Temple Mount

I recently was able to go to the Temple Mount with some friends we have met here in Israel.  It is very fascinating and incredible to be up there and realize that this is the same place (recorded in history and in the Bible) that both temples were built and where the Israelites worshiped G-d.  There are only two times a day tourists and/or Jews may visit this site and only for a short amount of time.  Although any Arab or Muslim can have 24-7 acsess,  this seems strange to me, however these are the rules.

You must go through a series of security checks and the rules of what you can not bring are strongly enforced.  As you ascend, you are looking down on the Wailing Wall which is a cool feeling.  On top, people walk around and explore.  The view is incredible. There is much excavating going on all around so marble columns and ruins are everywhere.  There is also the mosque, courtyard and many other buildings. There are olive orchards growing however I was told that during the time of the original Temple no trees or plants grew there. It was only a place for worship and studying the Torah.  

Some Jewish Rabbi's teach that this is also the exact spot of the Garden of Eden and Mount Moriah on which Abraham took Isaac to be sacrificed. This would explain why this place is so special to them. We even were able to see some Jews walking around the Temple Mount without their shoes on. They feel it is holy ground and won't wear their shoes on top. I am in awe at how much reverence and respect they have in what they believe. It was a great day and although we were rushed off at the end of our hour.....I was glad I went!