Temple Mount (Overview) (Jerusalem, Israel)
City:
Jerusalem
State, Province, Region, or District:
Jerusalem District
Country:
Israel
Overview
The Temple Mount is the place where the Biblical temples were built, starting from King Solomon almost 3,000 years ago (1 Kings 2:10). The temple was built in 3 phases (Solomon, Zerubbabel, and Herod) and was destroyed by the Romans. The temple was never rebuilt again by the Jews, and replaced by the Muslim shrines in the 8th century AD which stand there today over the ruins of the base of the Roman period temple.
Alternate Names
Haram, Haram Ash-Sharif, Haram esh-Sharif, Mount Moriah, the Noble Sanctuary, Temple Platform
Geography & Location
The Temple Mount is located within the walled city of Jerusalem on the eastern side of Old City.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Overview
Architecture
The architecture of the Temple Mount reflects a history of building and expansion, with major phases attributed to King Solomon, the Hasmoneans, and King Herod, whose expansion is the largest. Key features include a large raised platform, massive retaining walls (like the Western Wall), and monumental buildings such as the Royal Stoa, which was supported by a system of vaults now known as Solomon's Stables. The current structures, including the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque, were built by the Umayyad caliphate in the late 7th century AD.
Biblical & Historical References
The Temple Mount is also called Mount Moriah and was the place where Abraham was to sacrifice his son Isaac to God (Genesis 22:1-2).
Spiritual Lessons and Application
In the Old Testament, the temple was a focal place where God dwelt. In the New Testament, believers are now the temple in which God dwells.
Etymology
Site Names
Places of Interest
Location of Solomon's original Temple Mount Platform.