Jerash was one of the cities of the Decapolis during the time of Christ. Today we visited the ruins of that city. It is an impressive site, and I think I have worked through the problem I was having in uploading photos from here. At least I have discovered one way it can be done.
Here is a small photo of the Roman soldiers of the 6th Legion demonstrating the formation used in protecting the banner of the Legion.
Posted in Bible Study, Jordan, New Testament
Within the past two weeks the Olympic torch was lighted at Olympia, Greece, amid political disruption. Important games were held by the Greeks at Olympia, Delphi, Nemea, and Isthmia. Isthmia is located just a few miles from ancient Corinth, near the modern Corinth Canal.
The Isthmian Games, conducted biennially in honor of Poseidon, were second in importance to the Olympics. Discoveries at Isthmia have included starting gates for the races. Professor Oscar Broneer, who excavated at Corinth, indicates that Greek athletics had become corrupt and degraded during Paul’s lifetime [like professional sports in too many places, perhaps?]. Broneer suggested that Paul was present during one of these athletic festivals (Biblical Archaeologist, Feb., 1962; Acts 18). Here is a photo from Isthmia.
Paul made many references to athletic contests, especially in the letter to the church at Corinth. There are references to the races, and to boxing in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. The victor’s crown at the Isthmian Games was made of wilted celery! This makes Paul’s reference to a “corruptible crown” come to life, doesn’t it (1 Corinthians 9:25)?
Note of Explanation. You may wonder how I could upload photos of Isthmia but not of those taken in the past few days. This post was already uploaded from home a couple of weeks back. Since I am still limited here I wanted to share this with you. And, the next tour is Steps of Paul and John.
Posted in Archaeology, New Testament, Travel
Tagged Greece, Isthmia, Isthmian Games, Olympics
We had a wonderful evening at the Dead Sea, and a good day with a visit to the Roman city of Jerash. We also saw the RACE show. This is the Roman Army and Chariot Experience. I will try to post some photos later.
The group will be leaving the hotel about 11:15 p.m. to go to the airport for the first stretch of the flight home. I am sure that everyone would appreciate your prayers for a safe return to family and friends.
Please excuse group members if they seem a little excited about what they have seen, learned, and experienced in the past two weeks.
Posted in Bible Study
Ferrell's Travel Blog 
You must be logged in to post a comment.