpts from several books of Enoch, which are considered apocryphal texts. In the excerpts:
- Section 25 of 1 Enoch describes Enoch's vision of seven mountains, one of which held a fragrant tree and throne.
- Section 46 introduces the "Head of Days" and the "Son of Man."
- Sections 71-72 of 1 Enoch and excerpts from 2-3 Enoch recount Enoch's ascension to heaven and visions of God's throne and heavenly realms.
- Chapter 4 of 3 Enoch identifies Metatron as the transformed Enoch, who was taken to heaven to witness against sinful
Freemasonry 242 the great light of freemasonry - b.allenColinJxxx
This document is an oration delivered by Rev. B. Allen at Phoenix Lodge in Chester County, Pennsylvania in 1827. The oration aims to prove that the Bible is the "Great Light of Masonry" and that all Freemasons are bound to read, obey, pray over, and spread the Bible to the ends of the earth. Allen provides nine proofs from the oration for why Masonry is correct in asserting that the Bible is the great light, including the Bible's continued existence despite persecution, the purity of its doctrines, its effects on mankind, fulfilled prophecies, supporting miracles, agreement with ancient traditions, corroborating monuments, and careful preservation throughout history.
This document provides an introduction to Gnosticism and the Gnostic Bible. It discusses how Gnostics sought direct knowledge of God without religious officials as intermediaries. Heresiologists condemned Gnostics as heretical threats, but Gnostic theology also influenced mainstream Christian thought. Gnostics embraced wisdom from diverse sources and provided innovative interpretations of creation stories, distinguishing a transcendent deity from a flawed creator. They believed gnosis, or direct knowledge, allowed salvation by reconnecting with the divine light within.
Freemasonry 245 a lexicon of masonry - a.g.mackeyColinJxxx
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for both physical and mental health. It states that regular exercise can reduce the risk of diseases like heart disease and diabetes, improve mood, and reduce feelings of stress and depression. The document also notes that even moderate exercise provides benefits and that it's never too late to start becoming more physically active.
ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, and GDPR: Best Practices for Implementation and...PECB
Denis is a dynamic and results-driven Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a distinguished career spanning information systems analysis and technical project management. With a proven track record of spearheading the design and delivery of cutting-edge Information Management solutions, he has consistently elevated business operations, streamlined reporting functions, and maximized process efficiency.
Certified as an ISO/IEC 27001: Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) Lead Implementer, Data Protection Officer, and Cyber Risks Analyst, Denis brings a heightened focus on data security, privacy, and cyber resilience to every endeavor.
His expertise extends across a diverse spectrum of reporting, database, and web development applications, underpinned by an exceptional grasp of data storage and virtualization technologies. His proficiency in application testing, database administration, and data cleansing ensures seamless execution of complex projects.
What sets Denis apart is his comprehensive understanding of Business and Systems Analysis technologies, honed through involvement in all phases of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). From meticulous requirements gathering to precise analysis, innovative design, rigorous development, thorough testing, and successful implementation, he has consistently delivered exceptional results.
Throughout his career, he has taken on multifaceted roles, from leading technical project management teams to owning solutions that drive operational excellence. His conscientious and proactive approach is unwavering, whether he is working independently or collaboratively within a team. His ability to connect with colleagues on a personal level underscores his commitment to fostering a harmonious and productive workplace environment.
Date: May 29, 2024
Tags: Information Security, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Artificial Intelligence, GDPR
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The simplified electron and muon model, Oscillating Spacetime: The Foundation...RitikBhardwaj56
Discover the Simplified Electron and Muon Model: A New Wave-Based Approach to Understanding Particles delves into a groundbreaking theory that presents electrons and muons as rotating soliton waves within oscillating spacetime. Geared towards students, researchers, and science buffs, this book breaks down complex ideas into simple explanations. It covers topics such as electron waves, temporal dynamics, and the implications of this model on particle physics. With clear illustrations and easy-to-follow explanations, readers will gain a new outlook on the universe's fundamental nature.
This presentation was provided by Steph Pollock of The American Psychological Association’s Journals Program, and Damita Snow, of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), for the initial session of NISO's 2024 Training Series "DEIA in the Scholarly Landscape." Session One: 'Setting Expectations: a DEIA Primer,' was held June 6, 2024.
Strategies for Effective Upskilling is a presentation by Chinwendu Peace in a Your Skill Boost Masterclass organisation by the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan on 08th and 09th June 2024 from 1 PM to 3 PM on each day.
हिंदी वर्णमाला पीपीटी, hindi alphabet PPT presentation, hindi varnamala PPT, Hindi Varnamala pdf, हिंदी स्वर, हिंदी व्यंजन, sikhiye hindi varnmala, dr. mulla adam ali, hindi language and literature, hindi alphabet with drawing, hindi alphabet pdf, hindi varnamala for childrens, hindi language, hindi varnamala practice for kids, https://www.drmullaadamali.com
How to Manage Your Lost Opportunities in Odoo 17 CRMCeline George
Odoo 17 CRM allows us to track why we lose sales opportunities with "Lost Reasons." This helps analyze our sales process and identify areas for improvement. Here's how to configure lost reasons in Odoo 17 CRM
How to Make a Field Mandatory in Odoo 17Celine George
In Odoo, making a field required can be done through both Python code and XML views. When you set the required attribute to True in Python code, it makes the field required across all views where it's used. Conversely, when you set the required attribute in XML views, it makes the field required only in the context of that particular view.
A review of the growth of the Israel Genealogy Research Association Database Collection for the last 12 months. Our collection is now passed the 3 million mark and still growing. See which archives have contributed the most. See the different types of records we have, and which years have had records added. You can also see what we have for the future.
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty, In...Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty,
International FDP on Fundamentals of Research in Social Sciences
at Integral University, Lucknow, 06.06.2024
By Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
A workshop hosted by the South African Journal of Science aimed at postgraduate students and early career researchers with little or no experience in writing and publishing journal articles.
South African Journal of Science: Writing with integrity workshop (2024)
Freemasonry 168 the two great pillars of solomon's temple
1. [As far as I am aware this document is in the Public Domain,
if you know otherwise,
please contact me at
colin49mail-index@yahoo.co.uk
Colin J…]
THE TWO GREAT PILLARS OF SOLOMON'S TEMPLE
by W.B.Don Falconer
ORIGINS OF THE TEMPLE
A knowledge of the predecessors of King Solomon's temple at Jerusalem helps to establish a
true appreciation of the significance of the two great pillars at its porch or entrance. The
temple must be seen in its historical perspective and its importance in the lives of the people
of that era must be understood. Because of Egypt's role in the history of the Hebrews, as well
as the cultural and intellectual links between the two nations before and during the
construction of the temple at Jerusalem, it had always been thought that the model on which
the temple was based must have been of Egyptian origin. However, archaeological
excavations carried out since the 1930s in Iraq, Syria and the Levant generally, now provide
strong evidence that the temple built by King Solomon was not of Egyptian heritage, but that
it belonged in a direct line of tradition that had been established long before in the countries
bordering the eastern Mediterranean. There is evidence that significant changes in human
attitudes to the divinity were being brought about by this tradition during the 2,000 years
preceding the construction of the temple at Jerusalem.
The first temple to be discovered in this line of tradition was a small sanctuary adjacent to the
ancient royal palace at Tell Ta'Yinat in northern Syria, which was excavated during the early
1930s. During the 1950s a Canaanite temple in the same tradition was discovered during the
excavation of the ancient lower city of Hazor in northern Palestine. The city had only been
occupied for about 500 years, when it was destroyed and burnt some 500 years before the
construction of the temple at Jerusalem, but it was never inhabited again. During the 1970s,
excavations on the banks of the Euphrates River at Lake el-Assad, revealed four similar
temples at Emar that had been constructed between 200 and 400 years before the temple at
Jerusalem. Other temples of similar design have since been discovered at Ebla and
Moumbaqat in Syria, predating the temple at Jerusalem by about 800 years. The oldest known
temples of this type so far discovered are three at Tell Chuera, in the foothills of the Taurus
Mountains of Asia Minor, all dating from around 2500 BC. These temples are not like
Egyptian temples of that period, but have characteristics similar to those of King Solomon's
temple, being elongated about 3:1 in plan and subdivided into compartments, with a single
entrance at the eastern end of the building and a holy place at the western end.
Notwithstanding the similarities in the temple layouts in Palestine and Syria, it is evident from
the diversity of their dimensions and details that King Solomon's temple was not copied from
a single design, but rather that it followed a general type that allowed for a logical progression
2. from the profane outside world to the sacred inner sanctum. The deep significance of this is
reflected in the Bible by the names given to the various parts of the temple. The main features
of the temple at Jerusalem were: the ulam, the porch or entrance at the eastern end fronted by
two columns; the ulam opened into the hekhal, the hall for daily worship, presentation of
offerings, divine service and the performance of the ritual; the hekhal gave entrance to the
debir at the western end, which was the Holy of Holies where the Ark of the Covenant was
kept and where God was said to dwell.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
When man first emerged from his Stone Age existence and learnt to erect primitive shelters,
he developed a desire to build shrines or temples wherein he could worship the supreme being
in his own "house". Modern research, supported by archaeological discoveries in the countries
bordering the eastern Mediterranean, indicate that the original Tower of Babel probably
would have been in existence by about 4800 BC. It is the first structure mentioned in the
Bible and is named after Babel, one of the chief cities founded by Nimrod in the land of
Sumer, or ancient Babylon. No direct archaeological evidence has yet been found to confirm
the existence of a city and tower at Babylon before about 1800EBC, but a text of
Sharkalisharri, the king of Agade about 2250 BC, mentions his restoration of the temple-tower
or ziggurat at Babylon, which implies the existence of an earlier sacred city on the site.
It is now believed that the ziggurat built by Ur-Nammu, the king of Ur about 2100 BC,
replaced much earlier Towers of Babel. These ziggurats comprised a series of superimposed
platforms, each from about 10 to 20 metres in height and progressively diminishing in area,
which were surmounted by a temple to which it was thought that God would descend to
communicate with mankind. Access to the temple was gained by a series of ramps or
stairways.
Abraham was born Abram, high father, probably around 1900EBC in Ur of the Chaldees. He
was a son of Terah and a descendant of Shem, who became the ancestor of the Hebrew race.
Abram lived in idolatrous times, but believed in one God. He was a man of outstanding faith
and was known as the "Friend of God". When his father died, Abram moved to Harran in the
far north of Syria, where he received God's call at the age of 75, when Yahweh promised him
the whole of the land south-west of the Euphrates River. He then journeyed into Canaan
where he rescued Lot, defeated the Amorites and met Melchizedek. God renewed his
covenant with Abram, who then changed his name to Abraham, father of a multitude. Within
a year of this event Abraham was 100, when his son Isaac was born, but he lived for another
75 years. Famine in Canaan and the Negeb was the reason why Isaac's son Jacob, known as
the "father of the chosen people", led the Israelites into Egypt. The migration into Egypt was
at the invitation of Jacob's son Joseph, who had been sold into slavery in Egypt many years
before, but later became a viceroy there. Moses, the great leader and lawgiver who delivered
the Israelites to within reach of the promised land of their forefathers, was born in Egypt
when a decree was in force commanding the slaying of all male Hebrew children. He was
saved by the compassion of the daughter of the Pharaoh, possibly Queen Hatshepshut who
later assumed the throne of Egypt. Moses was born into the tribe of Levi, who were priests
from birth.
The Israelites had lived for about 430 years in the delta area of Egypt and were being
subjected to increasing hardship and oppression, when they fled under the leadership of
Moses around 1280 BC. During their Exodus the Israelites led a semi-nomadic existence,
wandering through the wilderness of Sinai and the desert lands of Edom for 40 years, before
3. finally crossing the Jordan River and reaching their "promised land". Because of their
wanderings the Patriarchs could not build a permanent shrine for worship, as had been the
custom in every city in Mesopotamia even before Abraham had left there in answer to God's
call. Early in their wanderings the Israelites had lapsed into idolatry, when Moses spent forty
days on Mount Sinai and received the stone tablets bearing the Ten Commandments, which
were regarded as the "title deed" of Israel's covenant with God. It was then that God
commanded Moses to construct a portable shrine and the Ark of the Covenant. The
Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary, or "tent of congregation", in which the Ark of the
Covenant was kept and in which it was said that "God dwelt among the Israelites" in the
desert. However, the Tabernacle continued to be used as the provisional meeting place of God
and his people long after the entry of the Israelites into Canaan. Under the Judges it was at
Shiloh and in Saul's reign it was first at Nob and later at Gibeon.
When King David had consolidated his power and built a permanent palace for himself, the
lack of a permanent shrine of Yahweh seemed invidious to him. It is recorded in the New
English Bible version of 2 Samuel 7, verse 2 that King David said: "Here I live in a house of
cedar, while the Ark of God is housed in curtains". However, it is recorded in I Chronicles 22,
verse 8, that the Lord forbade King David from building the temple because his hands were
stained with the blood of his enemies, but said he would have a son, Solomon, who would be
known as a "Man of Peace" and build the temple. Nevertheless King David purchased the site
of the temple, the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. It was within the area now called
Haram es-Sherif on Mount Moriah, at the eastern side of the "Old City" of Jerusalem. The
precise location is uncertain, but it is believed that the highest part of the rock, which is now
occupied by the mosque known as The Dome of the Rock, probably was the site of the Holy
of Holies. King David also gathered treasure and collected materials for the building of the
temple, which he entrusted to his son and successor, the wise King Solomon. It also is
recorded in 1 Chronicles 22, verse 6, that when King David was on his deathbed "He sent for
Solomon his son and charged him to build a house for the Lord the God of Israel".
THE TEMPLE
King Solomon commenced the actual construction of the temple in the fourth year of his reign
and completed it seven years later, around 950 BC. He had entered into a treaty with Hiram
King of Tyre, whereby Hiram permitted Solomon to obtain cedar and cypress wood and
blocks of stone from Lebanon. Furthermore, Solomon's workmen were permitted to fell the
timber and quarry and hew the stones under the direction of Hiram's skilled workmen. In
addition, Solomon also had the services of a skilled Tyrian artisan named Huram, who took
charge of the castings and the manufacture of the more valuable furniture and furnishings of
the temple. In return, Solomon sent supplies of wheat, oil and wine to Hiram. The temple
building at Jerusalem was 60 cubits long and 20 cubits wide, with it axis oriented east-west. It
comprised the ulam or porch at the eastern end, which was 10 cubits along the axis of the
temple and 20 cubits wide. The porch gave entrance to the hekhal or Holy Place, which was
40 cubits along the axis of the temple and 20 cubits wide. Contrary to popular perception, the
Holy Place was accessible only to the priests. Members of the public were only admitted to
the surrounding courtyards, according to their status. At the western end the debir, the inner
sanctuary or Holy of Holies, was a perfect cube of 20 cubit sides. The Holy of Holies
probably was accessible only to the high priest during the atonement ceremony, once a year.
There can be no doubt that King Solomon's temple at Jerusalem was a magnificent edifice,
surpassing anything that had preceded it. It was noted for the lavish beauty of its detail and
4. finish, not for its size. The stone walls were lined inside with cedar carved with cherubim,
palms, garlands and opening flowers. The ceilings also were lined with cedar and the floor
was planked with cypress. The floor, walls and ceiling were all overlaid with thin plates of
gold. The Holy of Holies was separated from the Holy Place by double doors of cypress and
screened with a veil. The doors probably were left at least partly open to provide light,
because there were no windows in the inner sanctuary. Within the Holy of Holies there were
two cherubim carved from olive wood and overlaid with gold, standing 10 cubits high with
the tips of their outstretched wings touching over the Ark of the Covenant. The Holy Place
was lit by latticed windows near the ceiling in the north and south walls.
The temple proper was surrounded on the north, west and south by chambers three stories
high, which served as storerooms, offices and possibly also as accommodation for the priests.
There was no entrance to these chambers from inside the temple, but an external door on the
south side of the chambers, near the eastern end, gave access to an internal spiral staircase to
the upper floors. The whole structure was on a platform elevated above the terraced
courtyards that completely surrounded it. The priests gained access to the porch of the temple
by ten steps from the upper or inner court, which was raised above the great or outer court
that surrounded it, requiring eight steps to ascend. The brazen altar, brazen sea and the lavers
were in the upper court, where the sacrifices and other ceremonials took place, which the
public in the outer court could watch, but they could not mingle with the participants. The
outer court also was raised above the general environment, requiring seven steps to ascend.
The courts were enclosed within walls made of three courses of hewn stone, surmounted by a
row of cedar beams. It appears that porticos and vestibules were provided at the entrance
gates to the outer court.
THE PILLARS
King Solomon set up the two great pillars, one on each side of the porch. The pillars were free
standing and did not support a porch roof. Viewing them from within the Holy Place, whilst
looking through the door towards the east, King Solomon named the right pillar Jachin (at the
south-east corner of the temple) and the left pillar Boaz (at the north-east corner of the
temple). The pillars were hollow, 18 cubits high and four fingers thick. The suggestion that
they were used as archives to store the constitutional rolls is an embellishment that is not
founded on fact. They were cast hollow to save scarce materials and reduce their weight. Each
pillar was surmounted by a double capital having a combined height of 5 cubits, probably cast
in two parts. The lower part, or chapiter, was lotus work comprising four opened and everted
petals, each 4 cubits wide. The upper part, or capital, was a bowl rather than a sphere and did
not represent either of the then known terrestrial and celestial spheres as is usually stated.
Modern research indicates that the bowl surmounting each pillar probably was a vessel to
contain oil which could be ignited and would burn steadily. Archaeological investigations
reveal that similar decorated pillars were used in Palestine and Cypress during the period
1000 BC to 900 BC. The bases of similar pillars have been uncovered at the sites of the
temples at Hazor and Tell Ta'Yinat, which also had two columns at their entrances. Herodotus
484-425EBC, the Greek historian known as the "Father of History", also described two great
pillars near the temple of Hercules at Tyre which "shone at night".
The Tyrians cast the hollow columns vertically in moulds dug in the ground, using the "lost
wax" method that had been developed by the Assyrians during the Bronze Age, in the time of
Sennacherib probably around 1200EBC. Using this method the outer mould is formed
concentrically around an inner mould of sand or other suitable material that is coated with
5. wax which melts away and allows the casting to be removed when it has cooled. As these
pillars were common in Syria, Phoenicia and Cyprus at that time, the Tyrians undoubtedly
would have had a great influence on the design of the pillars for the temple at Jerusalem.
These immense fire altars or incense stands were similar to their Phoenician counterparts and
would have illuminated the facade of the temple on Mount Moriah at night, whilst also
catching the first glint of sunrise in Jerusalem and producing a cloud of dark smoke during the
day.
The two great pillars were completed and dedicated before the completion of the temple. It is
often said that they were named to enshrine the memory of King David's ancestry through his
maternal line because Jachin occurs as a Simeonite name and also in a priestly family, as well
as through his paternal line because Boaz, a wealthy landowner of Bethlehem, was the great
grandfather of David. However, it has been shown convincingly that the names of the pillars
were the key words of oracles who sought to bestow power on the dynasty of David and to
express Solomon's gratitude to the Almighty prior to the dedication of the temple, using
words such as: "Yahweh will establish (yakin) thy throne for ever" and "In Yahweh is the
king's strength (boaz)". The two great pillars at the entrance to King Solomon's temple at
Jerusalem have also been interpreted as sacred obelisks with their blazing, smoking wicks
recalling to the worshippers the pillars of fire and cloud that led Israel of old through the
wilderness.
LATER HISTORY
In ancient times, temples not only were the focus of religious activity, but often were the real
centres of power in a region, especially when the priesthood was in the ascendancy. Temples
also served as state treasuries, being filled with booty when the nation was powerful and
overrunning its enemies, or emptied to pay tributes to its overlords when in a state of
oppression. The temple constructed by King Solomon at Jerusalem was no exception. During
the long period of affluence when King Solomon was at peace with the neighbouring peoples,
but used forced labour and imposed excessive taxation to carry out his building projects, huge
quantities of treasure were accumulated in the temple. Rehoboam, King Solomon' son by the
Ammonite princess Naamah, assumed power around 930 BC. Spurred on by hot-headed
contemporaries, Rehoboam told the people that they would be taxed and punished even more
severely than before, which brought an end to the loose confederation of tribes that ostensibly
had been a united kingdom. Ten of the twelve tribes revolted under the leadership of
Jeroboam, who previously had incurred the wrath of Solomon. Jeroboam became the first
king of the kingdom of Israel in the north.
Rehoboam remained king of the kingdom of Judah, based in Jerusalem. As he feared the
interests of Shishak, the king of Egypt who had encouraged Jeroboam in his activities,
Rehoboam fortified the cities of Judah, including Bethlehem. Judah also was strengthened by
an influx of priests and Levites who had deserted the northern kingdom in protest against the
breakdown in religious practises that had become prevalent there. Rehoboam and his subjects
prospered for a time, until idolatrous practises gradually corrupted their worship of God,
when around 925 BC Shishak raided the temple and the palace, took all the treasures of
Jerusalem as a tribute and established his rule over the land, as recorded in I Kings 14, verses
25-28. The prophet Shemaiah pointed out that these calamities had occurred because the
nation had sinned in the sight of God, which led Rehoboam and his people to repent. When
Shishak departed several years later the worship of God was restored. Rehoboam was not a
great king and his reign was marked by sporadic wars with the northern kingdom, which
6. continued until his death around 915 BC. Nevertheless, he was buried among the "good
kings" in the city of David.
Later kings used accumulated treasure to purchase the friendship of allies, or to pay tribute to
buy off invaders, including Hezekiah during some thirteen years when he was co-regent with
Ahaz. Hezekiah became the sole king of Judah around 715 BC and became one of its most
outstanding kings, renowned for his exceptional piety, his measures for religious reform and
his vigorous political activities. He reopened the temple, cleansed it of everything that made it
unfit for use and restored true worship. He also reaffirmed the ancient covenant between
Yahweh and Israel and re-established the celebration of the Passover on an unprecedented
scale, which at his invitation was attended by many Israelites from the northern kingdom.
Hezekiah is also renowned for building a reservoir and tunnel to supply fresh water to within
the city walls of Jerusalem, as recorded in II Kings 20, verse 20 and in II Chronicles 32, verse
30. Mannaseh, the son of Hezekiah, was co-regent with his father for the last ten years of his
father's reign until Hezekiah died, probably around 685 BC.
After Hezekiah there were idolatrous kings who desecrated the temple and allowed it to fall
into decay until the time of Josiah, more than three centuries after the construction of the
temple, when it was in need of extensive repairs which had to be financed by contributions
from the worshippers. Josiah carried out an even more thorough reformation than that of
Hezekiah, which included the destruction of all the "high places" that had been used in
idolatrous worship. He eliminated every vestige of heathen worship and reinstated the
celebration of the Passover at a level that surpassing even that of Hezekiah. Josiah died in
battle at Megiddo around 609 BC, when Necho II the King of Egypt was advancing through
Palestine to help the Assyrians at Harran. Despite the strongest assurances to the contrary,
Josiah thought that the Egyptians were a threat to his kingdom and opposed him. Finally,
during the reign of Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, the temple was looted by
Nebuchradezzar, the king of Babylon, who sacked Jerusalem in 587 BC. In II Kings 35, verse
13, it is recorded that the two great pillars were broken up and the metal was carried off to
Babylon. It is of interest to note that in Ezekiel's vision of the ideal temple, during his exile in
Babylon, the two great pillars were replaced by wooden columns.