Jerusalem Part 1 — King David, Springs & Sacred Stones

Join hosts John and Bethany of the ETS Travel Podcast for part 1 of a two-part study of Jerusalem, focusing on its Old Testament significance. This episode surveys Jerusalem’s geography, archaeology, and long religious history — from King David’s capture of the city and Solomon’s Temple to the prophets, exile, and eventual return. Bethany, a Business Development Manager at ETS, and John guide listeners through how these layers of history shape the modern visitor’s experience. Topics covered include the Ottoman-built Old City and the earlier buried layers beneath it; the City of David and its compact footprint in David’s time; recent excavations such as the Pilgrim’s Road and the newly reopened Pool of Siloam; and the essential role of water in ancient Jerusalem as seen at the Gihon Spring and Hezekiah’s Tunnel (wet and dry routes, practical visitor notes on darkness, uneven footing, ducking in low passages, and why walking shoes matter). The episode examines the Temple Mount’s Old Testament importance — Araunah’s threshing floor, Solomon’s Temple, themes of sacrifice, repentance and covenant — while offering practical guidance for modern visitors about access and respectful behavior around the Dome of the Rock and Al‑Aqsa. Listeners will hear how the prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Micah and others) critiqued idolatry, called for justice and repentance, and held out hope for restoration. Jerusalem’s defining valleys — the Kidron, Tyropoeon and Hinnom — are discussed to help listeners visualize biblical narratives such as David’s flight during Absalom’s rebellion, ritual and reform activity, and prophetic warnings about judgment. The episode also connects Old Testament themes of kingship, worship, prophecy, judgment, exile and restoration to tangible sites and travel experiences, emphasizing how seeing the landscape deepens Scripture reading and ministry. Key takeaways and travel tips: archaeological discovery is ongoing; the visible Old City walls date largely to the Ottoman period; bring good walking shoes and be prepared for uneven and sometimes wet terrain in excavations and tunnels; follow local rules on the Temple Mount and be respectful of other faiths; and expect part 2, which will explore Jerusalem through the New Testament lens, following the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus.