In a remarkable archaeological find, experts in Israel have unearthed a sacred Christian site in Jerusalem that has been hidden for over 2,000 years. These newly discovered steps lead to the ancient Pool of Siloam, where Jesus performed a miracle by healing a blind man. The discovery of these steps, which were previously unknown to us, is nothing short of a miracle itself.
The Unveiling of the Steps
The journey to uncover the steps to the ancient Pool of Siloam began in 2004 during construction work to repair a large sewage pipe south of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount in the City of David. As the repair procedure was underway, an unusual scraping noise caught the attention of the archaeologists on site. Upon further examination, they identified the presence of ancient stone steps in the vicinity. This unexpected discovery sparked a series of major excavations in the area, leading to the revelation of the steps that had been concealed for centuries.
A Monumental Pool from the Second Temple Period
Further excavation revealed that the steps were part of a monumental pool from the Second Temple period, the same era in which Jesus lived. The pool, discovered by archaeologists Reich and Shukron, spans an impressive length of 225 feet and features corners slightly greater than 90 degrees, suggesting a trapezoidal shape. Its widening end is oriented toward the Tyropoeon valley, adding to its architectural significance. The monumental nature of the pool suggests its importance within the historical and religious context of the time.
The Pool’s Significance for Jews and Christians
While the Pool of Siloam is believed to have served as a mikveh, a ritual bath for Jewish pilgrims to purify themselves before visiting the Temple, it also holds great significance for Christians. According to the Gospel of John (John 9:1-11), Jesus encountered a man blind from birth near the steps leading to the pool. Moved by compassion, Jesus instructed the blind man to wash his eyes in the Pool of Siloam, resulting in his miraculous restoration of sight. This profound act of healing has solidified the Pool of Siloam as a sacred site for Christians worldwide.
Biblical References and Historical Context
The importance of the Pool of Siloam is not limited to the New Testament. In the Old Testament book of II Kings 20:20, there is a mention of a pool believed to be the same Siloam Pool. This biblical reference adds historical depth to the significance of the pool, bridging the gap between ancient texts and archaeological evidence. The ancient Pool of Siloam is estimated to have been constructed approximately 2,700 years ago during the reign of King Hezekiah. Its construction involved a remarkable feat of engineering, as water from the Gihon Spring flowed through a 1,750-foot tunnel under the City of David to reach the pool. At its peak, the pool covered an area of 1.25 acres, making it a substantial religious landmark of its time.
The City of David and Its Heritage
The ongoing excavations within the City of David, the historic site of Biblical Jerusalem, have shed light on the rich heritage of the region. The discoveries of the Pool of Siloam and the Pilgrimage Road serve as powerful affirmations of the millennia-old bond that Jews and Christians share with Jerusalem. Ze’ev Orenstein, the international affairs director for the City of David Foundation, emphasizes the profound significance of these ongoing excavations, stating that they hold immeasurable value not just to millions, but to billions of people around the world. The City of David is a half-mile stretch that holds tremendous cultural, historical, and religious importance.
Opening to the Public
Exciting news has emerged from the Israel Antiquities Authority, the Israel National Parks Authority, and the City of David Foundation. They have announced plans to open the Siloam Pool and the nearby biblical site to the public after a hiatus of 2,000 years. This unprecedented decision will allow visitors to experience firsthand the awe-inspiring steps to the ancient Pool of Siloam, immersing themselves in the historical and spiritual significance of this sacred place.
When will you idiots understand that there were no “jews” during the time of Christ. The only “jews” were the Pharisees who were edomites! Today’s “jews” are NOT descendants of Abraham, nor were they Israelites/Hebrews. Acceptance, by Christians, of this whole “jew” narrative is heresy.