Today was an absolutely magnificent day! We woke up bright and early and set out for the Dome of the Rock. This was my first time to the Dome, and it was truly wonderful. I absolutely loved it.
The Dome of the Rock is the second holiest site in Islam (second to the Ka'aba in Mecca). It is called the Dome of the Rock because some people believe it was built over the rock where Abraham attempted to sacrifice his son, Issac. Some Muslims also believe that it is the location where Muhammad ascended into heaven for his "Night Journey."
I was in shock and awe at the beauty of the Dome. It is HUGE and such a stunning sight to see.
Beautiful bright colors, taller than 10 giraffes, and a true treasure!
Loved it.
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After seeing the Dome of the Rock, we walked to the Western Wall.
This was a very special, spiritual experience for me. It was extremely humbling to see such devoted and sincere love from the people coming to pray at the Wall.
The Western Wall (or Wailing Wall) was part of Herod's extension on the outer retaining wall from his Temple. Since the precise location of the temple's Holy of Holies is unknown, most Jews will not go on the Temple Mount (Dome of the Rock), fearing that they will possibly violate the sacred space. Thus, the Western Wall is the closest place that Jews can safely go to where the temple formerly stood.
Such a beautiful day in Jerusalem.
Heyyy! Mark told me I could stalk out your blog a bit! I am LOVIN' the pics and commentary! Thanks for posting in such an artistic way...it makes for a fun experience! Glad you are having such a marvelous experience...different terrain from Winthrop, huh?!! haha One of our VERY favorite places on earth! :-) Enjoy!
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