Dovid HaMelech

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Dovid HaMelech was the second king of Israel and the first of the Davidic dynasty. He passed away on Shevuas which fell out on Shabbos that year.

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Kever Dovid HaMelech

Dovid HaMelech is buried in Har Tzion, outside the walls of the Old City. While most people visit the Tzion, the actual kivarim of the Kings of the House of Dovid are located in a series of large underground chambers stretching into the surrounding area. There is a tradition that the actual chamber containing the kever of King Dovid himself lies below the open field in back of the Tzion. Some Kabbalists and rabbis preferred to pray in this location rather then the Tzion.

The Tzion

The Chambers

One of the openings to the underground chambers is located on right side of the Tzion. In recent years, this floor entrance was covered up with floor tiles. Even before this the inside steps were blocked with piles of rocks.

Painting of James Berkeley

James Berkeley was an American archaeologist living in Israel during the 1850's whose daughter was friendly with the wife of the Sheik responsible for the management of the Tomb. Together with his daughter, Berkely was granted permission to enter the lower concealed chambers in the secrecy of the night. They entered at least the initial chambers and after emerging gave a detailed description to a professional artist who painted their portrayal on canvas. This painting is currently the property of the Israeli Ministry of Antiquities and shows a tall chamber whose walls are covered to the ceiling with green ceramic tiles. On the right side is a very large sarcophagus covered with a gold and green covering. A large beautiful curtain sits on the far wall covering the entrance into the next chamber.

Under Muslim Control

During the years Jerusalem was controlled by the Turks they would for the most part not allow Jews to enter the Tomb of the House of Dovid.

More Photos

 
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