Hebrew University Uncovers 2,000-Year-Old Bathing Complex Near Temple Mount, Preserving a 14-Foot-High Mikveh
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Nov 5
Hebrew University Uncovers 2,000-Year-Old Bathing Complex Near Temple Mount, Preserving a 14-Foot-High Mikveh
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Nov 5
Summary
Hebrew University archaeologists uncovered a 2,000-year-old ritual bathing complex in Jerusalem's Ophel, just south of the Temple Mount near the ancient Triple Gate.
The early first-century A.D. site includes three large ritual baths, a plastered pool, a paved plaza and an extensive water system, indicating it served Jewish pilgrims purifying themselves before entering the Second Temple.
One bath stands nearly 14 feet tall with its original vaulted stone ceiling and water shaft intact, a level of preservation researchers called exceptionally rare for such a central Jerusalem site.
Dozens of coins from the First Jewish Revolt were found on the floors and in destruction debris, while an older purification facility beneath the complex suggests the site had been used since at least the first century B.C.
Scholars said the find clarifies how Jewish purification practices in Jesus' era helped shape Christian baptism, even though there is no evidence Jesus or his disciples used this specific complex.