On the Mount of Olives, overlooking the Temple Mount across the Kidron Valley, history and faith converge in a view that has captivated generations. This location, explored recently by Josh Wander and journalist Adam Eliayhu Berkowitz, is believed to be one of the ancient sites where the red heifer was sacrificed—a ritual of profound biblical significance.
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As Berkowitz notes, Israel’s current candidates for the red heifer sacrifice has taken center stage in recent news. According to Berkowitz, the location itself is considered essential. “That [Temple Mount] is the only place where the Jews are permitted to do the temple service, is to build an altar and to do it right there.” Berkowitz further states, “Even if we don’t build the third temple, we are required as we stand here right now, we have a biblical requirement to do the temple service.”
Wander further states that, “…it is not unusual to find mosques and churches placed on top of Jewish holy sites.” Wander says that the area they were exploring on the Mount of Olives was claimed by the Vatican. “But, we will see soon that there is a very deep Jewish ancient connection to this place.”
Whether Wander recognizes his statement or not, it is rather prophetic since the current site of where the Third Temple would be located is right where the Al-Aqsa Mosque stands. If more Jewish and Islamic sites were placed together, could we actually see peace in the Middle East?
Exploring more of the Mount of Olives, the two uncovered burial caves where bodies were left to decompose for approximately a year, after which the bones were gathered into custom-made boxes. Some coffins even depict the temple, suggesting the deceased may have served as a temple priest.
The two also discussed how the Dome of the Rock corresponds to the Holy of Holies, while the Dome of the Chain marks the altar. Nearby arches once held the Doors of Nicanor, and a series of stairs allowed Levites to sing and play instruments leading to the women’s court. The east-to-west orientation reflects the careful design of Temple rituals and spaces.
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Today, the Mount of Olives site is more than a historical landmark; it is a tangible connection to sacred practices that have endured for millennia. From burial caves to precise architectural alignments, the location offers scholars, religious leaders and visitors alike a window into the religious life of the Second Temple period and perhaps just what we can prophetically anticipate in the coming days ahead of time.
Abby Trivett is a writer and editor for Charisma Media and has a passion for sharing the gospel through the written word. She holds two degrees from Regent University, a B.A. in Communication with a concentration in Journalism and a Master of Arts in Journalism. She is the author of the upcoming book, The Power of Suddenly: Discover How God Can Change Everything in a Moment.
