The details of the israel trip
ExperienBible like never before as its stories and passages come to life right before your eyes. Walk where Christ walked when He was on earth and be filled with wonder at places you’ve only read about in the Bible. Visit the village where Jesus was born, see the field where the angels declared His birth, gaze at the place where He was crucified for our sins, and rest in the garden where His empty tomb testifies of His complete and perfect work. The precious memories of having walked in the holy land will stay with you long after your visit, and your walk with God will never be the same again!
10-day/7-night Israel Tour (total of 8 full touring days)
North Tiberias and Galilee (3 nights); Jerusalem (4 nights)
Tour Price
Twin- or triple-sharing: S$3,070.00 nett per adult/child.
Included In Price Of Tour
Return Economy Class on El Al, Israel’s national carrier.
7 nights stay in 4- to 5-star hotels.
8 full days of touring on luxury air-conditioned bus.
Current taxes and airline fuel surcharge of US$174.00 (subject to change by the airline).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided for all days.
Entrance fees to sites as stated in the itinerary.
ITINERARY
DAY OF DEPARTURE (Monday)
Assemble at Changi International Airport in the morning to begin a fascinating and deeply enriching
journey that follows the life and ministry of Jesus, taking you to many places mentioned in the Bible.
On the way to the holy land, sit back, relax and enjoy the latest movies, first-rate in-flight service and
excellent meals onboard EL AL, Israel’s flagship carrier, to Tel Aviv via a stopover in Hong Kong.
DAY 01 (Tuesday)
After an early morning arrival at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, you will enjoy a sumptuous
breakfast before you begin your first full-day of touring.
Caesarea Maritima is where Peter preached the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ to Cornelius’
household (Acts 10), placing them among the earliest Gentile believers of the new covenant. This is
where the first Gentile baptism is mentioned in the Bible, paving the way for Christianity to spread to all
nations. The apostle Paul often travelled here. (Acts 9:30; 18:22; 21:8) He was also imprisoned here for
two years before being taken to Rome to stand trial (Acts 23:23; 25:1–13). Built by Herod, Caesarea
Maritima was also a great harbour city with an ancient Roman aqueduct and theatre.
Megiddo (Armageddon) is an ancient fortress and city, strategically located along the ancient trunk road
from Egypt to Syria and Mesopotamia. The site of numerous battles in biblical history, it is also one of the
cities of Solomon and Ahab, and where King Josiah of Judah fell in battle. In Revelation, Megiddo is
identified as Armageddon, the site of the world’s last great battle.
Mount Carmel is where Elijah contested and defeated the prophets of Baal by a mighty demonstration of
power from God. (1 Kings 18) You will visit the monastery at the top of the mountain and enjoy the
panoramic view. You will be able to see the Nazareth Ridge to the northeast, Mount Tabor and the Hill of
Moreh to the east, and to the southeast, Mount Gilboa. Below Mount Carmel lies the plain of Jezreel.
Nazareth (drive through). The city of Nazareth where Jesus spent his boyhood with his earthly parents,
Joseph and Mary, is located in the heart of an undulating valley. The Church of the Annunciation,
traditionally believed to be where the archangel Gabriel announced the conception of Jesus to the virgin
Mary, is located here.
Mount of Precipice. This is where the Gospel of Luke says Jesus was rejected by His fellow Nazarenes
after He had preached in the synagogue. Filled with anger they “led him to the brow of the hill on which
their city was built, that they might throw Him down over the cliff”. (Luke 4:29)
Cana in Galilee (drive through). Traditionally taken to be the site of Jesus’ first and second miracles,
the changing of water into wine at a wedding feast (John 2:1–11) and the healing of the son of a
nobleman living in Capernaum (John 4:43–54), Cana was also the home of Nathanael. (John 21:2) This
site is located on the road that leads from Nazareth to Tiberias.
(Overnight in Tiberias)
DAY 02 (Wednesday)
Mount of Beatitudes. This hill at the north-western point of the Sea of Galilee is where Jesus delivered
the famous Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew 5–7; Luke 6) The hill has a hollowed slope that serves as a
natural amphitheatre, amplifying any speaker’s voice. It also has a view of Capernaum and Tabgha.
Tabgha (name derived from the Greek Heptapegon or "seven springs"). According to tradition, this is the
location along the shores of the lake where Jesus called Peter and Andrew to follow Him and become
“fishers of men”. (Matthew 4:18–19) Walking on, Jesus found James and John preparing their nets in
their father Zebedee’s fishing boat, and called them to join him as well. (Matthew 4:20–22) Tabgha is also believed to be where the Miracle of the Loaves and the Fishes, or the Feeding of the 5,000, took place.
(Mark 6:35–44) We will have Holy Communion here.
Church of St Peter's Primacy. This is where the resurrected Jesus showed Himself to His disciples as
they were fishing and called out to them. (John 21) A touching scene followed as Jesus restored Peter,
who had denied Him before the crucifixion, and commissioned him to look after His sheep.
Korazim (Chorazin). An important Jewish town from the time of the Second Temple (515 BC to 70AD)
located north of Capernaum. Chorazin, together with Bethsaida and Capernaum, were rebuked by Jesus
for their lack of faith despite His doing most of His miracles in these cities. (Matthew 11:20–24) A typical
Galilean-style synagogue is one of the lonely remains of the city, which is otherwise bare.
Capernaum. Located on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum was the centre of Jesus’ Galilean
ministry (Matthew 4:13) after He left Nazareth. Jesus lived here for a substantial period, healing the sick,
preaching in the synagogue and performing miracles like delivering a man of unclean spirits. (Mark
1:23–26) Another miracle that was performed here was the healing of the paralytic lowered through the
roof. (Mark 2:1–12) Capernaum was also home to Peter and Andrew (Mark 1:29) and Matthew the tax
collector. Recent excavations are reputed to have located the remains of Peter’s house in this vicinity.
There are also the remains of a fourth century synagogue, believed to be built by the centurion whose
servant Jesus healed. (Luke 7:1–10) It is likely that this was in the synagogue in which Jesus declared
Himself as the bread of life.
The Sea of Galilee, also known as the Lake of Gennesaret, Lake Tiberias and Lake Kinneret in the
Bible, is a small lake fed by the river Jordan and lying about 180 metres below sea level. Violent storms
sometimes rush down from the surrounding mountains causing very rough waters. Here, Jesus rebuked
the winds and the sea (Matthew 8:23–27), taught from Peter’s boat, multiplied the loaves and fishes,
walked on water and calmed the storm. You will take a memorable boat ride in a traditional fishing boat of
first-century design. Look out for a spectacular sunset.
Kursi, the land of the Gadarenes or country of the Gerasenes, is identified as the site where Jesus
delivered the possessed man and sent the legion of demons into a large herd of swine. (Luke 8:26–33;
Mark 5:1–11; Matthew 8:28–34)
Ancient Boat Museum. The oldest wooden boat in Israel, discovered on the shore of the Sea of Galilee
in the winter of 1986, is found in this museum. It has been dated to the first half of the first century. Some
shopping can be done here.
(Overnight in Tiberias)
DAY 03 (Thursday)
Caesarea Philippi (Banias). Located to the north of the Sea of Galilee, on the south-western slope of
Mount Hermon, Caesarea Philippi is the source of one of the largest springs feeding the Jordan River.
Numerous temples were built here during the Hellenistic and Roman periods and this site was named
Panias (Banias in Arabic) after the Greek god Pan. Here, Jesus asked His profound question, “Who do
men say that I am?” and Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” (Matthew
16:13–20; Mark 8:27–30)
View of Mount Hermon. Although tradition connects Jesus’ Transfiguration with Mount Tabor, it is more
likely that the Transfiguration occurred on Mount Hermon. Mount Hermon is Israel's highest mountain
and the Hebrew "Hermon" can be translated as "the mountain set apart". This was where God declared
from heaven to Peter, James and John, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”
(Matthew 17:1–8; Mark 9:2–8; Luke 9:29–36)
Golan Heights (Bashan). In biblical times, this area was known for its cattle and its oak trees. (Amos
4:1–2, Zechariah 11:2, Isaiah 2:13) In the present day, the Golan Heights is a strategically significant
area closely guarded by Israel and its neighbours Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. From the top of the military
bunker, you can see the borders of all these nations.
Mount Tabor (view) is a prominent hill southwest of the Sea of Galilee. It was at the foot of this mountain
that Deborah and Barak defeated the forces of Sisera. Traditionally believed to be “the high mountain” which Jesus ascended with Peter, James and John, and where He was transfigured and seen conversing
with Moses and the prophet Elijah.
Beth Shean is an ancient city with a glorious past. The bodies of King Saul and his sons were hung from
its city walls after they were defeated and killed by the Philistines at nearby Mount Gilboa. During the
Greco-Roman period it known as Scythopolis, and its zenith was achieved during the Roman period,
when it was one of ten major cities, known as the Decapolis, in the area.
Harod Spring (Ein Harod), located in the shadow of Mount Gilboa, is the site where Gideon chose 300
warriors based on their drinking method and went on to defeat the Midianite army. (Judges 7:1–5)
(Overnight in Tiberias)
DAY 04 (Friday)
Yardenit, also known as the Jordan River baptism site, is located at the southern end of the Sea of
Galilee, where the Jordan flows out of the Sea on its way down to the Dead Sea. This location consists of
several baptismal sites, a gift shop and a restaurant serving the popular St Peter’s fish. Arrangements for
water baptism can also be made here.
Jericho (drive past) is probably the oldest city in the world and also the lowest place on earth. Led by
Joshua, the Israelites conquered the city with a mighty shout and the blowing of rams’ horns by the
priests (Joshua 6:6–20). It is probably near here that John the Baptist baptised converts at the Jordan
River and the likely site of Christ’s baptism. If the situation permits (due to the requirement of a military
escort) the group may be able to visit this historic site.
Masada (view). The location of Herod’s magnificent mountaintop palace and fortress is also the site of
the last Jewish stand against the Romans in 73 AD and the mass suicide of the 960 defenders.
Ein Gedi (literally “The Spring of the Kid”) is an oasis located near the Dead Sea known for its beautiful
springs, caves and abundant animal life. This was David’s refuge when he fled from King Saul. (1
Samuel 23:29) It was in one of the caves here that David cut off a corner of Saul’s robe. (1 Samuel 24)
Some of the psalms are believed to have been inspired in this area.
Qumran. The 2,000-year-old Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in a cave here by a Bedouin shepherd
chasing a stray sheep in 1947. Consolidated from scrolls found in some 11 caves, every Old Testament
book is represented except Esther.
Dead Sea. Biblically known as the Sea of the Arabah or the Salt Sea, its mineral content is so high that
nothing lives in it. With a salt concentration many times higher than that of the world’s oceans, the density
of the water in the Dead Sea is so high that anyone can float in it. With its unique concentration of
minerals, Dead Sea waters and mud have long been known to have health and cosmetic benefits.
Mount Scopus. Lying just within the official borders of the city of Jerusalem, this place is famous for its
panoramic view of the holy city.
(Overnight in Jerusalem)
DAY 05 (Saturday)
Holyland Model. A complete scale model of Jerusalem during Jesus’ time, this is a great visual aid for
visitors. Examine the miniature of the Second Temple of Jerusalem up close in preparation for your visit
to the actual site the next day.
The Israel Museum houses some of the most amazing pieces of archaeological artefacts ever
uncovered, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls which are the oldest known copies of the Old Testament
books.
The Mount of Olives lies to the east of Jerusalem and is named after the olive trees which grow on its
slopes. The Kidron Valley separates the mount from the Eastern Gate, the Temple Mount and the City of
David. At the foot of the mount is the garden of Gethsemane. The Mount of Olives is where Jesus wept over Jerusalem (Luke 19:37–41), and where He ascended to heaven after His resurrection. (Acts 1:9–12)
The Jews, and many Christians, believe that when the Messiah returns, He will descend on the Mount of
Olives and enter Jerusalem through the Eastern gate. (Zechariah 14:1–4; Ezekiel 44:1–3; 46:1–2, 8)
Dominus Flevit (Latin for “The Lord Wept”) is a small church located on the Mount of Olives, and is
believed to be where Jesus wept when he arrived in Jerusalem as He foresaw the tragic events that
would occur after His death (Luke 19:37–42). The church, built by the Franciscan order in 1954, is in the
unique shape of a teardrop, representing Christ’s tears. It commands an inspiring view.
Garden of Gethsemane. This garden contains ancient olive trees and is situated at the bottom of the
Mount of Olives and opposite the Temple Mount. “Gethsemane” also means “olive press”, an appropriate
name for the spot where Jesus was so hard pressed as He prayed that He sweated great drops of blood.
(Mark 14:32–42; Luke 22:44) This is also where Jesus was betrayed and arrested. (Mark 14:43–50)
Church of All Nations, also known as the Church of Agony, is located on the Mount of Olives within the
vicinity of Gethsemane. The church property includes a section of bedrock where Jesus is said to have
prayed. The stone is said to form a direct line with the Eastern Gate and where the entrance to the Holy
of Holies in the Second Temple is believed to have stood before.
Jerusalem Mall Shopping
(Overnight in Jerusalem)
DAY 06 (Sunday)
The Pool of Bethesda (“House of Mercy”) was where a large number of infirmed people waited to be
cured by the waters which were believed to have miraculous healing properties. It was here that Jesus
healed a paralytic of 38 years. (John 5:1–15) The pool is located within the grounds of the Crusader
Church of St Anne, built on the site where the home of Anne, the mother of Mary, is believed to have
stood. Designed for Gregorian chant, the acoustics of the church’s interior are phenomenal.
The Temple Mount is one of the most controversial and hotly contested sites in the world. Located in the
Old City of Jerusalem, it has special significance to the Jews as it was the site of both the First and
Second Temples. Many Jews also believe that the Temple Mount is the site of the third and final Temple,
to be built in the time of the Messiah. The Temple Mount also has great significance to the Muslims. The
Dome of the Rock, believed to be the spot from which the prophet Muhammad ascended through the
heavens to God accompanied by the archangel Gabriel, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque are located here. The
Temple Mount was built on Mount Moriah, where Abraham was prepared to sacrifice Isaac. It was also
where Jesus was presented in the Temple by His earthly parents Joseph and Mary and afterwards
stayed behind to debate with the teachers. (Luke 2:22–50) The veil in the temple was torn from top to
bottom when Jesus died at the cross. (Matthew 27:51)
The Dome of the Tablets/Spirits is located on the Temple Mount, just north of the Dome of the Rock.
There is a theory by Dr Asher Kaufman that this dome marks the site of the Holy of Holies in the Second
Temple, as the east-west line aligning the Mount of Olives with the Eastern Gate and the Temple cuts
through this very location.
The Via Dolorosa (The Way of Suffering) is the name of a street in the Old City of Jerusalem, believed
to be the path that Jesus walked on the way to His crucifixion. There are 14 stations, each signifying a
certain point in Christ’s journey with the last five stations situated inside the Church of the Holy
Sepulchre.
Ecce Homo Arch. The reconstructed ruins of this arch, with its three openings, can be seen as you
move from the second to the third station of the Via Dolorosa. This spot is named for Pilate’s presentation
of Jesus to the Jews after He was scourged, where he said, “Ecce Homo!” or “Behold the man!” (John
19:1–5)
The Lithostratos, or “The Pavement”, is located at the third station of the Via Dolorosa and is where
Pilate heard and sought to release Jesus. (John 19:13)
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built by the mother of Emperor Constantine in 330 AD and is
traditionally thought to be a possible site for the hill of crucifixion as well as Christ’s tomb. The primary
custodians of The Church of the Holy Sepulchre are the Greek Orthodox, the Armenian Apostolic and
Roman Catholic churches.
The Garden Tomb. Located outside the walls of Jerusalem, this garden is also believed to be the tomb
and site of Christ’s resurrection. The large cistern located underneath the garden indicates that this could
be the garden of Joseph of Arimathea. The Garden Tomb was discovered by General Charles Gordon in
1884 when he identified a prominent rocky crag, which looked like a skull, as Golgotha, or literally “place
of a skull”. In the midst of the garden lies a tomb whose interior meets all the requirements for the seating
of the two angels who spoke with Mary of Magdala. (John 20:10–18) A place of peace and tranquillity,
the Garden Tomb is ideal for believers to take Holy Communion, reflect and worship.
(Overnight in Jerusalem)
DAY 07 (Monday)
Mount Zion is a mountain near Jerusalem where a Jebusite fortress of the same name once stood. (2
Samuel 5:7) After David conquered this stronghold, he renamed it the City of David. (2 Samuel 5:9)
Located here are the sites of King David’s Tomb, the Upper Room, the Crypt of the Dormition
Church and the Lutheran Cemetery where Oscar Schindler’s grave can be found.
The Upper Room, also known as the Room of the Last Supper, is believed to be where Jesus shared
His last Passover meal with his disciples before His death. (Matthew 26:26–35; Luke 22:7–38) This was
also where the disciples were gathered together praying when the Holy Spirit descended upon them on
Pentecost after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus. (Acts 1:13–16) Located on Mount Zion just
outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, the Upper Room was rebuilt by the Crusaders after it was
razed to the ground by the Muslims. On the floor below the Upper Room is the traditional burial place of
David, known as King David’s Tomb.
The Church of St Peter in Gallicantu is one of the traditional locations for the house of Caiaphas where
Jesus stood trial before the Jewish religious leaders and where Peter denied Him three times.
“Gallicantu” means “rooster” or “cock crowing” and the chapel is built atop the ruins of a Byzantine church
and monastery.
Jaffa Gate is the only gate on the western side of the Old City of Jerusalem and was so named because
the road leading from it goes to the port city of Jaffa. Take note of the Hinnom/Gehenna valley that runs
from the Jaffa Gate on the west side of the Old City and then eastwards along the south side of Mount
Zion until it meets the Kidron Valley. In the English New Testament, the word “hell” is actually the word
“Gehenna”, a possible reference to this valley and its dark past of paganism and idol worship.
The Tower of David Museum is located in the heart of Jerusalem in a magnificently restored citadel and
is one of the best introductions to Jerusalem’s rich and colourful history.
The Western Wall is part of the retaining wall from the time of the Second Temple and is the most
sacred structure in Judaism. Jews have been praying at the Western Wall for centuries believing that the
spot is the holiest site on earth after the Holy of Holies. Your friends can see you live at the wall via the
Internet when you are there as there are 24-hour video webcams and live cameras installed there.
The Southern Temple Mount. Excavations here have unearthed the southern steps, a flight of stairs
that led to the main entrances of the Temple Mount. Other interesting finds here include a first-century
street, a series of public ritual bathing wells (mikveh) for pilgrims to purify themselves before entering
holy places and the ruins of Solomon’s stables.
The Jewish Quarter, in the southwest corner of the Old City, is where the remains of a north-south
colonnaded street called the Cardo, complete with some of the original Roman columns, can be found.
Just beyond the columns is an underground mall where you will find Jewish stores and art galleries.
(Overnight at Jerusalem)
DAY 08 (Tuesday)
Bethlehem, translated as “House of Bread” (Hebrew) or “House of Meat” (Arabic), is a city in the West
Bank where many significant events in the Bible occurred. Believed to be the birthplace of Jesus,
Bethlehem is also where David was born and where the tomb of Isaac’s beloved wife Rachel can be
found. The city is home to one of the largest Palestinian Christian communities in the Middle East and
special arrangements have to be made to enter this city.
The Church of the Nativity stands in the centre of Bethlehem over a cave called the Holy Crypt in
which, according to tradition, Mary gave birth to Jesus. This is possibly one of the oldest churches in the
world.
The Shepherds’ Field (drive past) is an area east of Bethlehem, believed to be where the angels
appeared to the shepherds in the field and announced the birth of Jesus. (Luke 2:8–10) Several
churches were built in this area to commemorate the event. You can still see local shepherds tending
their flocks here. Nearby is a fertile plain called the Field of Ruth.
Ein Karem (drive past), the “Spring of the Vineyard”, is the traditional birthplace of John the Baptist, son
of Zachariah and Elizabeth, and cousin of Jesus. The Church of St John the Baptist was built here to
mark this event.
The Valley of Elah (“oak”) was where the Philistines came against the army of Israel and where the
legendary battle of David against Goliath took place. (1 Samuel 17) In the dried-up riverbed of the Brook
of Elah, you can still find smooth stones similar to those which David had used to slay Goliath.
Adullam Cave is located at the east end of the Valley of Elah. This was where David is believed to have
hidden from Saul. (1 Samuel 22) There are many caves in the area and it is uncertain which is the exact
one, but the experience of being there will give you an idea of the living conditions David endured. Here,
David also captained a group of 400 men who were in distress, debt and discontent, transforming them
into his mighty fighting force.
The Road to Emmaus is where the resurrected Jesus appeared to his disciples and opened the
scriptures to them concerning Himself. (Luke 24:13–35) The disciples did not realise who was talking with
them until they invited Jesus to dinner and He took bread, gave thanks and gave it to them. (Luke 24:30)
Yad HaShmonah Biblical Garden is found in a rural village in the Judean hills. Run by messianic Israeli
Jews and Finnish Christians, the Biblical Garden displays plants and agricultural tools from biblical times.
It provides visitors with hands-on experience of the manners and customs of the ancient Israelites. The
garden contains olive trees and olive presses, grape vines and several winepresses, a wheat field and
threshing floor, a watchtower, Bedouin tents, an ancient Galilean synagogue and a burial cave.
After a sumptuous and memorable meal at the Biblical Garden’s restaurant, you will be taken back to
Ben Gurion International Airport at Tel Aviv for your flight home via Hong Kong.
DAY OF RETURN (Wednesday)
Arrive back in Singapore in the evening with many wonderful memories, a deeper revelation of Jesus and
a greater appreciation for the Bible.
Departure Return dates
20 Nov 06 to 29 Nov 06
27 Nov 06 to 06 Dec 06
04 Dec 06 to 13 Dec 06
11 Dec 06 to 20 Dec 06
18 Dec 06 to 27 Dec 06
01 Jan 07 to 10 Jan 07
08 Jan 07 to 17 Jan 07
15 Jan 07 to 24 Jan 07
10-day/7-night Israel Tour (total of 8 full touring days)
North Tiberias and Galilee (3 nights); Jerusalem (4 nights)
Tour Price
Twin- or triple-sharing: S$3,070.00 nett per adult/child.
Included In Price Of Tour
Return Economy Class on El Al, Israel’s national carrier.
7 nights stay in 4- to 5-star hotels.
8 full days of touring on luxury air-conditioned bus.
Current taxes and airline fuel surcharge of US$174.00 (subject to change by the airline).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided for all days.
Entrance fees to sites as stated in the itinerary.
ITINERARY
DAY OF DEPARTURE (Monday)
Assemble at Changi International Airport in the morning to begin a fascinating and deeply enriching
journey that follows the life and ministry of Jesus, taking you to many places mentioned in the Bible.
On the way to the holy land, sit back, relax and enjoy the latest movies, first-rate in-flight service and
excellent meals onboard EL AL, Israel’s flagship carrier, to Tel Aviv via a stopover in Hong Kong.
DAY 01 (Tuesday)
After an early morning arrival at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, you will enjoy a sumptuous
breakfast before you begin your first full-day of touring.
Caesarea Maritima is where Peter preached the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ to Cornelius’
household (Acts 10), placing them among the earliest Gentile believers of the new covenant. This is
where the first Gentile baptism is mentioned in the Bible, paving the way for Christianity to spread to all
nations. The apostle Paul often travelled here. (Acts 9:30; 18:22; 21:8) He was also imprisoned here for
two years before being taken to Rome to stand trial (Acts 23:23; 25:1–13). Built by Herod, Caesarea
Maritima was also a great harbour city with an ancient Roman aqueduct and theatre.
Megiddo (Armageddon) is an ancient fortress and city, strategically located along the ancient trunk road
from Egypt to Syria and Mesopotamia. The site of numerous battles in biblical history, it is also one of the
cities of Solomon and Ahab, and where King Josiah of Judah fell in battle. In Revelation, Megiddo is
identified as Armageddon, the site of the world’s last great battle.
Mount Carmel is where Elijah contested and defeated the prophets of Baal by a mighty demonstration of
power from God. (1 Kings 18) You will visit the monastery at the top of the mountain and enjoy the
panoramic view. You will be able to see the Nazareth Ridge to the northeast, Mount Tabor and the Hill of
Moreh to the east, and to the southeast, Mount Gilboa. Below Mount Carmel lies the plain of Jezreel.
Nazareth (drive through). The city of Nazareth where Jesus spent his boyhood with his earthly parents,
Joseph and Mary, is located in the heart of an undulating valley. The Church of the Annunciation,
traditionally believed to be where the archangel Gabriel announced the conception of Jesus to the virgin
Mary, is located here.
Mount of Precipice. This is where the Gospel of Luke says Jesus was rejected by His fellow Nazarenes
after He had preached in the synagogue. Filled with anger they “led him to the brow of the hill on which
their city was built, that they might throw Him down over the cliff”. (Luke 4:29)
Cana in Galilee (drive through). Traditionally taken to be the site of Jesus’ first and second miracles,
the changing of water into wine at a wedding feast (John 2:1–11) and the healing of the son of a
nobleman living in Capernaum (John 4:43–54), Cana was also the home of Nathanael. (John 21:2) This
site is located on the road that leads from Nazareth to Tiberias.
(Overnight in Tiberias)
DAY 02 (Wednesday)
Mount of Beatitudes. This hill at the north-western point of the Sea of Galilee is where Jesus delivered
the famous Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew 5–7; Luke 6) The hill has a hollowed slope that serves as a
natural amphitheatre, amplifying any speaker’s voice. It also has a view of Capernaum and Tabgha.
Tabgha (name derived from the Greek Heptapegon or "seven springs"). According to tradition, this is the
location along the shores of the lake where Jesus called Peter and Andrew to follow Him and become
“fishers of men”. (Matthew 4:18–19) Walking on, Jesus found James and John preparing their nets in
their father Zebedee’s fishing boat, and called them to join him as well. (Matthew 4:20–22) Tabgha is also believed to be where the Miracle of the Loaves and the Fishes, or the Feeding of the 5,000, took place.
(Mark 6:35–44) We will have Holy Communion here.
Church of St Peter's Primacy. This is where the resurrected Jesus showed Himself to His disciples as
they were fishing and called out to them. (John 21) A touching scene followed as Jesus restored Peter,
who had denied Him before the crucifixion, and commissioned him to look after His sheep.
Korazim (Chorazin). An important Jewish town from the time of the Second Temple (515 BC to 70AD)
located north of Capernaum. Chorazin, together with Bethsaida and Capernaum, were rebuked by Jesus
for their lack of faith despite His doing most of His miracles in these cities. (Matthew 11:20–24) A typical
Galilean-style synagogue is one of the lonely remains of the city, which is otherwise bare.
Capernaum. Located on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum was the centre of Jesus’ Galilean
ministry (Matthew 4:13) after He left Nazareth. Jesus lived here for a substantial period, healing the sick,
preaching in the synagogue and performing miracles like delivering a man of unclean spirits. (Mark
1:23–26) Another miracle that was performed here was the healing of the paralytic lowered through the
roof. (Mark 2:1–12) Capernaum was also home to Peter and Andrew (Mark 1:29) and Matthew the tax
collector. Recent excavations are reputed to have located the remains of Peter’s house in this vicinity.
There are also the remains of a fourth century synagogue, believed to be built by the centurion whose
servant Jesus healed. (Luke 7:1–10) It is likely that this was in the synagogue in which Jesus declared
Himself as the bread of life.
The Sea of Galilee, also known as the Lake of Gennesaret, Lake Tiberias and Lake Kinneret in the
Bible, is a small lake fed by the river Jordan and lying about 180 metres below sea level. Violent storms
sometimes rush down from the surrounding mountains causing very rough waters. Here, Jesus rebuked
the winds and the sea (Matthew 8:23–27), taught from Peter’s boat, multiplied the loaves and fishes,
walked on water and calmed the storm. You will take a memorable boat ride in a traditional fishing boat of
first-century design. Look out for a spectacular sunset.
Kursi, the land of the Gadarenes or country of the Gerasenes, is identified as the site where Jesus
delivered the possessed man and sent the legion of demons into a large herd of swine. (Luke 8:26–33;
Mark 5:1–11; Matthew 8:28–34)
Ancient Boat Museum. The oldest wooden boat in Israel, discovered on the shore of the Sea of Galilee
in the winter of 1986, is found in this museum. It has been dated to the first half of the first century. Some
shopping can be done here.
(Overnight in Tiberias)
DAY 03 (Thursday)
Caesarea Philippi (Banias). Located to the north of the Sea of Galilee, on the south-western slope of
Mount Hermon, Caesarea Philippi is the source of one of the largest springs feeding the Jordan River.
Numerous temples were built here during the Hellenistic and Roman periods and this site was named
Panias (Banias in Arabic) after the Greek god Pan. Here, Jesus asked His profound question, “Who do
men say that I am?” and Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” (Matthew
16:13–20; Mark 8:27–30)
View of Mount Hermon. Although tradition connects Jesus’ Transfiguration with Mount Tabor, it is more
likely that the Transfiguration occurred on Mount Hermon. Mount Hermon is Israel's highest mountain
and the Hebrew "Hermon" can be translated as "the mountain set apart". This was where God declared
from heaven to Peter, James and John, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”
(Matthew 17:1–8; Mark 9:2–8; Luke 9:29–36)
Golan Heights (Bashan). In biblical times, this area was known for its cattle and its oak trees. (Amos
4:1–2, Zechariah 11:2, Isaiah 2:13) In the present day, the Golan Heights is a strategically significant
area closely guarded by Israel and its neighbours Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. From the top of the military
bunker, you can see the borders of all these nations.
Mount Tabor (view) is a prominent hill southwest of the Sea of Galilee. It was at the foot of this mountain
that Deborah and Barak defeated the forces of Sisera. Traditionally believed to be “the high mountain” which Jesus ascended with Peter, James and John, and where He was transfigured and seen conversing
with Moses and the prophet Elijah.
Beth Shean is an ancient city with a glorious past. The bodies of King Saul and his sons were hung from
its city walls after they were defeated and killed by the Philistines at nearby Mount Gilboa. During the
Greco-Roman period it known as Scythopolis, and its zenith was achieved during the Roman period,
when it was one of ten major cities, known as the Decapolis, in the area.
Harod Spring (Ein Harod), located in the shadow of Mount Gilboa, is the site where Gideon chose 300
warriors based on their drinking method and went on to defeat the Midianite army. (Judges 7:1–5)
(Overnight in Tiberias)
DAY 04 (Friday)
Yardenit, also known as the Jordan River baptism site, is located at the southern end of the Sea of
Galilee, where the Jordan flows out of the Sea on its way down to the Dead Sea. This location consists of
several baptismal sites, a gift shop and a restaurant serving the popular St Peter’s fish. Arrangements for
water baptism can also be made here.
Jericho (drive past) is probably the oldest city in the world and also the lowest place on earth. Led by
Joshua, the Israelites conquered the city with a mighty shout and the blowing of rams’ horns by the
priests (Joshua 6:6–20). It is probably near here that John the Baptist baptised converts at the Jordan
River and the likely site of Christ’s baptism. If the situation permits (due to the requirement of a military
escort) the group may be able to visit this historic site.
Masada (view). The location of Herod’s magnificent mountaintop palace and fortress is also the site of
the last Jewish stand against the Romans in 73 AD and the mass suicide of the 960 defenders.
Ein Gedi (literally “The Spring of the Kid”) is an oasis located near the Dead Sea known for its beautiful
springs, caves and abundant animal life. This was David’s refuge when he fled from King Saul. (1
Samuel 23:29) It was in one of the caves here that David cut off a corner of Saul’s robe. (1 Samuel 24)
Some of the psalms are believed to have been inspired in this area.
Qumran. The 2,000-year-old Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in a cave here by a Bedouin shepherd
chasing a stray sheep in 1947. Consolidated from scrolls found in some 11 caves, every Old Testament
book is represented except Esther.
Dead Sea. Biblically known as the Sea of the Arabah or the Salt Sea, its mineral content is so high that
nothing lives in it. With a salt concentration many times higher than that of the world’s oceans, the density
of the water in the Dead Sea is so high that anyone can float in it. With its unique concentration of
minerals, Dead Sea waters and mud have long been known to have health and cosmetic benefits.
Mount Scopus. Lying just within the official borders of the city of Jerusalem, this place is famous for its
panoramic view of the holy city.
(Overnight in Jerusalem)
DAY 05 (Saturday)
Holyland Model. A complete scale model of Jerusalem during Jesus’ time, this is a great visual aid for
visitors. Examine the miniature of the Second Temple of Jerusalem up close in preparation for your visit
to the actual site the next day.
The Israel Museum houses some of the most amazing pieces of archaeological artefacts ever
uncovered, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls which are the oldest known copies of the Old Testament
books.
The Mount of Olives lies to the east of Jerusalem and is named after the olive trees which grow on its
slopes. The Kidron Valley separates the mount from the Eastern Gate, the Temple Mount and the City of
David. At the foot of the mount is the garden of Gethsemane. The Mount of Olives is where Jesus wept over Jerusalem (Luke 19:37–41), and where He ascended to heaven after His resurrection. (Acts 1:9–12)
The Jews, and many Christians, believe that when the Messiah returns, He will descend on the Mount of
Olives and enter Jerusalem through the Eastern gate. (Zechariah 14:1–4; Ezekiel 44:1–3; 46:1–2, 8)
Dominus Flevit (Latin for “The Lord Wept”) is a small church located on the Mount of Olives, and is
believed to be where Jesus wept when he arrived in Jerusalem as He foresaw the tragic events that
would occur after His death (Luke 19:37–42). The church, built by the Franciscan order in 1954, is in the
unique shape of a teardrop, representing Christ’s tears. It commands an inspiring view.
Garden of Gethsemane. This garden contains ancient olive trees and is situated at the bottom of the
Mount of Olives and opposite the Temple Mount. “Gethsemane” also means “olive press”, an appropriate
name for the spot where Jesus was so hard pressed as He prayed that He sweated great drops of blood.
(Mark 14:32–42; Luke 22:44) This is also where Jesus was betrayed and arrested. (Mark 14:43–50)
Church of All Nations, also known as the Church of Agony, is located on the Mount of Olives within the
vicinity of Gethsemane. The church property includes a section of bedrock where Jesus is said to have
prayed. The stone is said to form a direct line with the Eastern Gate and where the entrance to the Holy
of Holies in the Second Temple is believed to have stood before.
Jerusalem Mall Shopping
(Overnight in Jerusalem)
DAY 06 (Sunday)
The Pool of Bethesda (“House of Mercy”) was where a large number of infirmed people waited to be
cured by the waters which were believed to have miraculous healing properties. It was here that Jesus
healed a paralytic of 38 years. (John 5:1–15) The pool is located within the grounds of the Crusader
Church of St Anne, built on the site where the home of Anne, the mother of Mary, is believed to have
stood. Designed for Gregorian chant, the acoustics of the church’s interior are phenomenal.
The Temple Mount is one of the most controversial and hotly contested sites in the world. Located in the
Old City of Jerusalem, it has special significance to the Jews as it was the site of both the First and
Second Temples. Many Jews also believe that the Temple Mount is the site of the third and final Temple,
to be built in the time of the Messiah. The Temple Mount also has great significance to the Muslims. The
Dome of the Rock, believed to be the spot from which the prophet Muhammad ascended through the
heavens to God accompanied by the archangel Gabriel, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque are located here. The
Temple Mount was built on Mount Moriah, where Abraham was prepared to sacrifice Isaac. It was also
where Jesus was presented in the Temple by His earthly parents Joseph and Mary and afterwards
stayed behind to debate with the teachers. (Luke 2:22–50) The veil in the temple was torn from top to
bottom when Jesus died at the cross. (Matthew 27:51)
The Dome of the Tablets/Spirits is located on the Temple Mount, just north of the Dome of the Rock.
There is a theory by Dr Asher Kaufman that this dome marks the site of the Holy of Holies in the Second
Temple, as the east-west line aligning the Mount of Olives with the Eastern Gate and the Temple cuts
through this very location.
The Via Dolorosa (The Way of Suffering) is the name of a street in the Old City of Jerusalem, believed
to be the path that Jesus walked on the way to His crucifixion. There are 14 stations, each signifying a
certain point in Christ’s journey with the last five stations situated inside the Church of the Holy
Sepulchre.
Ecce Homo Arch. The reconstructed ruins of this arch, with its three openings, can be seen as you
move from the second to the third station of the Via Dolorosa. This spot is named for Pilate’s presentation
of Jesus to the Jews after He was scourged, where he said, “Ecce Homo!” or “Behold the man!” (John
19:1–5)
The Lithostratos, or “The Pavement”, is located at the third station of the Via Dolorosa and is where
Pilate heard and sought to release Jesus. (John 19:13)
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built by the mother of Emperor Constantine in 330 AD and is
traditionally thought to be a possible site for the hill of crucifixion as well as Christ’s tomb. The primary
custodians of The Church of the Holy Sepulchre are the Greek Orthodox, the Armenian Apostolic and
Roman Catholic churches.
The Garden Tomb. Located outside the walls of Jerusalem, this garden is also believed to be the tomb
and site of Christ’s resurrection. The large cistern located underneath the garden indicates that this could
be the garden of Joseph of Arimathea. The Garden Tomb was discovered by General Charles Gordon in
1884 when he identified a prominent rocky crag, which looked like a skull, as Golgotha, or literally “place
of a skull”. In the midst of the garden lies a tomb whose interior meets all the requirements for the seating
of the two angels who spoke with Mary of Magdala. (John 20:10–18) A place of peace and tranquillity,
the Garden Tomb is ideal for believers to take Holy Communion, reflect and worship.
(Overnight in Jerusalem)
DAY 07 (Monday)
Mount Zion is a mountain near Jerusalem where a Jebusite fortress of the same name once stood. (2
Samuel 5:7) After David conquered this stronghold, he renamed it the City of David. (2 Samuel 5:9)
Located here are the sites of King David’s Tomb, the Upper Room, the Crypt of the Dormition
Church and the Lutheran Cemetery where Oscar Schindler’s grave can be found.
The Upper Room, also known as the Room of the Last Supper, is believed to be where Jesus shared
His last Passover meal with his disciples before His death. (Matthew 26:26–35; Luke 22:7–38) This was
also where the disciples were gathered together praying when the Holy Spirit descended upon them on
Pentecost after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus. (Acts 1:13–16) Located on Mount Zion just
outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, the Upper Room was rebuilt by the Crusaders after it was
razed to the ground by the Muslims. On the floor below the Upper Room is the traditional burial place of
David, known as King David’s Tomb.
The Church of St Peter in Gallicantu is one of the traditional locations for the house of Caiaphas where
Jesus stood trial before the Jewish religious leaders and where Peter denied Him three times.
“Gallicantu” means “rooster” or “cock crowing” and the chapel is built atop the ruins of a Byzantine church
and monastery.
Jaffa Gate is the only gate on the western side of the Old City of Jerusalem and was so named because
the road leading from it goes to the port city of Jaffa. Take note of the Hinnom/Gehenna valley that runs
from the Jaffa Gate on the west side of the Old City and then eastwards along the south side of Mount
Zion until it meets the Kidron Valley. In the English New Testament, the word “hell” is actually the word
“Gehenna”, a possible reference to this valley and its dark past of paganism and idol worship.
The Tower of David Museum is located in the heart of Jerusalem in a magnificently restored citadel and
is one of the best introductions to Jerusalem’s rich and colourful history.
The Western Wall is part of the retaining wall from the time of the Second Temple and is the most
sacred structure in Judaism. Jews have been praying at the Western Wall for centuries believing that the
spot is the holiest site on earth after the Holy of Holies. Your friends can see you live at the wall via the
Internet when you are there as there are 24-hour video webcams and live cameras installed there.
The Southern Temple Mount. Excavations here have unearthed the southern steps, a flight of stairs
that led to the main entrances of the Temple Mount. Other interesting finds here include a first-century
street, a series of public ritual bathing wells (mikveh) for pilgrims to purify themselves before entering
holy places and the ruins of Solomon’s stables.
The Jewish Quarter, in the southwest corner of the Old City, is where the remains of a north-south
colonnaded street called the Cardo, complete with some of the original Roman columns, can be found.
Just beyond the columns is an underground mall where you will find Jewish stores and art galleries.
(Overnight at Jerusalem)
DAY 08 (Tuesday)
Bethlehem, translated as “House of Bread” (Hebrew) or “House of Meat” (Arabic), is a city in the West
Bank where many significant events in the Bible occurred. Believed to be the birthplace of Jesus,
Bethlehem is also where David was born and where the tomb of Isaac’s beloved wife Rachel can be
found. The city is home to one of the largest Palestinian Christian communities in the Middle East and
special arrangements have to be made to enter this city.
The Church of the Nativity stands in the centre of Bethlehem over a cave called the Holy Crypt in
which, according to tradition, Mary gave birth to Jesus. This is possibly one of the oldest churches in the
world.
The Shepherds’ Field (drive past) is an area east of Bethlehem, believed to be where the angels
appeared to the shepherds in the field and announced the birth of Jesus. (Luke 2:8–10) Several
churches were built in this area to commemorate the event. You can still see local shepherds tending
their flocks here. Nearby is a fertile plain called the Field of Ruth.
Ein Karem (drive past), the “Spring of the Vineyard”, is the traditional birthplace of John the Baptist, son
of Zachariah and Elizabeth, and cousin of Jesus. The Church of St John the Baptist was built here to
mark this event.
The Valley of Elah (“oak”) was where the Philistines came against the army of Israel and where the
legendary battle of David against Goliath took place. (1 Samuel 17) In the dried-up riverbed of the Brook
of Elah, you can still find smooth stones similar to those which David had used to slay Goliath.
Adullam Cave is located at the east end of the Valley of Elah. This was where David is believed to have
hidden from Saul. (1 Samuel 22) There are many caves in the area and it is uncertain which is the exact
one, but the experience of being there will give you an idea of the living conditions David endured. Here,
David also captained a group of 400 men who were in distress, debt and discontent, transforming them
into his mighty fighting force.
The Road to Emmaus is where the resurrected Jesus appeared to his disciples and opened the
scriptures to them concerning Himself. (Luke 24:13–35) The disciples did not realise who was talking with
them until they invited Jesus to dinner and He took bread, gave thanks and gave it to them. (Luke 24:30)
Yad HaShmonah Biblical Garden is found in a rural village in the Judean hills. Run by messianic Israeli
Jews and Finnish Christians, the Biblical Garden displays plants and agricultural tools from biblical times.
It provides visitors with hands-on experience of the manners and customs of the ancient Israelites. The
garden contains olive trees and olive presses, grape vines and several winepresses, a wheat field and
threshing floor, a watchtower, Bedouin tents, an ancient Galilean synagogue and a burial cave.
After a sumptuous and memorable meal at the Biblical Garden’s restaurant, you will be taken back to
Ben Gurion International Airport at Tel Aviv for your flight home via Hong Kong.
DAY OF RETURN (Wednesday)
Arrive back in Singapore in the evening with many wonderful memories, a deeper revelation of Jesus and
a greater appreciation for the Bible.
Departure Return dates
20 Nov 06 to 29 Nov 06
27 Nov 06 to 06 Dec 06
04 Dec 06 to 13 Dec 06
11 Dec 06 to 20 Dec 06
18 Dec 06 to 27 Dec 06
01 Jan 07 to 10 Jan 07
08 Jan 07 to 17 Jan 07
15 Jan 07 to 24 Jan 07
posted by Lion at
6/28/2006 11:53:00 PM
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