Israel Designates Route 60 as ‘Biblical Highway’

The Israeli government has officially named Route 60—the highway running from Nazareth in the north to Beersheba in the south—as the ‘Biblical Highway.’ This route follows Israel’s central mountain ridge and is considered a setting for many historical and religious events.

Route 60 has been in existence for over 4,000 years. The road begins in Beersheba, where Abraham is believed to have established an oasis. The route then continues through Hebron, home to the Cave of the Patriarchs, purchased by Abraham about 3,800 years ago. Hebron was also King David’s initial capital city.

Further along, the highway passes Bethlehem, Jesus’ birthplace. It also reaches Jerusalem, home to Mount Moriah, and the First and Second Temples. The route then extends north, passing Bet El and Shiloh, significant spiritual centers for the Israelites.

As the route continues, it passes through Shechem, where Joshua is said to have buried Joseph’s bones. Other significant stops include Mount Tabor, where Deborah sang her victory song, and Megiddo, a site of numerous historic battles, before ending in Nazareth.

Advocates of the project, such as Yishai Fleisher, highlight its educational, cultural, and tourism importance. They compare it to famous routes such as Germany’s Romantic Road or the US’s Route 66.

David Parsons of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem supports the project. He emphasizes the importance of the route in countering antisemitism. By recognizing the Jewish people’s historical roots, the initiative aims to stabilize Israel’s heritage amid conflicting narratives.

Ze’ev Orenstein from the City of David notes that the initiative allows visitors to engage with biblical history physically. He compares it to Jordan’s King’s Highway, underscoring its historical relevance.

Israel’s Ministry of Tourism plans to integrate ‘The Biblical Highway’ into its promotions. Visitor centers, signage, and points of interest are anticipated additions. This initiative aims to invite visitors to explore the Bible as a living geography.