Rachel's Tomb
AbrahamicJewishshrineMiddle East18 BCE - present
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Location
Modern Name
Rachel's Tomb (Kever Rachel)
Country
Palestinian Territories
Region
Middle East
Coordinates
31.7189, 35.2004
Era
18 BCE - present
Site Type
Shrine
About
Traditional burial site of the matriarch Rachel, located on the road to Bethlehem, one of the most visited Jewish pilgrimage shrines.
Significance
Rachel weeping for her children (Jer 31:15) became a powerful symbol of Jewish exile and hope for return; the tomb is a focus of prayer especially for fertility.
History & Historical Arc
Mentioned in Genesis 35:20; venerated continuously since antiquity; the current domed structure was renovated by Moses M…
Archaeological Notes
The existing tomb building is of Ottoman-era construction; no archaeological excavation has confirmed the patriarchal-pe…
Key Features & Structures
- domed tomb chamber
- prayer hall
Visitor Information
Accessible from the Israeli side via the security barrier; open daily; women's section available.
Related Figures
RachelJacob
In the Bible
Source References
- Genesis 35:19-20
- Jeremiah 31:15
- 1 Samuel 10:2