Biblical site where Jesus healed blind man opened to the public for the first time in 2,000 years

A site predating Jesus himself, the Pool of Siloam is open to the public for the first time in 2,000 years. Around 2,700 years ago, this biblically significant site formed part of Jerusalem’s water system. The pool was used as a reservoir for the Gihon Spring, diverted via underground tunnels. For such an ancient site, they had quite an intricate water system in place.

Located in the southern part of the City of David archaeological site in Jerusalem, Israel, the Pool of Siloam is allegedly where Jesus healed a ma’s blindness. The story can be found in John:9 in the Bible. It talks about how Jesus covered a man’s eyes in mud, which he then washed off in the pool. He sat up and for the first time in his life, opened his eyes.

As a result, the Pool of Siloam is of huge importance to Christian and Jewish people alike

Expected to open entirely or at least partially in the next few years, the site is under excavation. Visitors will be able to see the excavation process by archaeologists as it happens. A massive attraction for locals and tourists alike and a first of its kind. People have already been granted access to view the site, but further work will need to be done before the pool is back t its former glory.

Read: Researchers Found More Evidence That Key Part Of The Bible Really Did Happen

“The Pool of Siloam in the City of David National Park in Jerusalem is a site of historic, national and international significance. After many years of anticipation, we will soon merit being able to uncover this important site. Making it accessible to the millions of visitors visiting Jerusalem each year.” Said Jerusalem’s mayor Moshe Lion of the opening.

The Israel Antiquities Authority announced the opening of the site at the end of 2022

News of the Pool of Siloam being made open to the public was announced by the Israel Antiquities Authority late in 2022. Better known as The Israel National Parks Authority and the City of David Foundation. “One of most significant sites affirming Jerusalem’s biblical heritage, not simply as a matter of faith, but as a matter of fact. With significance to billions around the world, will be made fully accessible for the first time in 2,000 years.” Said Ze’ev Orenstein, director of international affairs for the City of David Foundation in Jerusalem.

“Despite ongoing efforts at the United Nations and Palestinian leadership to erase Jerusalem’s heritage, in a few years’ time, the millions of people visiting the City of David annually will literally be able to walk in the footsteps of the Bible, connecting with the roots of their heritage and identity,” Orenstein noted. 

American Pastor John Hagee was very excited about the reveal

“The Pool of Siloam’s excavation is highly significant to Christians around the world. It was at this site that Jesus healed the blind man (John:9). And it is at this site that, 2,000 years ago, Jewish pilgrims cleansed themselves prior to entering the Second Temple.” He said on the news of the site being made open to the public.

“When I think of this news, I think of another phrase from the Hebrew Bible. ‘My ears have heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you,’” the Rev. Johnnie Moore, president of the Congress of Christian Leaders said. “This news means that one of the most important archaeological discoveries in history can soon be seen by visitors from all over the world. It will affirm all they believe. Having faith is part of worshipping God, but faith alone isn’t required to believe. There are historic facts attesting to the truth of Scripture.”

Moore, who is on the advisory board of the Combat Antisemitism Movement, added. “In the Pool of Siloam, we find evidence of history preserved for us, revealed at just the right time. This is a truly historic event. Theologically, it affirms Scripture, geographically it affirms history and politically it affirms Israel’s unquestionable and unrivaled link to Jerusalem. Some discoveries are theoretical. This one is undeniable. It is proof of the story of the Bible and of its people, Israel.”