Bethel, Israel
City:
Bethel
State, Province, Region, or District:
Country:
Israel
Overview
Bethel (originally called Luz in the Bible) is in the hill country of the Samaria region, about 10 miles (17 kilometers) north of Jerusalem. Bethel is frequently mentioned in Scripture and is the site of many significant events.
Bethel is first referred to as being near the place where Abram pitched his tent and built one of the first altars mentioned in the Bible on his way to Egypt and on his return (Genesis 12-13). Later, Bethel is mentioned as the location of Jacob's Ladder that Jacob named Bethel "House of God" (Genesis 28). Jacob moved to Bethel to live after he returned to the Holy Land. God spoke to him and changed his name from Jacob to Israel (Genesis 35).
Bethel was a place where the Tabernacle resided for some time during the period of the Judges (Judges 20:26-27). After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Jeroboam, the king of the northern kingdom, set up golden calves in Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:26-29).
Modern-day Bethel offers a mix of ancient archaeological ruins, historical shrines, and panoramic views of the region.
Alternate Names
Bethel; Beitin; Aven; Beitîn; Bethaun; Beth-aven; Bethuel; Bethul; Chesil; Elbethel; El-bethel; Luz
Geography & Location
Bethel (originally called Luz in the Bible) is in the hill country of the Samaria region, about 10 miles (17 km) north of Jerusalem.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Historical Timeline
Architecture
Biblical Bethel (modern Beitin/Beit El) is an archaeological treasure trove in the central highlands north of Jerusalem. Its architecture is defined by successive layers of history - from Canaanite fortifications and the Iron Age shrines of Jeroboam, to Byzantine churches and Crusader ruins.
Biblical & Historical References
Bethel is one of the most significant historical and spiritual sites in the Bible. Meaning "House of God" in Hebrew, it appears over 60 times in Scripture, serving as a sacred sanctuary, an alternate capital for idolatrous worship, and a frequent target for prophetic warnings.
Spiritual Lessons and Application
Bethel was a place of two different kinds of responses to God. It was a place where Abraham and Jacob had special encounters with God and worshiped Him, and where the Ark of the Covenant dwelt, representing the presence and glory of God. Unfortunately, it also represents a place of disobedience to God and the worship of false gods and idols.
Etymology
The name Bethel comes from the Hebrew words beyth (house) and El (God), translating to "House of God." In the Bible, it is an ancient city in the central highlands north of Jerusalem that the patriarch Jacob named after having a vision of angels ascending a ladder to heaven.
Planning a Visit
Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.
Places of Interest
The site where Abraham and Jacob pitched their tents and built altars.