Trip Experiences for the 14 Day Biblical Israel Tour

 

January 4-17, 2025      

 

 

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Sunrise Sea of Galilee March 2024 Israel Tour John DeLancey

"Life transforming Israel tours & teaching in the context of the land of the Bible"

Group Photos

DeLancey Israel Tour Amman Jordan
Arad Judean Desert January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Masada synagogue January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Shiloh Jan 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Yardenit January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Syrian Border Mt. Hermon Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Lebanon Border Tel Dan  Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Precipice of Nazareth January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Yad Vashem January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Sde Boker Ben Gurion January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Masada January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Dead Sea January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Arbel Hikers January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Sea of Galilee Boat Ride January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Syrian Border Tanks Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Capernaum Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Jerusalem Mt. of Olives Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Rampart Walk Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Zin Desert January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Masada January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Wadi Qelt January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Arbel January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Gamla Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Tel Dan Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Hill 713 Group Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Garden Tomb Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Mt. Nebo January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

360 Photos

 

The Israel Tour Program:

 

Days 1 & 2 – Saturday-Sunday, January 4-5: Depart from Chicago, Arrival in Amman, Jordan

 

God brought together a total of 34 for this January 2025 Israel trip. This includes church groups from Maine (15) and Indiana (8). Unfortunately, we two individuals in the group could not make it “last minute.” We will miss them!

The entire group met in Chicago for our direct flight to Amman, Jordan. Everyone endured the 12 hour flight. Upon arrival, we were met by Salaam who helped us through the slow Visa procedures. Upon boarding our bus, we then drove to our hotel. The Amman traffic was slow. We freshened up for dinner at 7 pm. Before retiring for the night.

We are all thankful to God for the safe trip, the on-time flights, and all our luggage that arrived with us! We are all looking forward to our first full day as we cross into Israel tomorrow!

Amman Airport Jan 2025 John DeLancey Israel Trip
Amman Airport Jan 2025 John DeLancey Israel Trip

Day 3 – Monday, January 6: Crossing in Israel via Allenby Bridge, Shephelah: Gezer, Beth Shemesh, Azekah, Lachish, Beersheba

 

Today was our first full day. Following a nice breakfast at the hotel in Amman, we loaded the bus and drove to the Allenby Bridge/King Hussein Border Crossing. Sammy (John’s Jordanian guide) accompanied us. We read from Joshua 1 as we departed shortly after 7 am.

 

Border Crossing

We arrived at the border at about 8 a.m. There were a multiple of delays this morning causing us to arrive on the Israeli side not until about 11 a.m. A patient spirit displayed in all got us through.

We were met by Shlomo and David (our Israeli guide and driver) once we got through the Israeli passport area. It was a great feeling being in Israel! From here we drove west through the Judean Desert and up and over the Judean Hill Country for an afternoon in the Shephelah (lowlands) of Judah. We are thankful that we got to see four of the five sites on our program despite the late arrival into Israel! The perfect weather was also welcome, with full sun and afternoon temps in the mid 60s! We hope for clear skies the next week or so.

 

Tel Gezer

Once we descended down into the Shephelah, our first stop was Tel Gezer. This off-the-beaten-path site located along the Aijalon Valley was both a Canaanite and Israelite city, full of walls, towers, and gates. We saw the replica of the “Gezer Calendar.” We also recalled Solomon’s reference to the “seasons of life” from Ecclesiastes 3. From the observation mound we saw the Aijalon Valley mentioned in Joshua 10. Among the Middle Bronze ruins many of us used the new steel stairway down to see the water system (175 steps down). This water system was originally used by Canaanites. We then left these Canaanite ruins and continued to the Israelite (Iron Age) area to see ancient house structures and a chambered gate dating to Solomon (1 Kings 9). Walking back to the bus we saw the Canaanite high place and standing stones.

 

Beth Shemesh

From here we continued south to visit the site of Beth Shemesh. Located along the Sorek Valley, Bethshemesh was a prominent Israelite town known for their many water cisterns. Across the valley is Zorah, the hometown of Samson. Further west down the valley was the Philistine city of Timnah where Samson’s first wife was from (only 4 miles away). We also read the narrative of 1 Samuel 6 about the Ark of the Covenant being returned to Israel by the Philistines living in Ekron. We could see the story unfold right before our very eyes!

 

Tel Azekah

Continuing south, we climbed the site of Azekah. On the drive to the top, we could see biblical Gath (the hometown of Goliath) to the west only about 5-6 miles away. This ancient city that has been excavated in recent years is located along the Elah Valley. Azekah is mentioned in the story of 1 Samuel 17 (the Philistines camped on the ride between Azekah and Socoh further east. It was in the narrow part of the valley (“gai”) where David battled Goliath. David faced the battle with this giant in the confidence of the Lord!

 

Lachish

Our last site of the day was Lachish. We arrived just as it was getting dark. Lachish was a Canaanite city taken by Joshua in two days (Joshua 10). Later, it became an important well-fortified city under the leadership of Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11). The Judean city saw two destructions, one at the hands of the Assyrians in 701 BC (2 Kings 20, Isaiah 36), and later by the Babylonians in 587 BC. We saw a replica of the Lachish Letter #4, one of about 18-20 ostraca (pottery with inscriptions). It mentions Azekah and Lachish as two Judean cities holding out. Jeremiah 34:7 says the same thing. Among the ruins we saw the double walls and gates, the Assyrian siege ramp, and the palace.

 

Beersheba

From Lachish in the dark now, we drove about 55 minutes to Beersheba where we checked in to our hotel. We enjoyed dinner together, followed by a brief gathering to prepare for the next two days. It was a great first day!

Gezer January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Beth Shemesh January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Lachish January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Water System Gezer Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Azekah Elah Valley January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Lachish Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Solomonic Gate Gezer Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Lachish January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Lachish January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 4 – Tuesday January 7: Beersheba, Sde Boker, Wilderness of Zin, Arad, Judean Desert

 

Today was our second full day as we explored the region of the Negev. After a good night’s rest in Beersheba and breakfast, we checked out of our hotel and began our day at about 7:40. We read from Psalm 126 (about the “watercourses of the Negev”) to begin the day. The weather was once again perfect, with full sun and temps in the 60s following a cooler mooning.

 

Beersheba

We arrived at Tel Beersheba at 7:50 a.m. This is a small but interesting archaeological site. We saw a replica of a 4-horned altar found, the city well, walls, gates, and a few Israelite “four-room houses. We read from Genesis 21 about Abraham. Isaac (Gen. 26), Jacob (Gen. 46), and Elijah (1 Kings 19) who were all here. We left the site by walking through the impressive cistern water system. The engineering of this was fascinating!

 

Sde Boker / Gravesite of David & Paula Ben Gurion, Zin Desert

Next, we drove about 50 minutes south to the Zin Desert. The small community of Sde Boker overlooks the beautiful canyon of the Zin. This is where the graves of David Ben Gurion (Israel’s first Prime Minister) are located. His wife Paula is also buried here. We saw a number of ibex here (referred to in Psalm 104). From here we drove down into the Zin canyon for a hike to the water falls and back. Many in the group continued the hike, ascending to the far rim. The 12 spies came through the Zin Desert (Numbers 13) and Moses struck the rock somewhere here as well (Numbers 20).

 

Tel Arad

We drove about an hour back north to Tel Arad, an early Canaanite and Israelite/Judean site. Arad was a city whose king opposed the Israelites at the time of Moses (Number 21). The city would later be conquered by Joshua (Joshua 12). We started our visit on top of the citadel. Here we saw the false worship center here, complete with a courtyard, sacrificial altar, and a “Holy of Holies” inner chamber. King Hezekiah (and later Josiah) brought an end to these high places (2 Chronicles 31 & 34). We also reflected upon how we are to be a “living sacrifice” to God by laying ourselves on the altar of His purpose and will for our lives (Romans 12:1-2). We also walked down to the Canaanite city to see the reservoir, house structures, and the walls and towers of the city.

 

Hanokdim

From here we drove through modern-day Arad to the eastern side of this large modern city. We stopped for a brief walk out into the edge of the Judean Desert for a fantastic view of the mountains of Moab in modern Jordan today. We boarded back on the bus and drove on a windy road into the Judean Desert and to Hanokdim, our “bedouin-style tent hotel” for the night. Upon arriving we enjoyed a camel ride through the desert. We checked into our “tents” and/or private huts. We also enjoyed listening to a bedouin share about his lifestyle and a tasty dinner. To end the night we enjoyed a bonfire. The beauty of the night sky and all the stars was incredible!

Beersheba January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Zin Desert Ben Gurion January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Arad January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Beersheba January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Zin Desert January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Hanokdim January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Zin Desert January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Zin Desert January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Hanokdim Camel Ride January 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey

Day 5 – Wednesday, January 8: Masada, Ein Gedi, Qumran, Dead Sea

 

We enjoyed a sunny day once again today as our travels took us up the western coastline of the Dead Sea. The temperatures were a bit warmer, with highs in the low 70s. We read from Psalm 18 (verse 2 refers to metzada) following breakfast after we checked out of our Bedouin camp and began our short drive to Masada.

 

Masada

We drove east about 8 miles to get to the western side of Masada, a palace-fortress built by King Herod in the 30s BC. Everyone in the group hiked up the Roman ramp. Upon cresting the site we saw the casemate wall, huge cisterns, the synagogue, the western and northern palace, storehouses, and the bathhouse. The courageous story of Masada (with 967 using the site as a place of refuge) is both incredible and inspiring! Leaving the site, about half the group walked down the steep Snake Path while others took the cable car down.

 

Ein Gedi

From here we drove northward on Rt. 90 along the western shoreline of the Dead Sea to Ein Gedi. As we drove we read from Ezekiel 47 (about how one day the Dead Sea will become fresh). Together we walked into the canyon (Wadi David) where we stopped to read from Song of Songs 1 (mentioning the henna blossoms), 2 Chronicles 20 (mentioning the “Ascent of Ziz”), and 1 Samuel 24 (the David and Saul “cave encounter”). Most in the group walked back to the far water falls while others enjoyed the first falls.

 

Jericho

We boarded our bus once again to drove to the northern end of the Dead Sea. We arrived at Tel es-Sultan, or Old Testament Jericho. After a wonderful makluba lunch (chicken and rice prepared together), we climbed the site. We looked east and could see the Jordan Valley the Mt. Nebo on the ridge on the horizon (Dt. 34). Elijah was taken to heaven in the area across the river (2 Kings 2). Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River at “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (John 1). Looking south we could see the area of NT Jericho (where Zachaeus and Bartimeaus lived, and where Herod the Great died in 4 BC).

We then turned our attention to the ancient OT site of Jericho. The archaeology of this ancient site of Jericho supports and confirms the Bible’s historicity. Besides seeing the oldest structure (a round tower) in Israel, on the southern end we saw the double retaining walls of this Canaanite city taken by Joshua (Joshua 6). A mud brick wall once stood on top of these stone walls. They came tumblin down.

Before we left Jericho, we drove to the Herodian site to see the Hasmonean & Herodian winter palace. We looked across the Wadi Qelt to see the bathhouse and pool area. Zacheaus (Luke 19) and Bartimaeus (Mark 10) were from this New Testament site. Herod the Great died here (in either 4 or 1 BC).

 

Dead Sea

Our last experience of the day was to float in the Dead Sea. We enjoy floating in this unique body of water (33% salt and minerals). We drove to our hotel at Qumran close by for dinner and overnight.

Masada Ramp January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Masada January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Jericho January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Masada January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Ein Gedi January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
NT Jericho January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Masada Cistern January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Ein Gedi January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Dead Sea January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 6 – Thursday, January 9: Qumran, Wadi Qelt, Shiloh, Beth Shean

 

Today was another brilliantly sunny day, with temps around 70 (a bit cooler at windy Shiloh). We have appreciated so far this dry weather pattern here in Israel (it was wet and rainy last week before we arrived). After breakfast, we headed to Qumran, only two minutes away). We read from Jeremiah 32 (about putting documents into clay jars to preserver them) as we drove to Qumran’s entrance.

 

Qumran

The most significant discovery in all of Israel was the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran in 1947. We arrived here at about 7:45 a.m. We walked up to the edge of the cliffs of the Judean Desert to see Cave 6, one of 12 caves in which fragment of scrolls were found. These texts of Scripture and other sectarian texts were written by the Essenes. At the site itself we saw many miqveot (plural for mikve, or ritual baths), cisterns, and the scriptorium. In front of Cave 4 (and 5 & 10), we read from Psalm 19 and “151,” an extra psalm found here. We also remembered 2 Timothy 3:16 about God’s inspired Word. Thanks be to God for the preservation of His Word and the joy, instruction, direction, and hope it provides us!

 

Wadi Qelt/Judean Desert

We drove back past Jericho and began our ascent towards Jerusalem. We turned off the road for a fabulous view of the Wadi Qelt, part of the Judean Desert. Here we heard “Isaiah the prophet” share from chapter 40 of his book. We also heard Shlomo sing Psalm 23 in Hebrew.

 

Shiloh

Next, we drove into the Hill Country of Ephraim to Shiloh. When we arrived, we made our way up this ancient site where the Tabernacle once stood here for over 300 years. It was destroyed by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4). We first heard about the five red heifers who are now housed here (they came from Texas). Next, we saw a hologram about the Tabernacle. After walking to the top of the site, we watched a short movie about the biblical events that took place here. Standing within the suggested “Holy of Holies” we read from 1 Samuel 3 (the call of Samuel) and Jeremiah 7. Among the ruins we saw a massive Middle Bronze wall that was incorporated into the Israelite site. It was young Samuel who said, “Hineni” (“Here I am!”) When God called Him into service. Abraham, Jacob, Moses and Isaiah also used this meaningful word in response to God’s calling upon their lives. Before we left Shiloh, most in the group enjoyed a huge hamburger and fries brought in from Eli, a Jewish community.

 

Beth Shean

We traveled north from here along the Jordan Valley to Beth Shean. The ride took about an hour and a half. Since we arrived late, we were allowed to stay beyond the closing time. This ancient site is an incredibly large site, with many ruins from the Roman Period. We saw colonnaded streets, the bathhouse, agora, public latrenes, and the theater. Many in the group climbed to the top of the OT site. According to 1 Samuel 31 (and 1 Chronicles 10), the body of Saul was hung on the walls of the town square after he died on near by Mt. Gilboa. The men from Jabesh Gilead (located on the east side of the Jordan Valley), came at night to rescue the body of Saul.

 

Tiberias

At 5 p.m. we drove about 18 miles to the southern end of the Sea of Galilee, and then another five to Tiberias. We checked into our hotel (Ron Beach, located right on the water’s edge), followed by a wonderful dinner (with ice cream!) and a restful evening. We are staying here four nights!

Qumran January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Wadi Qelt January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Shiloh Holy of Holies January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Qumran January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Red Heifer January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Beth Shean January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Wadi Qelt Isaiah January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Shiloh January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Beth Shean January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 7 – Friday, January 10: Arbel, Yardenit (Jordan River Optional Baptism), Kinneret Cemetery, Magdala, Ancient Boat, Boat Ride

 

We work up to a beautiful sunrise this morning on the Sea of Galilee. It was another perfect weather day, with full sun and highs around 70. It was windy through the night and into this morning, kicking up waves and surf on the water. We spent the entire day around the Sea of Galilee, visiting sites connected to Jesus and His ministry. Following breakfast, we departed at 7:35 for our first site, reading Matthew 4 on the way!

 

Mt. Arbel

We arrived at the trailhead of Mt. Arbel in 10 minutes. Sixteen in the group hiked to the top (on the uphill trail that included handholds at the top), while others bussed around to the other side and ascended to the top from there. The view was stunning! While we cannot be sure, perhaps this was where the Jesus’ Transfiguration took place (Mt. 17), or perhaps on the lower slopes of the cliff where he taught the Sermon on the Mount (Mt. 5-7) or where He met His disciples following His resurrection (Mt. 28). We also heard Shlomo read Matthew 5 in Hebrew. We intentionally spent some solitary time here reading Matthew 13-14 on our own before we walked back down to the busses. We were treated to ice cream before we loaded the bus (thanks Amiel!)

 

Jordan River/Yardenit

Following our visit at Arbel, we drove to the southern end of the lake to Yardenit. About 17 in the group reaffirmed their faith as they were immersed in the waters of the Jordan River. One (Abagail) was baptized for the first time! The water was a bit cold, but the experience warmed our hearts. Praise be to God for setting us apart for His kingdom purposes!

 

Kinneret Cemetery

From the southern end of the lake we now drove north along the western shoreline of the lake. We included an extra stop at the Kinneret Cemetery. This is where an early Jewish pioneer woman named “Rachel” is buried. She was an Ukrainian Jew who wrote poems, some of which were put to songs. She died in 1931.

 

Magdala

From here we drove to the Plain of Genesseret. Here we visited the ancient city of Magdala. This was a large Jewish city in the days of Jesus. We saw a modest 1st century synagogue here. Although the city is only mentioned once (at the end of Matthew 15), Jesus must have taught here. We walked over the chapel and saw wonderful mosaic murals of scenes from the life of Christ, including the Luke 8 story of the woman healed by Jesus. We sounded like angels as we sang a few worship songs in the rotunda. The acoustics were amazing! Leaving the site we saw a few ritual baths as well.

 

Ancient Boat / Boat Ride

We ended the day towards sunset to Nof Ginnosar. In the museum here we saw an ancient 1st century wooden boat that was discovered in 1986. We then walked out to the dock for our own boat ride. We enjoyed a time of worship and the reading of Mark 4 and Matthew 14, the two storm narratives. We keep our eyes on Jesus! He is the One who brings peace to our lives! The experience was ideal, with calm and quiet waters, and a beautiful sunset over Arbel.

We drove back to our hotel rooms for dinner and another free evening of leisure. It was another great day with a wonderful group!

Arbel Hike January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Rachel's Grave January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Magdala January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Arbel January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Sea of Galilee Jan 2025 Israel Trip John DeLancey
Sea of Galilee Boat Ride January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Yardenit January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Magdala January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Arbel Sunset January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 8 – Saturday, January 11: Gamla, Bental, Caesarea Philippi, Dan

 

Today we spent the day in the Golan Heights. This region extends 38 miles east from the southern end of the Sea of Galilee up to the slopes of Mt. Hermon and the Syrian border. Sunny skies were enjoyed all day long again, with temps in the 60s, although a little cooler near Mt. Bental. We left the hotel after another hearty breakfast at 7:35, reading Mark 8.

 

Gamla

We drove around the northern part of the lake and began our ascent to the Golan Heights. As we climbed we stopped briefly to look down to the Plain of Bethsaida where the Feeding of the 5,000 took place (Luke 9). Once we arrived at Gamla, we walked to the overlook of this camel-hump shaped city. This was a city that was destroyed in 67 AD in the 1st Revolt against the Romans in 67 AD. Among the ruins discovered was a 1st century synagogue here where Jesus may have taught (Matthew 4). Many in the group made the hike down the steep pathway to see the synagogue. There is a high probability that Jesus taught here (Matthew 4 & 9).

 

Bental/Syrian Border

Continuing northward, we stopped for a brief stop to look over into Syria. We aimed to climb with the bus to the top of Mt. Mental, an old military outpost used in the 1967 war. However, it was closed. However, we had a nice view into Syria (including the city of Kuneitra) from down on the slopes of Bental. As of the last month or so, Israel now controls more of the buffer area, including the outskirts of Quneitra. They also control the highest peak of Mt. Hermon (9,200 feet). Leaving this viewpoint, we also visited the Valley of the Tears nearby. This was where a famous tank battle took place against the Syrians in the 1973 Yom Kippur War.

 

Caesarea Philippi

Driving past the snow-capped Mt. Hermon, we drove down off the Golan Heights to the Saar Falls. Although there was no water flowing, we enjoyed saklav, a unique warm drink of the Druze. We then continued to Caesarea Philippi.

This was a pagan city in the days of Jesus that included temples to Augustus, Zeus (Jupiter), and Nemesis. The Pan deity was especially honored here. It was good to see that recent excavations of the Augustus Temple revealed amazing mosaics and other structures. The Banias Spring begins here, one of the three tributaries of the Upper Jordan River. It was in the region of this city that Jesus asked, “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16). We also recalled the Transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17) that took place perhaps on the slopes of Mt. Hermon, or further south (on Nimrod? Arbel?).

 

Tel Dan

Our last site of the day was Tel Dan. We walked through the beautiful nature preserve along the Dan Spring. We stopped by the water to read from Psalm 42. Shlomo also played a ballad on his recorder for us. We continued our walk to the culture center. Here, Jeroboam built an altar and set a golden calf on the high place. Sitting on the steps of the high place, we read from Judges 18 and 1 Kings 12. A pattern of disobedience here led to the end of Dan in 734 BC. We also overlooked the border with Lebanon. Before leaving, we saw the Canaanite mud brick gate (that was most likely a ceremonial gate built after the time of Abraham) and the Israelite gate complex (9th century BC).

We drove south along the Huleh Valley back to our hotel, passing the Canaanite city of Hazor on the way. Once again, we enjoyed a huge dinner and a free evening.

Sunrise Sea of Galilee Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Gamla Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Caesarea Philippi Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Sea of Galilee from Gamla Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Mt. Hermon Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Tel Dan Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Gamla Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Syrian border Tanks Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Tel Dan Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 9 – Sunday, January 12: Optional Sunrise Hike in Upper Galilee (“Hill 713”), Capernaum, Chorazin, Hippos

 

Today was our “reflection/recovery” day and it was meaningful in many ways. Unfortunately, a heavy fog prevented us to see any sunrise (from “Hill 713”). However, the sun appeared later in the morning, with sunny skies by the afternoon. We enjoyed perfect temps in the 60s. We only visited a few sites, with a slower pace. Following a late breakfast, we left the hotel at 9:30. We read from Mark 1:35f as we began (about Jesus praying in the early morning).

 

Optional Hike to “Hill 713” (Har Mitzpe ha-Yamim)

Well before sunrise, 18 of us left the hotel at 5:10 to drive north into the Upper Galilee. We enjoyed about a 30 minute hike to “Hill 713” (or Har Mitzpe ha-Yamim in Hebrew). This is a trail that leads to a stunning overlook! We made in plenty of time before the sunrise. Unfortunately, the fog prevented us from seeing even the Sea of Galilee. Some of us will return to this lookout later this afternoon. 🙂

 

Capernaum

Leaving the hotel at 9:30, we drove north to Capernaum. This was the “home base” for his ministry here in the Galilee. Sitting in the late 4th / early 5th century synagogue, we read from Mark 1, 2; Luke 7; and John 6. We also saw many 1st century house structure ruins dating to the time of Jesus. Before we left the site, we spent some time down on the shoreline of the lake where we read the tender passage recored in Mark 9. We remembered it was along the shoreline here where Jesus called His first disciples (Matthew 4). Later here at Capernaum He also called Matthew/Levi (Mark 2). In Hebrew, Jesus said “Come, follow me!” (Lech Acharai – (לֶךְ אַחֲרָי) – literally meaning, “Walk after me/imitate me.”

 

Chorazin

Closely by high on a hill above the NW corner of the lake is Chorazin. The visible ruins from this archaeological site are primarily from a 3rd century AD. We saw a wine press as well as the synagogue. During Covid, archaeologists excavated below the 3rd century level of the synagogue and exposed most likely the 1st century level. Chorazin was one of three cities condemned by Jesus because of their unbelief (Matthew 11). We also read from Matthew 23 about the Moses Seat found here about 75 years ago.

 

Hippos/Sussita

From here, we traveled around the north end of the lake, passing by again the two possible locations for Bethsaida, the home of Peter, Andrew, and Philip (John 1). The Feeding of the 5,000 took place in a remote area near this fishing village. We then turned south on the east side towards Hippos/Sussita. On the way we made a brief stop to see the cliffs mentioned in Mark 5. At Hippos (a Decapolis city), we saw many Roman ruins. During the Byzantine Period (4th-6th centuries AD), there were no less than a half a dozen churches were built here. Upon leaving the site, we read the transformational story of the demoniac from Mark 5.

 

Optional Return to “Hill 713” (Har Mitzpe ha-Yamim)

In the mid-afternoon, we dropped most of our group back at the hotel, while the rest of us (eight) returned to “Hill 713” for another try in seeing the wonderful view. This time the visibility was a little better, but the haze was still limiting. On a clearer day (as pictured from a few years ago), one could see literally across the width of the country, from the the Golan Heights to the east to the Carmel Range and Haifa to the west (beyond which is the Med Sea!). Looking south we could see Mt. Tabor, Hill of Moreh, and Mt. Gilboa. It was a special optional experience despite the haze. The sunset was very nice too! We returned to the hotel for dinner and our last overnight here before driving to Jerusalem tomorrow.

Capernaum January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Coney Chorazin Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Hippos wine press January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Sea of Galilee Capernaum Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Moses Seat Chorazin January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Hill 713 Sept 2022 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Chorazin January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Hippos January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Hill 713 Sunset Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 10 – Monday, January 13: Precipice of Nazareth, Megiddo, Mt. Carmel, Caesarea, Jerusalem

 

Today was yet another sunny day, with highs in the low 70s by the afternoon. Simply outstanding! For January weather, this has been an incredible streak of sunny and rain free days! Today was also a longer driving day as we eventually made our way to Jerusalem. We saw three sites on the way, all of which were inspiring. We read portions of Mathew 5-7 (Sermon on the Mount) as we loaded the bus and departed at 7:30.

 

Precipice of Nazareth

We drove south through the traditional Cana to get to the Precipice of Nazareth. The visibility from here permitted us to see Mt Tabor (Judges 4), the Hill of Moreh (Judges 7), Afula (home of Gideon, Judges 6), and even Mt. Carmel to the west (1 Kings 18). We considered the life of Jesus as read from Luke 4 and John 1. We were encouraged by the words of Philip who said, “Come and see!” In response to Nathaniel’s question, “What good can come out of Nazareth?” (John 1)

 

Megiddo

Located along the edge of the Jezreel Valley is Megiddo. The traffic was heavy (as usual) as we cross the Jezreel Valley to get there. This archaeological site was about 25 layers of occupation spanning a period of about 2,500 years! It was a Canaanite and Israelite city. Pharaohs like Thutmose III conquered it in 1468 BC. Climbing the site, we saw 3 series of city gates, Solomon’s stables and palace, a sacrificial altar from the Early Bronze Period, and a grain silo. We left the walking to the water system that was engineered to bring water safely inside the walls of the city. Unfortunately, it was closed so we could not descend down to it (180 steps). We also had a great view of the Jezreel Valley referred to as the Valley of Armageddon in Revelation 16. In the end, God wins when Jesus returns!

 

Mt. Carmel/Muhraqa

Our next first destination was to Mt. Carmel, a mountain range overlooking the Jezreel Valley on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. After lunch (at the Mitzpe Carmel, owned by a Druze family), we ascended to the top of this ridge to a place called Muhraqa. We went into the Carmelite chapel to read passages such as Isaiah 35, Amos 1 & 9, 2 Kings 4 (Elisha) , Songs of Songs 7, and 1 Kings 18. This last narrative is about the confrontation between Elijah and the prophets of Baal! We enjoyed singing a few songs too! What wonderful harmony! Also, we walked to the rooftop for the view of the Jezreel Valley. The some-what hazy skies did not allow us to see very far other than to the area of Nazareth and Mt. Tabor in the distance.

 

Caesarea

To end the day, we descended down to the Sharon Plain to Caesarea. We first began at there aqueduct that brought water into this city built by Herod the Great over a 12 year period (22-10 BC). In the theater we read from Acts 10 (Peter), Acts 12 (Agrippa 1), Acts 21 (Philip), and Acts 26 (Paul). From here we walked across the city to see the palace, hippodrome, the location of the grand harbor, and the Crusader gate, wall, and mote. We drove to the aqueduct where many got wet in the Med Sea. The sunset was stunning!

 

Jerusalem

The drive to Jerusalem took about two hours. We checked into our hotel and enjoyed a late but great dinner. Following dinner, many in the group walked to the Western Wall, the most holy place for Jews today. It was a late night, but a wonderful day. The full moon was incredible to see too! We all are looking forward to seeing Jerusalem over the next 2 days!

Nazareth January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Mt. Carmel Muhraqa January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Sunset Med Sea Caesarea January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Megiddo January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Mt. Carmel Jezreel Valley January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Jewish Quarter Menorah Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Megiddo Flower January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Caesarea January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Western Wall January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 11 – Tuesday, January 14: Jerusalem, Herodium, Shepherds’ Fields, Bethlehem

 

Today was our first full day in Jerusalem and surrounding area. The sun was once again shining bright all day, without a cloud in the sky. Temps were perfect once again, in the mid 60s. After breakfast, we left the hotel around 7:35, reading Psalm 122 as we departed for the Mt. of Olives.

 

Mt. of Olives/Gethsemane

Our first stop of the day was the Mt. of Olives. We drove around the north side of the Old City, passing the Damascus and Herod Gates on the way. Cresting the Mt. of Olives we drove to a spectacular view across the Kidron Valley of the Old City and Temple Mount below. From here we walked down to Dominus Flavet, a small chapel where we enjoyed singing a few songs together. Here we read from Luke 19 (Palm Sunday), Acts 1 (Christ’s ascension), and Zechariah 14 (about the return of Christ). Continuing down the slope towards the Church of All Nations (the traditional Garden of Gethsemane, Luke 22), we walked up into the courtyard of the church to see the very old olive trees.

 

Herodium

Our next stop took us south and a bit east of Jerusalem to Herodium. This was a palace-fortress built by Herod the Great. He was also buried in 4 BC. The site was incredible, with many new renovations and displays. Inside the well-preserved official’s chamber (i.e. reception hall) where we saw a wonderful presentation. We then walked up 150 steps through the royal arches to the top where we saw the bathhouse, synagogue, impressive frescoes, and a great view of Jerusalem from the highest of the four towers. We left the site by walked down through the cistern system.

 

Bethlehem/Shepherd’s Fields

Just to the west of Herodium is Bethlehem. After lunch in Beit Sahour (an eastern adjacent Arab town), we enjoyed singing Christmas carols in the Shepherds’ Fields. We read from Micah 2, 4, and 5 as well as Luke 2 about the birth of Jesus. It was “just at the right time God sent His Son” (Galatians 4:4). From here we drove into Bethlehem where we visited an olive wood factory and story. These olive wood products were impressive. 

 

Promenade

Driving back towards Jerusalem, we arrived at our hotel for dinner at 6:30. A couple representatives from Amiel Tours (our Israeli land agents) joined us. After dinner many in the group enjoyed a quiet (and easier) walk to the Promenade and back. This traffic-free wide sidewalk winds around on the west and south end of the Old City, providing a wonderful view! We then returned for another night of rest.

Jerusalem Mt. of Olives Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Garden Tomb Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Herodium Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Jerusalem Dominus Flat Mt. of Olives Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Herodium Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Shepherds' Fields Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Garden Tomb Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Herodium June 2024 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Shepherds' Fields Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 12 – Wednesday, January 15: Yad Vashem, Israel Museum, Old City – Rampart Walls, Holy Sepulcher Church, St. Annie’s Church, Pools of Bethesda, Eastern Gate

 

Today was another full day here in Jerusalem. We enjoyed sunny skies once again, with highs in the 60s. This morning was slower-paced as we visited two museums. We read Psalm 137 as we left the hotel at 7:35.

 

Yad Vashem

We departed the hotel and drove to West Jerusalem, specifically to Israel’s Holocaust Museum & Memorial. It is called Yad Vashem, named after a verse in Isaiah 56 that mentions the “memorial and a name.” Before the museum opened, we sat in a nice shaded area  among the Avenue of the Righteous (with trees dedicated to righteous gentiles who saved Jews during WW II. This incudes trees dedicated to people like Oscar Schindler and Corrie ten Boom). We heard the personal story from Shlomo about his family during this tragic event. He lost 12 family members in Vilna, Poland.

It was a somber experience walking through the Children’s Memorial and the museum itself on our own, We were reminded of the horrors and atrocities of the Holocaust and the loss of six million Jews. We left the museum around 11 a.m.

 

Israel Museum – Model of Jerusalem

From here we drove to the area of the Knesset, Israel’s parliamentary building. Across the street is the Israel Museum. Although the museum was closed today (unknown to us), we were at least allowed to see the 1:50 scale model of 2nd Temple Jerusalem. The model gives us a good idea of what Jerusalem looked liked during the time of Jesus.

 

Old City / Rampart Walk

Changing up the afternoon schedule a bit, we entered the Old City of Jerusalem through the Jaffa Gate. Here, we accessed the entrance to the Rampart Walls for our walk around part of the Old City. These walls date to the Turkish/Ottoman Period, being built by Suleiman the Great (1520-1566) between 1537-1544 AD. The view from high on these walls was quite interesting! We walked from the area of the Jaffa Gate to the Zion’s Gate on the south side of the Old City.

 

Holy Sepulcher Church

We then walked from the Jewish Quarter to the Christian Quarter, specifically to the Holy Sepulcher Church. Built in 325 AD, this is the traditional location for the death and burial place of Jesus. It very well could be that Hadrian, the 2nd century AD Roman emperor “tipped us off” where he thought the tomb of Jesus was! The archaeological and historical records favor this site over the Garden Tomb. Because of the lack of people here, we literally walked right into the Edicule (enclosing the suggested tomb of Jesus).

 

St. Anne’s Church / Pools of Bethesda

From the Christian Quarter we walked to the Muslim Quarter where we visited St. Anne’s Church, a Crusader Church. The acoustics in the church are incredible, providing a 6-7 second echo. We enjoyed singing here! Next to the church is the Pool of Bethesda. We read John 5 of the miracle that took place here. After walking out of the Old City (Stephen’s Gate, also called Lion’s and Jericho Gate), we walked along the eastern wall to the base of the closed Eastern Gate.

We returned to the hotel for dinner and a free evening. What another great day here in Jerusalem!

Yad Vashem Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Israel Museum Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Holy Sepulcher Church Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Yad Vashem Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Rampart Walk Old City Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Bethesda Pools Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Shlomo Family 2023 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Rampart Walk Old City Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Eastern Gate Jan 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 13 – Thursday, January 16: City of David, Southern Excavations, Jewish Quarter, Allenby Bridge Crossing, Mt. Nebo, Overnight in Amman

 

The streak continues! Today was our last day here in Jerusalem and it was another very nice weather day, with some skittered clouds in the morning but sunny skies and temps once again in the mid 60s by afternoon. We have been blessed, although Israel needs winter rains! Today was also a day of incredible experiences exploring the City of David, the Southern excavations of the Temple, the Western Wall, and the Jewish Quarter before we drove to the Allenby Bridge Border to cross back over to Jordan for our flight tomorrow.

 

City of David

After loading up our bus with our luggage, we left our hotel at 7:35 reading portions of Psalm 48. We drove down the Hinnom Valley before climbing up there Tyropoeon Valley to the City of David. After gathering on the observation tower, we walked down through the excavations (“Area G”). We saw David’s palace, city walls, and 7th-6th BC house structures. One of them was excavated/uncovered by Dr. John in June-July, 1982. We all continued through Warren’s Shaft (2 Samuel 5). The upper part of this discovery was probably used by David but not the vertical 52 foot shaft. Finally, we descended down to the Canaanite/Jebusite pool to the Gihon Spring. Many in the group braved the waters of the 1,700 foot-long Hezekiah’s Tunnel (2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32), while others took the “dry” Jebusite tunnel built 100s of years earlier. Both groups met at the Pool of Siloam where we read John 9 in dramatic fashion (great job actors!).

 

Southern Wall Excavations

From here we drove up to the SW corner of the Temple (plans were to walk up through the Drainage Channel underneath the stone pavement that dates to 30 AD, but it was closed). The SW corner of the Temple may have been the pinnacle of the Temple where Jesus was tempted (Mt. 4). We walked up the southern steps used by commoners in Jesus’ day. Jesus Himself would have used these steps to enter the Temple. We recalled the many mentioned in the NT who used these steps (Luke 2, 18; John 2; Mark 13; and Acts 2, etc…). Before leaving the steps, we considered how God wants us to be His spiritual temple (2 Corinthians 3).

 

Western Wall

We walked a short distance where we entered into the Kotel area. Our visit of the Western/Wailing Wall was fascinating. The Western Wall served as one of four retaining walls to support the expanded Temple Mount platform. Herod’s Temple project (beginning in 20 BC) was expansive! We enjoyed going down to Wall. 

 

Jewish Quarter

We walked up to the heart of the Jewish Quarter from here, enjoying lunch on our own and some last-minute shopping. We met Moshe (an Orthodox Jew) at Shoreshim.

 

Allenby Bridge Crossing & Mt. Nebo

Because of our flight back home leaving from Amman, we walked out of the Zion’s Gate to meet our bus. We then drove back down through the Judean Desert to the Allenby Bridge Border Crossing. The procedure went well and took less time than last week. Meeting Sam, our Jordanian Guide, we drove from the Plains of Moab to Mt. Nebo. We read from Deuteronomy 31-34. The view of the northern part of the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley was hazy. However, it was a special location with which to end our tour.

 

Amman

After a brief stop at a mosaic school and store (in support of our Jordanian friends), we arrived at our hotel for our last night of the trip. We enjoyed dinner together. We fly home tomorrow.

Mt. of Olives City of David January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Hezekiah's Tunnel January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Mt. Nebo January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
City of David Area G January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Siloam Pool January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Mt. Nebo January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Gihon Spring January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Southern Steps January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey
Mt. Nebo January 2025 Israel Tour John DeLancey

Day 14 – Friday, January 17: Amman Airport, Departure, Flight to the U.S.

 

Following one last breakfast together at the hotel, we checked out and loaded the bus at 7:30. We read Psalm 100 as we drove 30 minutes to the Elia Airport in Amman. Most of the group few almost 14 hours to Chicago, while some had a flight to Detroit. Following US Customs, we all made our connection flights back home.

Thanks to God for the blessings of a wonderful trip, a great group, and safety and protection for us all!

Hike Up Arbel

One of our optional hikes is to the top of Mt. Arbel. Located on the NW corner of the Sea of Galilee, the hike offers a wonderful view of the region. We ascend 800 feet to the top (for those not inclined to hike the bus takes people to the top from the other side).

The cliffs of Arbel has historical significance too. Jews during both the 1st century BC and later in 66 AD found refuge in these caves.

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