Bethsaida, meaning Fisherman's House, is a village on the north side of the Sea of Galilee, the original residence and perhaps the birthplace of three of Jesus' disciples - Andrew, Peter and Philip (John 1:44; 12:21).
Some of Jesus' mighty works took place here (Matthew 11:21, Luke 10:13) including Jesus healing a blind man by spitting on his eyes and laying His hands on him (Mark 8:22:26). Do check out my Israel Travel Itinerary for more tips and inspirations.
Aaahh!! Another beautiful view of Bethsaida. Israel is so breathtakingly beautiful.
From Bethsaida, you can get a view of Capernaum, where we just had a photo tour yesterday and Tabgha. During the Six-Day War, this site at Bethsaida was used by the Syrian Army as a post.
Bethsaida Ruins
If you'll notice this place is full of ruins just like that in Capernaum. It was never built again. Why? The clue is in the above photo.
Okay, here's the answer. Jesus actually places judgment in this place, alongside Capernaum and Corazin, because of the many miracles that had been done in this place yet the people still remain in unbelief. (Luke 10:13).
Our tour guide showed us two types of houses built in this area. One is the winegrowers house and the other one is a fisherman's house. It was a tremendous blessing that our tour guide was an archeologist so he taught us how to distinguish the difference.
Where's The Sea?
Did you ever wonder where's the body of water if a fisherman's house is built here? Actually, when the Israelites came back to their land in the '40s this whole area is a swamp full of mosquitoes carrying malaria. They've reclaimed the land by planting eucalyptus trees from Australia to dry up the swamp. That's why you won't find anybody of water near the area. So now you know. ;)
Reenactment
If you happen to read the Bible, did you ever wonder how Jesus was able to touch and heal all the sick laying on the ground? Imagine Him (Jesus Christ) walking through the busy street on the way to the market and the sick people were laying on each side of the street. Okay, I'll help you with this illustration below.
By now, I guess you've already got a picture of how small the street is. When Jesus came in every sick people was laying or sitting on the side of the road but as Jesus passed by the people on His back whom He passed by were rejoicing for the miracle that they've received. That's amazing!
Time to go to our next and final site, Church of St. Peter's Primacy.