The Second Temple

The temple of Jesus’ day was the one rebuilt by Herod the Great. Its size, grandeur, and magnificence made it one of the most remarkable architectural projects of the day.

This is same temple in which the 40-day-old Jesus was presented. The same temple in which the 12-year-old Jesus listened to the teachers, answered their questions, and taught them. The same temple in which the adult Jesus taught, healed, and cleaned house. On one such occasion, one of Jesus’ disciples said to Him:

“Look, Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” [Mark 13:1]

In response, Jesus said to him:

“Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” [Mark 13:2]

Just as Jesus predicted, Herod’s temple was destroyed. It happened when the Romans conquered Jerusalem in 70 AD.

Below is a virtual reconstruction of Herod’s Temple. Enjoy!

HT: Larry Peters