Page 78 - Bible Geography and Near East Studies

Southern Israel - continued

Connect…

Today, we will continue to move north and will arrive in Jerusalem. It is an amazing city, built on Mt.
Moriah, the exact place where Isaac was offered as a sacrifice. In fact, the temple, where daily sacrifices
were offered, was probably built close to the exact spot. Jesus was offered up as a Passover lamb on
Calvary, a few hundred feet away. And He will return to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, sitting
on a throne in the Temple close to the same spot as where Isaac was offered. It all comes together
when you see it. Today, let’s journey from the other cities south of Jerusalem….

The Lesson ...

Southern Israel - continued

Lachish
It took two days for Joshua to take
control of this city, which shows its
military strength (Josh. 10:31-32).
Under King Rehoboam, it became
one of the strongest fortresses of
Judah (2 Chr. 10:9). It was
assaulted and probably taken by
Sennacherib, king of Assyria. He
used this city as his base camp
when moving north to siege
Jerusalem. The town is on hilly
ground, some parts higher than
others. The area is covered with
vines of grapes, fig trees, and
palms. The Jews reoccupied
Lachish upon their return to Israel
from Babylon (Neh. 11:30)

Hebron
Hebron is one of the most ancient cities in the world still existing. The vicinity was long the favorite
camping-ground of the patriarchs. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob dwelt here, and it was here that Abraham
bought a burial tomb – the Cave of Machpelah. It also became a city of refuge for those who
inadvertently committed a crime. Hebron was the city that David occupied after his city of Ziklag was
destroyed by the Amalekites. It was here that he was crowned king of Judah, and the city became his
first capital. It is located in a valley whose sides are clothed with vineyards, groves of olives, and other
fruit trees.
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