Welcome to the captivating world of the Bible Lands Museum in Jerusalem, a treasure trove of archaeological wonders that offers a remarkable journey through the cultures of the peoples mentioned in the Bible. From ancient Egyptians and Canaanites to the Philistines, Hittites, and beyond, this museum delves deep into the history that has shaped our understanding of the past. Join us as we uncover the rich tapestry of civilizations that have left their mark on this extraordinary land.
At the heart of the Bible Lands Museum’s mission is the dedication to placing these diverse peoples in their historical contexts. The museum’s location on Museum Row in Givat Ram, nestled between the Israel Museum, the National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel, and the Bloomfield Science Museum, speaks to its significance as a hub of knowledge and discovery.
Tracing the Museum’s History
Founded by Elie Borowski in 1992, the museum has its roots in a personal collection that spans eons. Borowski’s connection with the museum began in 1981 when he met Batya Weiss during a visit to Jerusalem. Encouraged by Weiss to bring his remarkable collection of Ancient Near Eastern Art to Israel, Borowski embarked on a journey to establish what would become the Bible Lands Museum.
The collection found a new home in Jerusalem, making it a testament to dedication and passion. Borowski’s story took an even more profound turn when he and Batya eventually married, solidifying their shared commitment to preserving history.
Extraordinary Exhibits
As you step into the museum’s main gallery, you’re greeted by a myriad of artifacts that offer a tangible connection to the past. Ancient documents, idols, coins, statues, weapons, pottery, and seals from across the ancient Near East come together to create an awe-inspiring tableau. These artifacts are more than just objects; they’re windows into the lives, beliefs, and innovations of the people who came before us.
Detailed articles on the gallery walls provide insights into a wide range of topics, from the origins of the alphabet to practices such as embalming and Abraham’s legendary journey. The museum also boasts meticulously crafted scale models of ancient sites, including Jerusalem, the Ziggurat at Ur, and the iconic pyramids at Giza.
Amidst the focus on the history of ancient civilizations, the museum seamlessly weaves in relevant biblical verses, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of these cultures. For instance, above a collection of ancient Anatolian jugs, you’ll find the verse “Behold, Rebecca came forth with her pitcher on her shoulder; and she went down unto the fountain and drew water” (Genesis 24:45).
Your Narrative Unveiled: A Personal Experience
When you step into the Jerusalem Biblical Lands Museum, you’re not just entering a museum; you’re embarking on a journey through time that is intimately connected to your own story. This unparalleled collection of antiquities from the Ancient Near East, often referred to as the Biblical Lands, unveils the very essence of where we came from and how we arrived here. Your history, humanity’s history, began right here.
A visit to the museum is an immersive experience that transports you to the vibrant cultures, kingdoms, and empires that once thrived in this very space. From the grandeur of Egypt and the mysteries of Sumer to the might of Babylon and the wisdom of Assyria, the gallery halls resonate with the echoes of these remarkable civilizations. Canaan, Persia, Greece, and Rome have also etched their legacies here, contributing to the foundations of science, technology, language, trade, faith, and culture that continue to shape our world.
As you journey through time within the museum’s walls, you’ll find yourself asking questions that fuel your curiosity. Who invented the script that revolutionized communication? What did an envelope look like in the ancient world, and what stories did it carry? Have you ever wondered what beverages ancient Egyptians enjoyed? The museum’s permanent exhibitions guide you through these inquiries, offering a tasting tour of the past that’s both fascinating and enlightening.
Beyond the Bible Lands Museum
The Bible Lands Museum is more than a repository of artifacts; it’s a living testament to the intertwined stories of humanity and its history. Its additional exhibitions, such as “Jerusalem that was in Babylon,” “Gods, Heroes, and Mortals in Ancient Greece,” and “Classic Pearls: The Fresco Room,” provide deeper insights into the cultural exchanges and influences that have shaped civilizations across time.
As you embark on your journey through the Bible Lands Museum in Jerusalem, prepare to be captivated by the stories of the past and inspired by the legacies that have shaped our world. This museum isn’t just a window into history; it’s a doorway to understanding the origins of our collective identity.
Visiting the Bible Lands Museum
Opening Hours:
Sunday-Thursday 9:30-17:30 Wednesdays 9:30-21:30
Fridays, Saturdays and holiday eves: 10:00-14:00
The museum is closed on holidays.
Museum admission prices:
- Adult – NIS 44
- Child up to 5 years old – free
- A child up to the age of 18 – NIS 22
- Student/new immigrant – NIS 22
- A soldier in compulsory service – free
- Senior Israeli citizen (on presentation of a certificate) – 22 NIS
- Senior citizen resident abroad (on presentation of a certificate) – 32 NIS
- Disabled – NIS 22
Guided tours of the permanent display and the changing exhibitions:
No additional charge to the entrance fee
- Sunday-Friday: 10:30 English | 11:00 Hebrew
- Wednesday: another tour at 17:30 English | 18:00 Hebrew
- Saturday: 11:30 Hebrew
