From the impressive mosques of Istanbul to the hallowed grounds of Jerusalem and the desert landscapes of Jordan, our journey offered a profound opportunity for reflection, prayer, and spiritual renewal. In this post I share our transcendent quest for enlightenment and divine connection, as we explored the rich tapestry of faith and heritage that unites these three remarkable countries.
For many years, planning a religious pilgrimage was at the top of my bucket list. I longed to roam the Holy Land and walk the very soil where Jesus once trod. However, with my budget at the time, it seemed like an impossible dream, and I often thought the day would never come.
Everything changed when I met a man who shared my adventurous spirit. We fell in love, married, and I relocated from Florida to Oxford.
A few years later, seeking a simpler life filled with sunshine, my husband and I decided to leave the hustle and bustle of the UK. This decision required many sacrifices, including expensive getaways and, most definitely, any sort of pilgrimage.
We faced financial constraints.
After a few more years, I managed to save up my modest earnings, and finally, it happened... we planned a month-long pilgrimage to the Middle East, the Holy Land!
Traveling Overland Through Turkey
Our first stop was in Turkey. Izmir, to be exact. That's because Izmir was formerly known as Smyrna. Turkey, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times, and Smyrna was founded by the Greeks around the 11th century BC, and flourished as a major port city and a center of commerce and culture.
Conquered by the Romans, Smyrna became an important city in the Roman Empire, known for its impressive architecture, including the agora and theaters. It also held significance in early Christianity, being one of the seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation. The church was known as the martyr church and was one of the only churches to get clean marks by Jesus. Over centuries, Smyrna witnessed numerous invasions and transformations, eventually becoming part of the Ottoman Empire. Today, as Izmir, it stands as a vibrant modern city, preserving its historical legacy while embracing contemporary growth. I was eager to see the city and its ruins.
When we ticked that box, with great joy we boarded a bus to Ephesus!
Let me interrupt to tell you about the buses!
The coach companies operate luxury buses that run frequently and efficiently. You need never worry about renting a car in Turkey. It simply isn't necessary. These buses offer a comfortable travel experience akin to flying, complete with amenities such as device charging ports and complimentary snacks and refreshments served by attendants. Ours wore a red bowtie!
Enjoy the convenience and relaxation of Turkey's top-notch bus services, making your journey as pleasant as your destination.
Ephesus truly impressed us, and the man at our hotel gave us a helpful tip: visit the site in reverse. He warned that otherwise, everything we saw would be anticlimactic. So we did, and he was right! Additionally, we went early before the bus tours arrived, allowing us to explore Ephesus almost on our own. I was aghast to see the locals sitting on the ruins! This would never be allowed in my country! We even stepped onto the stage in the amphitheater and began to orate whatever came to our minds.
We loved the site, and when we finished, we enjoyed apple tea and baklava.
Ephesus is near a town called Selcuk, and it couldn't be more quaint! I fell in love with it. The food was amazing, and I had the best massage of my life. I highly recommend adding Ephesus and Selcuk to your must-see Turkey bucket list
The best part of Turkey was Hierapolis, located in Pamukkale. In fact, we stayed an additional day and visited the site again, just to sit in the natural thermal pools. The first infinity pools were made by God!
It was here that I suddenly understood what Jesus meant when he spoke of spitting out the lukewarm in his address to the complacent church of Laodicea that was once nearby. By the time the thermal waters reached Laodicea, they were lukewarm.
Many Christians were sent to Hierapolis by Emperor Justinian. Peter and Paul visited, and so did John, who relocated to a place outside the town with Mary, the mother of Jesus. We toured the house where she spent her final days. It was a memorable experience and a great way to begin our pilgrimage. Most of the seven churches addressed in Revelation are located in the vicinity, making it a worthy stop on a religious pilgrimage. We explored Turkey for a week.
Traveling Overland Through Israel
My journals of our month-long religious pilgrimage are extensive. To just offer a snippet of them, I feel like I'm cheating you! I feel I'm over-simplifying my trip, but it really is a life-changing experience to visit the Holy Land, to be able to visualize the biblical texts. I wish every one that possesses faith the size of a mustard seed could see it!
We rented a car for three weeks and wandered all around the country.
We sojourned first to Galilee, to have some rest and a restart. We immersed ourselves at once in local customs, culture, and cuisine. After a disastrous start where I was invited to pay 30% more for our extortionately priced hotel room after providing an American passport, we found a nice room in a Moshavim on the north side of Lake Kinneret, formerly know as the Sea of Galilee. From the hot tub, we drank local wine and admired Kinneret in the distance as the sun dropped behind the horizon turning varied shades of pastels.
This began our tour of Galilee as we circumnavigated it.
This area, central to the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, offers numerous sacred landmarks that attract pilgrims and tourists from around the world. Here are the religious, holy sites we visited:
Capernaum: Known as the "Town of Jesus," Capernaum is where Jesus performed many miracles and taught in the synagogue. It was home to the prophet Nahum., hence the name. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the ancient synagogue and the nearby House of Peter.
Mount of Beatitudes: This serene hilltop is traditionally believed to be the location where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount. The beautiful Church of the Beatitudes, surrounded by lush gardens, offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee.
Tabgha: Famous for the miracle of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes, Tabgha is home to the Church of the Multiplication. This church features stunning Byzantine mosaics, including the iconic depiction of the loaves and fishes.
Church of the Primacy of St. Peter: Located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, this site commemorates Jesus' post-resurrection appearance to Peter and the disciples. The church is built on the rock where Jesus is believed to have prepared breakfast for them.
Magdala: The ancient town of Magdala is traditionally considered the home of Mary Magdalene. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a first-century synagogue where Jesus is believed to have taught, as well as other significant ruins.
Yardenit Baptismal Site: Situated where the Jordan River flows out of the Sea of Galilee, Yardenit is a popular pilgrimage destination for those wishing to be baptized in the same waters as Jesus. The site is beautifully maintained and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer.
Kursi: This site is believed to be where Jesus performed the miracle of casting demons into a herd of swine. Visitors can explore the ruins of a Byzantine monastery and church that commemorate this event.
Visiting Galilee left an indelible mark on me, unlike any other place I've experienced in my travels to around 80 countries. Its sacredness resonated deeply within me, as if the land itself holds the wisdom of its storied history and is watched over by the Holy Spirit across millennia. It's a feeling I'll forever cherish.
From Galilee, our journey took us to the Dead Sea, where we paused to explore the Mount of Temptation and Jericho, the world's oldest city. Both sites left us inspired, breathing new life into the word of God.
Among the remarkable places we encountered at the Dead Sea, the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve stood out. Here, amidst the timeless landscape where David sought refuge from King Saul, we felt a profound sense of sacredness. It was as though this land has also remained untouched for millennia, with the very rams David once wrote about still roaming its terrain. It's a place of lush vegetation, flowing with numerous waterfalls and hiking routes and a must-see!
Exploring the Holy Sites in Jerusalem
I purposefully planned our trip to align with Passover so we could experience it in Jerusalem. We got more than we bargained for, enjoying a seder feast in the humble and chaotic flat of a retired rabbi, who had much to teach us. There's plenty for Christians and Jews to go head-to-head over.
Here's a caveat: If you have no interest in experiencing Passover in Israel, do not go at this time! Shelf after shelf is covered with plastic. Only unleavened food can be sold and eaten in shops and restaurants during Passover. Options are scant to none, and if you're gluten intolerant...bring your own food! Prices are high, too, and transport crowded, if available! This is also true during Sukkot, and the fall feasts, although there's more food options.
Our accommodation was outside the historic center, making it easy to get in and by car when we wanted. We mostly used public transport coming and going from the city center and the old city.
Jerusalem is a pilgrimage destination for millions, offering profound religious and cultural experiences across its sacred landmarks. Here are the holy sites we visited over the week:
The Western Wall (Wailing Wall): This ancient limestone wall is a remnant of the Second Temple and one of Judaism's most revered sites. Pilgrims from around the world come to pray and place written prayers in the wall's crevices.
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Located in the Christian Quarter, this church is believed to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. It houses the Stone of Anointing and the Holy Sepulchre itself, drawing countless Christian pilgrims.
The Dome of the Rock: An iconic symbol of Jerusalem, this Islamic shrine is situated on the Temple Mount. It is revered in Islam as the place where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Night Journey.
Al-Aqsa Mosque: Also on the Temple Mount, Al-Aqsa is the third holiest site in Islam. Its striking silver dome and rich history make it a focal point for Muslim worshippers and visitors.
The Via Dolorosa: This historic route in the Old City is believed to be the path Jesus walked on the way to his crucifixion. Pilgrims trace the 14 Stations of the Cross, reflecting on his suffering and sacrifice.
The Mount of Olives: Offering panoramic views of Jerusalem, this site is significant in both Jewish and Christian traditions. It features the Church of All Nations, the Garden of Gethsemane, and ancient Jewish tombs.
The Garden Tomb: Considered by some to be the actual site of Jesus' burial and resurrection, this peaceful garden offers a serene environment for reflection and worship.
The Cenacle (Upper Room): This site on Mount Zion is traditionally held to be the location of the Last Supper and Pentecost. It is a place of profound significance for Christians.
The City of David: An archaeological treasure trove, the City of David reveals the ancient roots of Jerusalem. Visitors can explore Hezekiah's Tunnel and the Pool of Siloam.
The Tomb of the Virgin Mary: Located at the foot of the Mount of Olives, this site is believed to be the burial place of Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is a revered spot for Christian pilgrims. Although it does cause me to raise an eyebrow, having just visited the house she once lived in near Selcuk. Did they transport her body back to Jerusalem?
Kidron Valley Prayer Room: A hidden gem among Jerusalem's many holy sites. Nestled in the historic Kidron Valley, this serene sanctuary offers a tranquil space for reflection and prayer away from the bustling city. The Kidron Valley itself holds deep biblical significance, often mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments. Visitors to the Kidron Valley Prayer Room can immerse themselves in the valley's rich history and spiritual atmosphere. The valley is home to several ancient tombs, including the Tomb of Absalom, the Tomb of Zechariah, and the Tomb of the Sons of Hezir, which are revered by both Jewish and Christian traditions. The Prayer Room provides a peaceful retreat where pilgrims can meditate and connect with the sacred surroundings. Its proximity to other significant sites, such as the Mount of Olives and the Garden of Gethsemane, enhances its spiritual allure, making it a must-visit for those seeking a deeper, more contemplative experience in Jerusalem.
Garden of Gethsemane: One of Jerusalem's most sacred sites, located at the foot of the Mount of Olives. This revered garden holds immense significance in Christian tradition as the place where Jesus prayed and underwent agony before his arrest and crucifixion. The Garden of Gethsemane is a tranquil and reflective spot, adorned with ancient olive trees that are believed to date back to the time of Jesus. Visitors can walk among these historic trees and contemplate the pivotal moments that took place here, as described in the Gospels. Adjacent to the garden is the Church of All Nations, also known as the Basilica of the Agony. This stunning church features beautiful mosaics and marks the site where Jesus prayed on the night of his betrayal.
Inside, the Rock of Agony is believed to be the very rock upon which Jesus prayed, adding to the site's profound spiritual significance. The Garden of Gethsemane is not only a place of deep historical and religious importance but also a serene oasis where pilgrims can meditate, pray, and connect with their faith. Its peaceful ambiance, coupled with its rich biblical heritage, makes it an essential destination for any visit to Jerusalem.
Jerusalem's holy sites offer a unique blend of spiritual depth and historical richness, making it an unparalleled destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. Discover the sacred landmarks of this ancient city and immerse yourself in the profound heritage and faith that Jerusalem embodies.
Exploring the Holy Sites in Jordan
As we traversed south, away from the holy sites in the north, we came to the Red Sea where we camped with the locals. So many people flooded the region, as it was their holy spring festivals, that the place looked like a refugee camp and we ended about four lines back from the sea.
The Red Sea holds deep spiritual significance, intertwined with ancient stories and profound symbolism. In biblical times, it was often referred to as the "Reed Sea," a term that evokes images of its marshy shores and reed-filled waters.
One of the most famous accounts involving the Red Sea is the biblical story of the Exodus, where the Israelites, led by Moses, fled from Egypt and miraculously crossed the sea on dry land. According to the biblical narrative, as recorded in the Book of Exodus, Moses stretched out his hand, and the waters parted, allowing the Israelites to pass through safely. This miraculous event is seen as a demonstration of divine intervention and deliverance.
We weren't far off from one of the proposed sites of the crossing.
A couple of days later, we left the Eilat region and made our way to Jordan en-route to Wadi Rum and then Petra.
There are ties to ancient Israel with both of these sights that you might not be aware of.
Wadi Rum: The Valley of the Moon
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a desert valley located in southern Jordan. This majestic landscape, with its towering sandstone mountains and vast sandy expanses, holds significant spiritual and historical importance:
Biblical Connections:
Exodus and Wanderings: Wadi Rum is often associated with the region where the Israelites wandered during their 40 years in the desert after their exodus from Egypt. Although not explicitly named in the Bible, the geography and historical context suggest that this area could be part of the wilderness where the Israelites traveled.
Land of Edom: The area around Wadi Rum is traditionally linked to the ancient land of Edom, which is mentioned frequently in the Old Testament. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob (Israel), and the region plays a role in the biblical narrative, particularly in the conflicts and interactions between the Israelites and the Edomites.
Natural Beauty and Reflection:
Spiritual Retreat: The serene and stark beauty of Wadi Rum makes it an ideal place for spiritual reflection and retreat. The vastness and silence of the desert landscape can inspire contemplation and a sense of connection with the divine.
Petra: The Rose-Red City
Petra, an archaeological wonder located near Wadi Rum, is renowned for its rock-cut architecture and historical significance. This ancient city, which served as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, also holds deep spiritual connections:
Biblical Significance:
Edom and Seir: Petra is situated in the territory historically known as Edom, or Mount Seir. The Bible references Edom and its rocky strongholds numerous times. Petra’s formidable cliffs and hidden pathways resonate with the descriptions of Edom's landscape.
Obadiah’s Prophecy: The Book of Obadiah contains a prophecy against Edom, highlighting its pride in its seemingly impregnable rock-hewn dwellings. Petra, with its grand and secure structures, exemplifies the pride and eventual downfall that the prophecy speaks of (Obadiah 1:3-4).
Nabataean Religion:
Nabataean Deities: Petra was a center of Nabataean culture and religion. The Nabataeans worshiped a pantheon of deities, with Dushara, the chief god, and Al-‘Uzza, a goddess associated with fertility and the planet Venus, being prominent. The numerous temples and altars carved into Petra’s cliffs reflect the spiritual life of the Nabataeans.
Religious Syncretism: The Nabataeans were known for their religious syncretism, blending elements from various cultures and religions, including those of the surrounding Arab tribes and Hellenistic influences. This cultural and religious melting pot adds a layer of spiritual richness to Petra.
Connection to Ancient Israel
The spiritual significance of Wadi Rum and Petra is intertwined with the history and narratives of ancient Israel:
Shared Heritage: The Israelites, Edomites, and Nabataeans shared a common heritage as Semitic peoples. Their histories and spiritual journeys are interwoven, with frequent references to Edom and the surrounding regions in the Old Testament.
Prophetic Fulfillment: The prophecies concerning Edom, particularly those in Obadiah and Jeremiah, find a tangible expression in the ruins of Petra. These prophecies speak to the broader theme of divine justice and the fate of nations that oppose God’s people.
Pilgrimage and Reflection: For modern spiritual seekers, visiting Wadi Rum and Petra offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the ancient biblical narratives, the interplay of different cultures, and the enduring themes of faith, pride, and redemption.
In summary, Wadi Rum and Petra are not only spectacular natural and archaeological sites but also places of profound spiritual significance. Their connections to ancient Israel and the broader biblical narrative provide a rich context for understanding the historical and religious heritage of the region.
Tip: Mine is a cautionary tale. If you plan to visit Jordan, be vigilant about your travel arrangements! We faced a harrowing experience when our scheduled bus from Wadi Rum to Petra was reportedly full. Our guide quickly arranged for us to travel with a local driver who happened to be heading to Petra. However, we were warned that he was in a rush and would be driving fast.
The journey, which typically takes around two hours, was completed in just one hour—an hour filled with sheer terror. Our driver zoomed around mountain curves and made several dangerous passes on the freeway, endangering not only our lives but also those of innocent bystanders. It felt like a thrill ride from a nightmare, one that could have ended in disaster.
When faced with a similar situation, do not take the risk! As we sped along, we even passed the bus we were supposed to be on—it was empty. In hindsight, I would have gladly paid twice as much to travel at a safe and comfortable speed. Your safety is worth far more than the cost or convenience of a rushed journey.
Are you interested in planning a religious pilgrimage like this? SamSol Travel Solutions can help! We'll take on the stress for you and tailor a journey to fit your needs. A pilgrimage is the trip of a lifetime. Make it as special as can be.
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