Mount of Temptation facts for kids
The Mount of Temptation is a famous place in the Judean Desert. Many people believe it's the exact hill where Jesus was tested by Satan. The Bible tells us that Satan tried to make Jesus do bad things, but Jesus stayed strong. While we don't know the exact spot, this mountain is usually called Mount Quarantania. It's a limestone mountain that stands about 366 metres (1,200 feet) tall. You can find it about 11 kilometres (7 miles) northwest of the ancient town of Jericho.
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What is the Mount of Temptation?
The Mount of Temptation is a very important place for many people, especially Christians. It's known as the spot where, according to the Bible, Jesus spent 40 days and 40 nights without food. During this time, Satan came to him and tried to make him give up his mission. Satan offered Jesus power and riches, but Jesus refused each time. This story shows Jesus's strength and faith.
Where is this Mountain Located?
The mountain commonly known as the Mount of Temptation is called Mount Quarantania. It's found in the Judean Desert, which is a dry, rocky area. This desert is in the West Bank, a region near Israel. The mountain is close to the historic city of Jericho, which is one of the oldest cities in the world. From the top of Mount Quarantania, you can see amazing views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.
The Monastery on the Mountain
High up on the cliffs of Mount Quarantania, there is a very old and special building. It's called the Monastery of the Temptation. This monastery was built by Greek Orthodox monks. It's partly built into the side of the mountain, making it look like it's growing right out of the rock! Monks have lived and prayed here for hundreds of years. They believe this is the holy place where Jesus faced his temptations.
To reach the monastery, visitors can either hike up a steep path or take a cable car. The cable car, called the Jericho Cable Car, offers a fun and easy way to get up the mountain while enjoying the views. The monastery is a popular place for pilgrims and tourists who want to see this historic and spiritual site.
Ancient History of the Mountain
Besides its religious importance, Mount Quarantania also has a long history. In ancient times, there was a fortress on the mountain's summit. This fortress was built by the Seleucid Empire, which was a large kingdom many centuries ago. Later, during the Middle Ages, the Knights Templar also used this fortress. The Knights Templar were a famous group of Christian knights who protected pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Today, you can still see some of the old walls and ruins of these ancient buildings at the top of the mountain.
Images for kids
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The three temptations of Christ in a 12th-century mosaic in St Mark's, Venice
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Jebel Quruntul overlooking the Plain of Jericho, 1931
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Mt Quruntul, 1931
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The monastery in 1913
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The Jericho Cable Car (Sultan Téléphérique), 2019
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Mt Quruntul from the Jericho Plain, 2012. Part of 'Ushsh el-Ghurab is visible to the right.
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