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The Gihon Spring - City of David Jerusalem

THE GIHON SPRING CITY OF DAVID

 

 

The Gihon Spring Jerusalem City of David

 

THE GIHON WATER SPRING JERUSALEM CITY OF DAVID

 

 

The Gihon Spring is a historic and significant site located in the city of David Jerusalem. The spring is considered one of the most important sources of water in ancient Jerusalem from the times of King David and was a critical factor in the city's development and growth during the years. Throughout history, the Gihon Spring has been a site of political, religious, and cultural significance, and it remains an important visiting destination for tourists and religious Jewish/Protestant pilgrims today.

 

The Gihon Spring, which is located outside the Old City walls of Jerusalem, is regarded as one of the earliest and most significant freshwater sources in the Judean Mountains area. It is a natural spring that once served as Jerusalem's main water supply for its citizens. The city's rulers, who had access control over the water source, guarded the spring and it was surrounded by fortifications.

 

Jerusalem and the surrounding area's history both benefited from the Gihon Spring. King David seized control of Jerusalem in the 10th century BC and made it his capital. He strengthened the spring and its surroundings, turning it into a key location in the city. The First Temple era, which spanned from the 10th to the 5th centuries BC, was also connected to the spring. The spring was used for religious rituals at this time and was regarded as a sacred location.

 

The Gihon Spring continued to be vital to the growth and development of the city during the Second Temple period.The Pool of Siloam, which was used for ceremonial purification and was thought to have healing properties, received its water from the spring. Numerous pilgrims traveled to the Gihon Spring and the Pool of Siloam, two of the most significant locations in ancient Jerusalem.

 

The Gihon Spring was accidentally rediscovered in the 19th century by a British engineer by the name of Robinson. He happened upon the location while looking for the spring's source. The man recorded the discovery in his journal after being astounded by what he saw. The spring was soon discovered, restored, and has since become a well-liked tourist attraction.

 

The Gihon Spring is currently regarded as one of Jerusalem's most significant cultural and historical sites. It is situated close to the Old City and the Temple Mount in the Jerusalem neighborhood of Silwan. Visitors are welcome to the spring, where they can descend a staircase to the water's edge and view the old rock walls that encircle it. It is a tranquil location with lush greenery all around and a relaxing atmosphere.

 

In conclusion, the Gihon Spring is a crucial historical, cultural, and religious location that has had a significant impact on Jerusalem's history as well as that of the surrounding area. The spring has long been revered by Jews, Christians, and other cultures as a place of pilgrimage, political significance, and cultural importance. One of Jerusalem's most popular tourist destinations, the Gihon Spring continues to draw countless tourists each year who come to take in its natural beauty, discover its past, and consider its spiritual significance.

 

Where is the Gihon Spring mentioned in the Bible?

 
 
 

The Gihon Spring is mentioned in the Bible in the book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 2:13. It was one of the sources of water for the Garden of Eden and is described as the "head of the River Gihon". In the Bible, the Gihon Spring is also mentioned as one of the four rivers that flowed out of Eden.

When Solomon is crowned, the Book of Kings describes him washing his anointing oil in the Gihon spring (1 Kings 1:33). Later King Hezekiah blocked the spring's exit route and directed the water into the city, according to the Chronicles book (1 Chronicle 32:30).

 

How to get to the Gihon spring?

 
 
 

The Gihon Spring is located in the Silwan neighborhood of Jerusalem, near the Old City and the Temple Mount. Visitors can reach the spring by taking public transportation, by taxi, or by walking from Jerusalem Old City through the Dung Gate.

 

Bus or light train: Tourists can take the light rail or bus to the City of David stop and then walk to the spring. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and the walk to the spring can take between 20-30 minutes.

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By Taxi: Another option is to take a taxi to the Gihon Spring. Taxis are widely available in Jerusalem, and the journey to the spring takes approximately 10-15 minutes from the Jaffa Gate, the taxi will bring you to the bottom of Silwann village.

By walking: For those who prefer to walk, the Gihon Spring is located approximately 30 minutes from the Jerusalem Jewish Quarter. The walk is downhill, and the route is well-signed and easy to follow, just walk by the City of David main gate all the way down and then turn left.

 

Visitors to the Gihon Spring should be aware that the site is located in the Arab neighborhood of Silwan and that there may be security concerns in the area. Visitors are advised to be cautious and to follow the advice of local authorities.

 

 

VISIT THE GIHON SPRING ON A CLASSIC JERUSALEM TOUR!

 

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SLAVA BAZARSKY
PHONE: +972 53 4779797

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