Tel Hazor was another site, like Megiddo, I had no idea existed or how it fits into the Bible. So, I had to do a little research. With the help of our tour guide, Rami, and a couple of external sources, I was surprised about its significance.
The Canaanite city of Hazor was occupied over 4000 years ago and had a population of nearly 20,000 at its peak. There is clear evidence of the presence of the Canaanites including Pagan temples, and the King's palace. In the Bible, Joshua describes Hazor:
https://my.bible.com/bible/59/JOS.11.10-11
The picture below, although not easy to see with the photograph, is clear evidence that this city was completely destroyed by FIRE around the 13th century BC. The experts have supported the presence of extreme fire and destruction within these walls. I love how the physical evidence and Biblical records fit together.
After the destruction of Hazor at the hands of Joshua, the city was rebuilt on top of these ruins and fortified by King Solomon. Evidence of the gates is still found at this site. The extensive water system is also still present. This town located on the northern end of the Kingdom would stand as an unsuccessful defense from Assyria. The town was completely destroyed again in 732 BC by the Assyrians as they overtook the Northern Kingdom.
I reread the account of Joshua and his ruthless battles against the enemies of God. In our culturally sensitive society, these battles of destruction and annihilation are NOT politically correct. I have to admit, I wince when I read about entire towns being wiped out and "there was nothing left that breathed."
There have been so many biblical scholars that have tried to reconcile the difference between the loving God found in Jesus Christ and the God of conquest and battle found in the Old Testament. I hate seeing anyone die that may be able to attain everlasting life through Jesus. The Canaanites completely rejected God, they worshipped false Gods and were dedicated to the destruction of God's people. The people of the Old Testament and leaders like Joshua were completely committed to saving God's people. Joshua defended the lives of those committed to God with ruthless abandon.
As I explored the archaeological site, the highly developed water system, the fortifications, and the presence of the Canaanites. I had a moment to be able to reflect on the Old Testament and the history of our faith. It struck me how powerfully resilient our faith has been since the beginning of time. God has been so faithful. His patience and enduring love existed from the first days of creation and now, as adopted children in the nation of Israel, we experience that same patience and love.
God wants all the nations of this world to come to him. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, as the ultimate sacrifice. He suffered the same kind of ruthless death as the people of Hazor and countless other people of the Old Testament. The difference, he did nothing to deserve it. He was blameless and sinless. As this crazy world continues to reject God, we are not called to destroy them. We are not called to vengeance and judgment. We are called to love people. We are called to love our enemies. We are called to share the love of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the Savior of the world. His death on the cross was final. Our job is to share that love and message.
I praise God for his love and his commitment to his people and to me personally. Thank you, Lord, for your love, patience, and enduring strength. Thank you for suffering a ruthless death for me and so that others would not have to suffer the same death.
I really can't remember what this picture represents. HAHA! I just thought it was interesting!
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