Mount Of Temptation Near Jericho

 The Mount Of Temptation In Jericho, Israel

The Mount of Temptation where Jesus was tempted by the Devil, in the West Bank city of Jericho ,is currently home to the Monastery of Temptation, which clings to the side of the mountain. Mount Quarantania, as it is known locally, is traditionally regarded to be the place where Jesus was tempted by the Devil during his long 40 day fast.The monastery is open for visitation during the week, except for Sunday. Both men and women are allowed to visit this Greek Orthodox Monastery. 

The Mount of Temptation is just west of the West Bank city of Jericho. It is about a 30 minute hike up a very steep path to get to the summit. (It can also be reached by a 5 minute cable car ride. )This steep path will take you through the monastery, which you are invited to visit. The view from the top of the mountain is breathtaking. You will feast your eyes on views of the Jordan Valley, the River Jordan, the Dead Sea and in the distance you will even see the mountains of Moab and Gilead. On a clear day it is possible to see Jerusalem in the distance as well.

The temptation of Jesus is recorded in three of the Gospels. Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, and Mark 1:12-13 all record the event where the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the desert near Jericho where he fasted for 40 days. As He was fasting, the devil tempted him three times. The devil wanted Him to prove who He was by using power that only He would have. Instead, each time he answered with a quote from the Book of Deuteronomy.  During His ordeal he quoted Deuteronomy 8:3 and 6:13,16. 

Tradition dating back to the 12th Century places two of the temptations on the mountain. The stone that is believed to be the center of the temptation to turn a stone into bread is located in a grotto within the monastery itself about half way up the mountain. The offer of all the kingdoms in the world for worshiping the devil is believed to have happened at the summit.

Within the monastery, there is according to tradition,  a small cave chapel where Jesus is said to have slept and meditated during this time. There is also a small slab of stone that it is believed to be the stone where Jesus sat. 

The Mountain of Temptation is another one of the Holy Sites in Israel. It is a beautiful mountain with outstanding views of the valleys below. Definitely it is well worth taking some time and visiting these traditional sites. If you plan to visit the monastery, it is necessary to wear modest clothing. Tours are available six days a week.  You will find quality hotels and restaurants in the city of Jericho. 

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  This post was originally published on  March 30, 2017  at:   

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