Bible and Archaeology through a Tour of the City of David

Jerusalem is mentioned almost 700 times in the Hebrew Bible, a Holy Book that shaped civilizations and religions throughout history. This course, and the tour it offers, gives you the opportunity to experience the biblical story of Jerusalem’s beginnings precisely at the site in which the dramatic biblical events actually took place. It is in the City of David that fascinating archaeological remnants were discovered, artifacts that provide the backdrop for the biblical events.

What  will you do in this course:

• You will gain a visual and a physical understanding of the ancient city of Jerusalem.

• You will learn the city’s biblical story in detail.

• You will hear analysis and explanation about the newest archeological discoveries in the city of David.

• You will obtain a better understanding of the relationship between the Hebrew Bible and archaeology.

• You will be given a real tour in the City of David by one of the site’s official senior tour guides.

Knowing the area around the City of David – the Temple Mount, the Old City, Mount Zion, and other prominent structures in the surrounding area. Understanding the topographical landscape around the City of David as well as its respective location vis-a-vis the bible.

Comprehensive understanding of Jerusalem's ancient location by the Canaanites, learning about the oldest fortifications to be found in Jerusalem including the oldest water system to be found in Israel within the City of David.

Learn about the historical background of the conquest of Jerusalem by King David as well as the significant changes King David made with regards to Jerusalem's change of political status.

An overview of one of Israel's most important archaeological excavations – the top of the City of David. This includes an intimate survey of the unique large structure which crowned the peak of the ancient city. An analysis of the proposal which identifies this location as King David's palace according to the archaeological survey in light of the biblical account.

You will learn the biblical story of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem in the time of King Hezekiah 2700 years ago. We will understand Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat on Jerusalem according to the findings in the City of David. We will learn about the fate then of Jerusalem in one of the most horrifying moments during the first temple period.

You will learn where the location of the royal headquarters which was in Jerusalem during the first temple period based on the household's objects found in the area. You will learn about dramatic seal impressions of senior ranking officials from the first temple period that were found. You will learn about the significance of the seal impressions with regards to the biblical context and the actual place where they were found.