The City of Jericho: 8 Fascinating Facts from the Bible

The city of Jericho is one of the most ancient and intriguing cities mentioned in the Bible, known for its rich history and the significant role it plays in biblical narratives. Here are eight fascinating facts from the Bible about Jericho: Visit: https://scripturalthinking.com or subscribe my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@scripturalthinking Oldest City in the World: Archaeological evidence suggests that Jericho is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with settlements dating back to 9000 BC. The Battle of Jericho: The most famous biblical story associated with Jericho is the Battle of Jericho, described in the Book of Joshua (Joshua 6:1-27). According to the narrative, the walls of Jericho fell after the Israelites circled the city for seven days, blowing trumpets and carrying the Ark of the Covenant. The Rahab Story: Rahab, a resident of Jericho, is a key figure in the conquest of the city. She hid two Israelite spies sent by Joshua and, in return, her family was spared when Jericho was captured (Joshua 2:1-21). Curse on Rebuilders: After its destruction, Joshua pronounced a curse on anyone who would rebuild Jericho: "Cursed before the LORD is the man who undertakes to rebuild this city, Jericho: At the cost of his firstborn son will he lay its foundations; at the cost of his youngest will he set up its gates" (Joshua 6:26). This curse was fulfilled in the time of Ahab when Hiel of Bethel rebuilt Jericho (1 Kings 16:34). City of Palms: Jericho is referred to as the "City of Palms" in Deuteronomy 34:3 and 2 Chronicles 28:15, highlighting its lush, fertile surroundings in an otherwise desert region. Elisha's Miracle: The prophet Elisha performed a miracle at Jericho, purifying its water supply. The men of the city complained about the water being bad and the land unproductive, to which Elisha responded by throwing salt into the water, thus making it pure (2 Kings 2:19-22). Herod's Winter Palace: Although not mentioned directly in the Bible, Jericho was the site of one of King Herod's winter palaces during the Second Temple period. This signifies the city's importance and affluence in ancient times. Zacchaeus the Tax Collector: In the New Testament, Jericho is mentioned as the place where Zacchaeus, a tax collector, climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus as he was passing through the city (Luke 19:1-10). This event led to Zacchaeus hosting Jesus in his home and is significant for the theme of redemption.