Feb 28 - We just
had to jump ahead on the schedule to share what we did today.
We started off at the Israel Museum and saw the Holy Land Model, a 1:50 miniature replica of Jerusalem during the time of Christ. Many historical documents were used to construct how Jerusalem looked in the first century. We also visited the Place of the Book which contains the Dead Sea Scrolls found at Qumram near the Dead Sea.
The Place of the Book. We were not allowed to take pictures inside.
Then we headed to Yad Vashem, The Holocaust Museum, in memory of millions murdered by the Nazis. We didn't take pictures here. Just went and absorbed as much as we could. Very moving.
We then traveled to the Old City. Entered through the Jaffa Gate, had lunch, did some shopping, walked along the Via Dolorosa, and ended up at the Western Wall.
Old City Map
Heading towards the Jaffa Gate
Once inside the Jaffa Gate
Almost immediately we were in the market area
Heading towards the Western Wall
Sign right after you get through security
The short tunnel that leads to the Western Wall
Western Wall plaza.
Many Israeli solders were pledging their allegiance to Israel in a ceremony taking place there.
Western Wall in the background
Western Wall - Men's side on the left and women's side on the right
Some from our group at the Wall. This is the holiest place for the Jews.
Here we are right below we left the area
After our group finished praying, we met in an area close by and Kimberly, one of our tour leaders read from II Chronicles 6 where Solomon prays a prayer of dedication of the Temple. In verses 32-33 of the prayer it says: "
And when foreigners hear of you and your mighty miracles, and they come from distant lands to worship your great name and to pray towards this Temple, then hear from heaven where you live, and grant what they ask of you." We are those foreigners. What a wonder and privilege it was to be here today.
