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The Garden Tomb
When my Christian friends ask me which attractions they should visit in Israel, I always recommend the Garden Tomb. Some will reply, ‘The Garden Tomb? What’s that?’ Others will incorrectly say, ‘That’s where Jesus was buried, right?’ I always point out that while the Garden Tomb has not been confirmed as Christ’s tomb, it’s extremely beneficial nonetheless for Christians to visit.
The Bible records that Christ was crucified at a place called ‘The Skull’ (Golgotha) located outside the walls of Jerusalem, near a gate along a major thoroughfare. His body was laid to rest in a brand new tomb which was cut out of rock, located in a garden belonging to the wealthy Joseph of Arimathea. The tomb featured a weeping chamber, a burial chamber and was sealed with a stone.
The Garden Tomb, located just outside the Damascus Gate in Jerusalem, is consistent with the tomb described in the Bible. While the official policy of the Garden Tomb Association makes no claims as such, many visitors over the years have come to believe that it’s the actual site of the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Christ. Here are some reasons why:
The Garden Tomb is located:
- Outside the walls of Jerusalem
- Near a city gate
- On a busy thoroughfare
- In a garden
- At a place that resembles a skull
Furthermore, the Garden Tomb:
- Was carved out of rock (as opposed to being a cave)
- Was sealed with a stone
- Has a weeping chamber and burial chamber
- Was new when it was used - and was only used once
- Has been dated to the time of Christ
- Belonged to a rich man (as evidenced by the size and scope of the garden, which includes a winepress)
- Perhaps most importantly, the Garden Tomb was empty when it was discovered!
Whether or not the Garden Tomb is the actual site of Christ’s execution, burial and resurrection, it nonetheless faithfully depicts the tomb described in the Gospels. For visitors today, it’s a beautiful, peaceful garden where people can reflect on Christ’s resurrection and their hope of eternal life with Him.
(Published by Sight Magazine in March 2010)
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