Tomb of Benei Hezir facts for kids
The Tomb of Benei Hezir (Hebrew: קבר בני חזיר) is a very old cave tomb found in eastern Jerusalem. It was built a long, long time ago, during the Second Temple period. This means it's from the time when the Second Temple stood in Jerusalem, which was between about 516 BC and 70 AD.
You can find this special tomb in the Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery, which is a famous burial ground. It sits in a place called the Kidron Valley, a valley that runs along the eastern side of Jerusalem.
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What is the Tomb of Benei Hezir?
The Tomb of Benei Hezir is a unique ancient tomb carved right into the rock. It's known for its special design, which mixes different styles of architecture. It's one of the most famous and well-preserved tombs from the Second Temple period in Jerusalem.
Who were the Benei Hezir?
The name "Benei Hezir" means "Sons of Hezir." Hezir was the name of a priestly family mentioned in the Bible. This family was part of the group of priests who served in the Temple in Jerusalem. So, this tomb likely belonged to an important family of priests from that ancient time.
Where is the Tomb Located?
The tomb is located in the Kidron Valley, also known as the Valley of Jehoshaphat. This valley is famous for its many ancient tombs and burial sites. It's a very historic area, just outside the old city walls of Jerusalem. The Mount of Olives rises above the valley, and the tomb is part of the large Jewish cemetery there.
The Kidron Valley's History
The Kidron Valley has been a burial place for thousands of years. Many important people from Jerusalem's past were buried here. It's a place full of history and ancient stories, making the Tomb of Benei Hezir part of a much larger historical landscape.
Design and Architecture
The Tomb of Benei Hezir is known for its impressive design. It has a grand entrance carved into the rock, with columns and a porch-like area called a loggia. This style shows influences from ancient Greek architecture, mixed with local traditions.
The Loggia and Columns
The front of the tomb features a beautiful loggia, which is like an open gallery or porch. It has two large columns that support a roof-like structure. These columns are carved directly out of the rock face. Even after thousands of years, parts of this ancient design are still visible today.
Inside the Tomb
Like many tombs from this period, the inside of the Tomb of Benei Hezir would have contained burial chambers. These chambers had shelves or niches where bodies were placed. While the tomb's exterior is well-preserved, the interior has been affected by time and later uses.
Why is this Tomb Important?
The Tomb of Benei Hezir is very important for several reasons:
- Historical Insight: It gives us clues about how people lived and were buried during the Second Temple period.
- Architectural Style: Its unique design helps us understand the art and building styles of that time.
- Connection to Priests: It connects us to the priestly families who played a big role in ancient Jerusalem.
- Archaeological Site: It's a valuable archaeological site that helps experts learn more about the past.
Images for kids
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1870 photo by Felix Bonfils showing the Tomb of Benei Hezir to the left of the Tomb of Zechariah.
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Detail of the surviving (southern) half of the loggia
