Bible Geography · Jordan Valley · c. 9000 BC – Present
Jericho
Description
Jericho lies in the Jordan Valley about 250 meters below sea level, near the western bank of the Jordan River. Archaeological evidence shows continuous habitation stretching back to 9000 BC, making it among humanity's earliest settlements. In the New Testament period it was a prosperous city near Herod's winter palace.
Significance
Jericho's miraculous fall taught Israel that military victory comes through obedience to God rather than human strategy. In the New Testament, Jesus passed through Jericho on His final journey to Jerusalem, healing Bartimaeus and transforming Zacchaeus, demonstrating God's grace to the outcast.
Key Events
Rahab's protection of the Israelite spies, the fall of Jericho's walls (c. 1406 BC), Joshua's curse on rebuilding the city, Elijah and Elisha's time in the city, Jesus healing blind Bartimaeus, and Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus.
Modern Context
Modern Jericho is a Palestinian city in the West Bank and a center of tourism and agriculture, famous for its citrus fruits and dates. The archaeological site of Tel es-Sultan marks ancient Jericho, and the nearby Monastery of the Temptation is a popular Christian pilgrimage site.