The Temple in Jerusalem

Disambiguation: This page refers to two distinct temples built on the same site in Jerusalem. For detailed information, see the specific articles below.

The Temple in Jerusalem served as the central sanctuary of ancient Israelite and Jewish worship, where God’s presence dwelt among His people. Two temples stood on the Temple Mount:

The Two Temples

First Temple (c. 957-586 BCE)

Solomon’s Temple - Built by King Solomon, this magnificent structure housed the Ark of the Covenant and served as Israel’s worship center for nearly 400 years until its destruction by Nebuchadnezzar II in 586 BCE.

→ See full article: Solomon’s Temple

Second Temple (516 BCE - 70 CE)

Rebuilt after the Babylonian exile under Zerubbabel and later magnificently expanded by Herod the Great. This is the temple Jesus knew and where much of the New Testament takes place. Destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE.

→ Covered in: Temple Mount (comprehensive article on the site and Second Temple period)

Related Articles

• Temple Mount - The sacred mount where both temples stood; now site of Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque
• Solomon’s Temple - Detailed article on the First Temple
• Ark of the Covenant - The sacred ark housed in the First Temple
• Jerusalem - The city where the Temple stood

Significance Across Traditions

Judaism: The holiest site, center of pilgrimage and sacrifice, focus of longing since 70 CE

Christianity: Where Jesus was presented as infant, taught, and prophesied destruction; Christians understand Christ as the true temple (John 2:21)

Islam: The Temple Mount (Al-Haram al-Sharif) is Islam’s third holiest site, where Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Night Journey