By Dr. Randall Smith
Courtesy of Christian Travel Study Programs, Ltd.
After Joshua conquered the Land of Israel, the Ark of the Covenant was placed in the village of Shiloh. Located in the area settled by the tribes of Benjamin and Ephraim, Shiloh became known as the “place of the Lord?s Tabernacle.” It was to Shiloh that the Israelites brought their sacrifices. It was at Shiloh that the priest Eli promised that Hannah would bear a son. That son, Samuel, became a prophet who dedicated himself to the Lord and served the Tabernacle in Shiloh.
Shiloh was also the site of a wonderfully carefree holiday, Tu B?Av. At that time maidens would “catch” a future spouse while dancing in the vineyards. (Judges 21:19).
But the village began to wane when the Ark of the Covenant was taken out of the Tabernacle and lost to the Philistines in the battle of Eben Ezer. Although occupation continued in Shiloh, the city?s glory was lost and would never return.
Archaeological excavations carried in the area of Shiloh have exposed the city gates, dwellings, and site that fit the Biblical description of the altar?s location. On display in the archeological park are many of the artifacts uncovered during excavations. The park also includes an excellent audio-visual program that presents Shiloh?s exciting Biblical history.
© Christian Travel Study Programs, Ltd.