Click photo to enlarge
This shrine, marking the place where Jesus is believed to have ascended to heaven, rests atop the Mt. of Olives. All that remains of many churches built here to celebrate the ascension of Jesus is this small octagonal structure, which is part of a mosque.
The first church built here was funded by Poemenia, a wealthy Roman woman who was a member of the imperial family, around 380 AD.
The Crusader Church of the Holy Ascension was taken by Saladin in 1187 AD and converted into a mosque and remains such today.
An unusual feature of the tiny building is that it contains what has been traditionally regarded as the last impression of Jesus’ right foot on earth before he ascended into heaven. (Please don't believe it, as we don't even know if this is the place from which Jesus ascended! In fact, two other places, very near this one, also claim to be the point of ascension.)
Here is something to keep in mind as you travel in the Holy Land. For centuries, churches have been built on traditional places where biblical events took place. Some may be accurate, if archaeology and history is on its side, but most churches are built on TRADITIONAL spots. In other words, there is nothing in history or archaeology to support the claim.
That's why I agree with my Bible College and life-long friend, Mike Coleman, about the Sea of Galilee: "I like Galilee because it's too big to build a church over it."
Comments
Post a Comment