Located east of Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives receives its name from the olive groves which used to line the hillside, sustained by its fertile soil. Mentioned many times in the New Testament, it is an important site for Christians, particularly for its association with Jesus’ ascension. However, its significance can be traced further back, not only throughout the New Testament but also throughout Jewish history.
For Christians, the Mount of Olives is associated with events from the New Testament. In the Gospels of Mark and Matthew, it is described as the location from which Jesus entered Jerusalem, at the commencement of his final week on earth. This was to fulfil the prophesies of the Old Testament. It is also the mountaintop from which Jesus gave his Olivet Discourse, which focuses primarily on the signs that will be associated with his return.
PLACE TO PRAY
The Mount of Olives is also noteworthy due to its association with prayer. The Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed on the night before he was crucified, is located on the Western slopes of the mount. Scripture informs us that Jesus often went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray.
However, for Christians the Mount of Olives is most significant as it is believed to be the place from which Jesus ascended into heaven after his Resurrection, as described in Acts 1:9-12. Christian tradition holds that Jesus’ ascension indicates the entrance of his humanity into heaven, where he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and continues to intercede for all. Christ ascended with the promise that he would return, providing hope for believers.
DAY OF JUDGMENT
The Mount of Olives is also a place of hope for Jewish adherents, who believe that on the Day of Judgment, it is where the Messiah will appear and the resurrection of the dead will occur. This is mentioned in the Book of Zechariah, in chapter 24. For this reason, the slopes of the mountain have been regarded as the most sacred burial ground for more than 3000 years. At present, it is the largest and oldest Jewish cemetery, with over 120,000 graves.
Historically, the mountain was also of importance due to its proximity to the Jewish Temple. Even after the destruction of the Temple, the mount was used for the celebration of religious festivals. The Jewish people also believe that after the destruction of the Temple, the Shekinah, God’s divine presence, moved to the Mount of Olives for three-and-a-half years.
PANORAMIC VIEWS
Today, the area is governed by the State of Israel. Individuals who choose to climb the mount will be greeted with a panoramic view. On the Mount of Olives itself, there are more than six churches, which are pilgrimage sites for Christians. Additionally, it is a short drive from the Mount of Olives to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, located on the site where it is believed that Jesus’ Resurrection took place. Other notable landmarks nearby include the Western Wall and the Via Dolorosa Street.
The Mount of Olives is a tangible reminder of the historical presence of Judaism and Christianity.
Zinta Hartmann is a member of the Australian Catholics young writers community.
OLIVES – MORE THAN FRUIT
Olives were significant to the culture of the Hebrew people. The tree itself originated in the Holy Land and is symbolic of values such as stability and peace. Its fruit, specifically the outer, fleshy part, was pressed to produce the essential commodity of olive oil. Historically, the region surrounding the Mount of Olives was a notable exporter of olive oil, particularly to Egypt. This was integral for the region’s economy. Olive oil was used by both rich and poor for everyday purposes such as eating, lighting and medicine. It was also a spiritual symbol of rejuvenation and held significance for temple rituals such as the anointing of kings. This is reflected in the name which the Mount of Olives is also known by, ‘the Mount of Anointment’. Olives had, and continue to have, immense significance for the Hebrew people, representing their relationship with the land, their practices and beliefs.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS AND ACTIVITIES
Sacred places and blessed opportunities – questions and activities
These engaging, age-appropriate activities to explore themes such as pilgrimage, sacred places and connection to Country by focussing on the Mount of Olives.