The City of David, often overlooked in historical discussions, has emerged as a treasure trove for understanding biblical heritage. Recently, Glenn Beck interviewed Ze’ev Orenstein, the Director of International Affairs for the City of David Foundation, delving into its archaeological significance. Their conversation illuminated the city’s crucial role in affirming the historical and spiritual truths found in Scripture.
When people imagine biblical Jerusalem, iconic images like the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, or the Garden Tomb often come to mind. However, Ze’ev Orenstein reveals that these locations, while significant, do not correspond to the original Jerusalem described in the Hebrew Bible. Instead, the City of David, located just outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, holds that distinction.
“The walls of the Old City of Jerusalem are only 500 years old,” Orenstein explained, “built during the Ottoman period.” In contrast, the history of the City of David stretches back 4,000 years, serving as the epicenter where biblical kings ruled and prophets preached.
The Quest for Biblical Treasures
The City of David’s rediscovery began in earnest in 1867 when Queen Victoria sent Captain Charles Warren to the Holy Land. Warren’s objective was to uncover biblical treasures like the Ark of the Covenant. However, religious restrictions on excavating the Temple Mount forced him to shift his focus. This pivot led to groundbreaking discoveries in the City of David, revealing truths hidden beneath the surface for centuries.
Preserving and Excavating Amid Challenges
One of the most challenging aspects of archaeology in Jerusalem is balancing modern living with ancient excavation. The City of David spans only 11 acres, much of which lies beneath modern buildings and roads. “Two-thirds of the City of David has yet to be excavated,” Orenstein shared. Despite these constraints, archaeologists have made remarkable finds while respecting the integrity of contemporary neighborhoods.
Unearthing Evidence of Faith
For many, the Bible is a matter of faith. However, the discoveries in the City of David provide tangible evidence affirming the historical accuracy of biblical accounts. From seals bearing the names of King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah to inscriptions referencing King David, the findings have silenced skeptics.
Orenstein recounted the groundbreaking discovery of the Tel Dan Stele in 1993, which references the “House of David.” This find confirmed the existence of King David as a historical figure, shifting the academic debate from whether David existed to how significant his kingdom was.
The Pilgrimage Road: Walking in Jesus’ Footsteps
One of the most awe-inspiring discoveries is the Pilgrimage Road, a 2,000-year-old pathway connecting the Pool of Siloam to the Temple Mount. Millions of pilgrims, including Jesus, would have walked this “biblical superhighway” during festivals like Passover. “There’s no doubt,” Orenstein affirmed, “that Jesus walked this road.”
The Pool of Siloam itself was uncovered in 2004 after a broken sewage pipe led to its accidental discovery. This site, significant to both Christians and Jews, holds stories of healing and ritual purification. Today, archaeologists continue to excavate and preserve this sacred pathway.
The Ark of the Covenant: Hidden in Plain Sight?
The Ark of the Covenant remains one of history’s greatest mysteries. While some speculate its location to be in Ethiopia or Saudi Arabia, Orenstein believes it is hidden somewhere in Jerusalem. Referencing biblical passages, he explained that King Josiah likely had the Ark placed in hiding to protect it from invaders.
“The Ark is not a gimmick,” Orenstein emphasized, recounting biblical stories where the Ark’s power was mishandled with dire consequences. Whether it will ever be found remains uncertain, but Orenstein is confident it would be revealed only when the time is right.
A Legacy Under Threat
Despite these discoveries, Jerusalem’s biblical heritage faces challenges. Orenstein discussed efforts to erase this history, including destructive excavations on the Temple Mount. He criticized the removal of tons of earth containing ancient artifacts, which were dumped without care. Dedicated archaeologists and volunteers sift through this debris, recovering coins, pottery, and other relics that affirm Jerusalem’s biblical history.
Orenstein pointed out the political dimension of this erasure. “If the story you want to tell about Jerusalem is exclusively Islamic, you will hate a place like the City of David,” he explained. Archaeological discoveries that affirm Jewish and Christian ties to Jerusalem disrupt narratives that deny this connection.
A Living Testament
The City of David is more than a historical site; it is a testament to the enduring relevance of the Bible. Unlike ancient civilizations like Egypt or Babylon, whose legacies are confined to museum wings, the story of Israel continues to shape the modern world. Walking through the City of David, visitors can touch the past and see how it continues to influence the present.
“There is no place in the world where you can take the Bible in one hand and what’s being unearthed in the other and see the Bible come to life,” Orenstein declared. In an age of increasing skepticism, these discoveries provide irrefutable evidence that the Bible is not just a book of faith but a record of historical fact.
Conclusion: Faith Meets Fact
The City of David stands as a beacon for believers and historians alike, bridging the gap between faith and fact. As discoveries continue to emerge, they reaffirm the Bible’s historical accuracy and its profound impact on civilization. In the words of Orenstein, “At a time of unprecedented biblical denial, there is unprecedented discovery affirming the Bible.” For anyone seeking to connect with the roots of their faith, the City of David offers an unparalleled journey through history.
For more information, visit cityofdavid.org.il.