What is the Inn of the Good Samaritan, and what entity administers it?

The Inn of the Good Samaritan is a designated national park, a museum, an ancient archaeological site, and a former inn. It is currently administered by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.

Where is the Inn of the Good Samaritan located, and what is its elevation?

The Inn of the Good Samaritan is situated near Ma'ale Adumim in the West Bank, Palestine. It is located halfway between Jerusalem and Jericho, at an elevation of 298 meters above sea level.

What is the origin of the name "Inn of the Good Samaritan"?

The inn is named after the Parable of the Good Samaritan found in the New Testament's Gospel of Luke. This parable tells the story of a traveler who was helped by a Samaritan.

From which locations were the artifacts in the museum collected?

The artifacts displayed in the museum were collected from churches and Jewish and Samaritan synagogues located in the West Bank, as well as from the ancient Gaza synagogue.

What historical significance does the road near the Inn of the Good Samaritan hold for travelers?

The nearby Jerusalem-Jericho road was historically significant for Jewish pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem's Temple and later for Christian pilgrims visiting Jesus' baptismal site on the Jordan River. The area was repeatedly fortified to protect travelers.

How are the ruins of a castle related to the Inn of the Good Samaritan?

There are two distinct, though related, archaeological sites in close proximity: the Inn itself and the ruins of a castle. This castle is believed to have been built by King Herod, and today the modern Jerusalem-Jericho highway separates the two sites.

What is the current function of the Inn of the Good Samaritan site?

Today, the Inn of the Good Samaritan functions as a mosaic museum and serves as a tourist attraction. It is particularly popular with international tourists, especially Christians.

What visitor services are available at the museum?

The museum offers a guided audio tour and is accessible to persons with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive experience for visitors.

What is the Christian tradition associated with the Inn of the Good Samaritan site?

Christian tradition suggests that the site may be the location where the Parable of the Good Samaritan took place, as mentioned in the Gospel of Luke. This association dates back to Saint Jerome in 385 CE.

How did the site come to be officially known as the "Good Samaritan Inn"?

The association with the parable led the British Mandate authorities to adopt the name "Good Samaritan Inn" for the site. Israel later developed the ruins as a tourist site under this official name after 1967.

What is the reasoning behind the identification of the site with the biblical parable?

The identification is plausible due to the limited number of inns between Jerusalem and Jericho. Additionally, medieval authors noted the blood-colored rocks in the area, interpreting them as symbolic proof of the place where the parable's traveler was attacked by robbers.

What was the ancient Israelite name for the area where the Inn of the Good Samaritan is located?

During the Iron Age, the Israelites referred to this area as Maale Adumim, which translates to "ascent of Adummim" or "Red Ascent," due to the distinctive red rocks found there.

What was the historical and tribal significance of Maale Adumim during the Israelite period?

Maale Adumim was part of the Kingdom of Judea and the territory of ancient Jewish tribes, specifically marking the border between the Tribe of Judah and the Tribe of Benjamin. It was situated along the important Israelite road connecting Jerusalem and Jericho.

What historical periods are represented by the archaeological findings at the site?

The archaeological findings at the site span several historical periods, including the Israelite, Late Roman, Byzantine, Crusader, Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods.

What is known about the Late Roman and Byzantine presence at the site?

Eusebius mentioned a Late Roman fort called Maledomni, which was garrisoned by a Roman auxiliary unit, Cohors I Salutaris, around 400 CE, tasked with protecting travelers. Under its protection, a caravanserai was established. Later, in the 6th century, a square-shaped inn with a church was built.

What is the significance of Saint Jerome's association with the site?

In 385 CE, Saint Jerome, while traveling with his benefactress Paula, recalled the parable of the Good Samaritan at this site, suggesting the existence of a church and road station. He also proposed that the name Adummim, meaning "red" or "blood," derived from the blood shed by robbers there.

What structures existed at the site during the Early Byzantine period?

During the Early Byzantine period (4th-5th century), there appears to have been a fortress. This was later replaced in the 6th century by a square-shaped inn built around a central courtyard, which included a church for worship and a cistern for water.

What was the Crusader period's contribution to the site's history?

During the Crusader period, the Templar castle of Maldoim, also known by names like Castrum Dumi or Rouge Cisterne, was built. Its ruins are located on the hilltop overlooking the site and preserve the ancient Hebrew name Maale Adumim. The castle's presence contributed to the establishment of an inn.

What happened to the castle and the inn during the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods?

After the Battle of Hattin in 1187, the castle, which had been abandoned by the Knights Templar, was occupied by Saladin's troops. Later medieval authors began distinguishing between the castle and the khan (inn).

How was the inn described by Felix Fabri in the late 15th century?

Felix Fabri, after his pilgrimage in 1483-1484, described the inn as a ruin consisting of only four weathered walls standing around a small well. He noted it was a rare and important landmark on the steep, arid ascent.

What observations were made about the site during the Ottoman period?

In 1767, Giovanni Mariti noted the ruin on the hill called "Castle of the Samaritan." Later, in 1873, the Palestine Exploration Fund reported on the ruins of the inn, describing it as a "Saracen hostel" with standing piers and walls, underground cisterns, and a nearby fortress on the hilltop. They also noted the ruddy color of the rock, contributing to the name Tal'at ed Damm.

When was the khan rebuilt in its current form?

The khan was rebuilt in its present shape in the year 1903.

When was the Museum of Mosaics opened at the Inn of the Good Samaritan site?

The Museum of Mosaics was opened at the site in 2010.

Who initiated the creation of the Museum of Mosaics, and what was his role?

The museum was initiated by Yitzhak Magen, who served as the Staff Officer for Archaeology at the Israeli Civil Administration for the Judea and Samaria Area.

What discovery by Yitzhak Magen led to the museum's creation?

Magen discovered that the site had been rebuilt multiple times throughout history, consistently functioning as an inn for travelers. He also noted the presence of a Byzantine church with a mosaic floor, which had largely disappeared. This led to the restoration of the church's mosaic floor and the subsequent decision to create a mosaic museum.

What kind of Jewish mosaic floors are featured in the museum?

The museum features ancient Jewish mosaic floors that display Jewish religious iconography. These include depictions of the temple menorah, lulav, and shofar, as well as figures like King David.

Where were the Jewish mosaic floors excavated from?

These mosaic floors were excavated from various locations across what is now known as Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) and Gaza.

How is the restored mosaic floor of the 6th-century church utilized today?

The restored mosaic floor of the 6th-century church has been equipped with benches along the ruined walls. It is now used for holding mass services for visiting Christian groups.

What does the source material indicate about the road that followed the Ascent of Adummim?

The source material notes that the ancient road from Jericho to Jerusalem followed the Ascent of Adummim along the southern side of Wadi Qelt, passing the khan, and continuing to the Mount of Olives ridge.

What is the meaning of the name "Maale Adumim" or "Ascent of Adummim"?

Maale Adumim translates to "ascent of Adummim" or "Red Ascent." This name was given by the Israelites due to the red color of the rocks in the area.

What was the function of the Cohors I Salutaris at Maledomni?

The Cohors I Salutaris, a Roman (Byzantine) auxiliary unit, was commissioned with protecting travelers in the area around the fort of Maledomni.

What is the significance of the Crusader-era names for the castle, such as Maldoim or Rouge Cisterne?

Names like Maldoim, Maledoim, Castrum Dumi, Turris Rubea, Rouge Cisterne, and variations thereof, are Latin and Medieval French terms that generally translate to "Red Tower" or "Red Cistern," referencing the color of the local rocks.

What is the significance of the "blood-colored rocks" mentioned in relation to the site?

The "blood-colored rocks" refer to the ruddy color of the local stone, which led to the name Tal'at ed Damm, meaning "Ascent of Blood." This feature was noted by medieval authors and pilgrims as a symbolic indicator of the place where travelers were historically attacked by robbers, linking it to the parable.

What did the Palestine Exploration Fund report about the ruins in 1873?

In 1873, the Palestine Exploration Fund reported on the ruins of the inn, calling it Khan Hathrurah. They described it as a Saracen hostel with standing piers and walls, underground cisterns, and a nearby fortress on the hilltop that commanded the road. They also noted the ruddy color of the rock, contributing to the name Tal'at ed Damm.

What specific Jewish symbols are depicted in the mosaics displayed in the museum?

The mosaics on display feature classic Jewish symbols such as the menorah, shofar, lulav, and incense pan. They also include depictions of King David and inscriptions in Hebrew and Greek.

What is the relationship between the Samaritans and the Jews, as mentioned in the text?

The text describes the Samaritans as a local indigenous ethnoreligious group that is closely related to the Jews.

What is the purpose of the benches and the restored mosaic floor in the 6th-century church?

The benches placed along the ruined walls and the restored mosaic floor of the 6th-century church are intended to accommodate visiting Christian groups who use the space for holding mass services.

What does the "Authority control" section indicate about the Inn of the Good Samaritan?

The "Authority control" section indicates that the Inn of the Good Samaritan is cataloged in international databases like VIAF and the Israeli national library authority (NLI), signifying its recognized historical and cultural importance.

What is the significance of the map frame element in the infobox?

The map frame element in the infobox provides a visual representation of the Inn of the Good Samaritan's geographical location, allowing users to see its position on a map.

What does the term "vcard" in the infobox suggest about the information presented?

The term "vcard" in the infobox suggests that the information is structured in a microformat for contact information, indicating details like the organization's name, location, and contact details are presented in a standardized way.

What does the presence of multiple images with captions suggest about the article's content?

The inclusion of multiple images with captions indicates that the article aims to visually illustrate various aspects of the Inn of the Good Samaritan, such as its entrance, specific artifacts like mosaics, and its current state or construction phases.

What is the role of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority in relation to the site?

The Israel Nature and Parks Authority is responsible for administering the Inn of the Good Samaritan site, which includes its designation as a national park and its operation as a museum and archaeological site.

What does the hatnote at the beginning of the article clarify?

The hatnote clarifies that the article is specifically about the historical inn, now a museum, and explicitly states it has never been a monastery. It also directs readers to a disambiguation page for other uses of "Khan al-Ahmar."

What does the term "ethnoreligious group" imply about the Samaritans?

The term "ethnoreligious group" implies that the Samaritans share both a common ethnic identity and a distinct religious practice, distinguishing them as a unique community.

What is the purpose of the "See also" section?

The "See also" section provides links to related topics or articles that might be of interest to the reader, such as the ancient road from Jericho to Jerusalem and the Ascent of Adummim.

What kind of information is found in the "Bibliography" section?

The "Bibliography" section lists scholarly works and publications that were used as sources for the article, providing references for further research on the Inn of the Good Samaritan and related historical topics.

What does the "External links" section offer to the reader?

The "External links" section provides direct links to relevant online resources, including the official website of the museum, a downloadable pamphlet, and other informational pages about the site, allowing readers to explore the topic further.

What is the significance of the reference to "Khan al-Ahmar" in the hatnote?

The reference to "Khan al-Ahmar" in the hatnote indicates that this name is also associated with the site or similar locations, and a disambiguation page exists to help users find the specific information they are looking for, distinguishing it from other places named Khan al-Ahmar.

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The Inn of the Good Samaritan

Location and Significance

The Inn of the Good Samaritan is a multifaceted site comprising a national park, a museum, and an ancient archaeological area. Situated near Ma'ale Adumim in the West Bank, Palestine, it lies strategically halfway between Jerusalem and Jericho at an elevation of 298 meters above sea level. Administered by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, it serves as a crucial historical and cultural landmark.

Naming and Purpose

Named in reference to the New Testament's Parable of the Good Samaritan, the site has historically functioned as a traveler's inn. Its strategic location on the ancient Jerusalem-Jericho road made it a vital stop for pilgrims and travelers throughout various historical periods, offering respite and shelter.

A Repository of History

Today, the Inn houses a museum dedicated to ancient mosaics and other archaeological findings. These artifacts primarily date from the 4th to 7th centuries CE and have been collected from various ecclesiastical and religious sites across the West Bank and Gaza, offering a glimpse into the region's rich past.

Biblical Tradition

The Parable's Echo

The site's name is intrinsically linked to the Parable of the Good Samaritan, recounted in the Gospel of Luke. Early Christian tradition, notably documented by Saint Jerome in 385 CE, associated this location with the parable's narrative. The name "Adummim," derived from the Hebrew for "red ascent," was interpreted by medieval authors to signify the blood shed by travelers attacked by robbers, further cementing the site's connection to the parable.

A Plausible Setting

The historical scarcity of inns along the challenging route between Jerusalem and Jericho lends credence to the Inn of the Good Samaritan being a plausible setting for the parable. The association, while perhaps more symbolic than historically definitive, has made the site a significant destination for Christian pilgrims seeking to connect with biblical narratives.

Layers of History

Iron Age Origins

Known in the Iron Age as Maale Adumim, meaning "Red Ascent," this area was part of the Kingdom of Judea. Its name derived from the distinctive red rocks, and it marked a significant border point between the territories of the ancient tribes of Judah and Benjamin, situated along the crucial road connecting Jerusalem and Jericho.

Roman and Byzantine Fortifications

By the Late Roman period, the site featured a fort known as Maledomni, later garrisoned by Cohors I Salutaris. This military presence provided security for travelers, leading to the establishment of a caravanserai. During the Early Byzantine period (4th-6th centuries), a more substantial inn was built around a central courtyard, complete with a large church for Christian pilgrims and essential cisterns for water.

Crusader and Medieval Periods

During the Crusader era, the hilltop overlooking the site was fortified as the Templar castle of Maldoim (also known as Turris Rubea or Rouge Cisterne). While the castle ruins remain distinct, separated by the modern highway, its presence likely influenced the continued use and protection of the inn below. Medieval authors began to distinguish between the castle and the khan (inn).

Ottoman Era and Reconstruction

By the Ottoman period, the inn had fallen into ruin, described by Felix Fabri in the late 15th century as dangerously weathered walls around a well. The structure was substantially rebuilt in its present form in 1903, preserving its function as a landmark and resting place along the historic route.

The Museum of Mosaics

Artistic and Religious Heritage

Opened in 2010, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of ancient mosaic floors, primarily from the 4th to 7th centuries CE. These intricate artworks were recovered from churches, synagogues, and other sites across the West Bank and Gaza, illustrating the region's diverse cultural and religious tapestry during the Byzantine period.

Jewish Iconography

A significant portion of the collection features mosaics with Jewish religious symbols. These include depictions of the Temple Menorah, the Lulav, the Shofar, and the Star of David, alongside representations of figures such as King David. These artifacts provide invaluable insights into the religious practices and artistic expressions of ancient Jewish communities.

Samaritan Heritage

The museum also dedicates a wing to the history and customs of the Samaritans, an indigenous ethno-religious group closely related to the Jews. This section displays mosaics from Samaritan synagogues, such as the one from Khirbet Samara, highlighting their unique cultural contributions and historical presence in the region.

Restored Worship Space

The meticulously restored mosaic floor of the 6th-century Byzantine church at the site now serves as a functional space. Equipped with benches along the ancient walls, it is made available for Christian groups to hold services, continuing the site's legacy as a place of spiritual significance.

Visiting the Inn

A Tourist Destination

The Inn of the Good Samaritan is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe, particularly those interested in biblical history and archaeology. Its accessibility and the engaging nature of its exhibits make it a compelling stop for understanding the region's layered past.

Visitor Experience

The museum offers a comprehensive guided audio tour, enhancing the visitor's understanding and appreciation of the historical context and the significance of the artifacts on display. The site is also designed to be accessible to individuals with disabilities, ensuring a welcoming experience for all.

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References

The Good Samaritan Inn Mosaic Museum - Israel Nature and Parks Authority

A full list of references for this article are available at the Inn of the Good Samaritan Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be entirely comprehensive, accurate, or up-to-date. Historical and religious interpretations can vary.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical, archaeological, or religious consultation. Always consult primary sources and expert analyses for definitive understanding.

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Pilgrim's Path

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The Inn of the Good Samaritan 🏛️

📍 Location and Significance

📖 Naming and Purpose

🏺 A Repository of History

Biblical Tradition ✝️

📜 The Parable's Echo

🗺️ A Plausible Setting

Layers of History ⏳

🔥 Iron Age Origins

🛡️ Roman and Byzantine Fortifications

⚔️ Crusader and Medieval Periods

🕌 Ottoman Era and Reconstruction

The Museum of Mosaics 🖼️

✨ Artistic and Religious Heritage

✡️ Jewish Iconography

🤝 Samaritan Heritage

⛪ Restored Worship Space

Visiting the Inn ℹ️

🚶 A Tourist Destination

🎧 Visitor Experience

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Inn of the Good Samaritan

Location and Significance

Naming and Purpose

A Repository of History

Biblical Tradition

The Parable's Echo

A Plausible Setting

Layers of History

Iron Age Origins

Roman and Byzantine Fortifications

Crusader and Medieval Periods

Ottoman Era and Reconstruction

The Museum of Mosaics

Artistic and Religious Heritage

Jewish Iconography

Samaritan Heritage

Restored Worship Space

Visiting the Inn

A Tourist Destination

Visitor Experience

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice