Umm Quas

December 6
Umm Quas is an ancient city located in the northwest part of Jordan, about an hours' drive from here. Anciently it was called Gadara and its hilltop location gave it great military importance over the centuries.  On one occasion Jesus went here and was encountered one or two men (accounts differ) who were possessed of devils.  They pled with Jesus to cast out the evil spirits.  Jesus agreed but then sent the spirits into a herd of swine who then ran into the sea and were drowned.   (see Mark 5:1, Luke 8:26, and Matthew 8:28)

 Today there are impressive ruins in Um Quas.  Some of the buildings are remarkably well preserved.

As is typical of Greek and Roman cities, there is a forum and a main road that is built in standard Roman style.  

The view of the Sea of Galilee and surrounding territory is spectacular.  The city of Tiberius can be clearly seen and also several Israeli farms.  The Golan Heights are immediately to the north and Syria is northeast.  Israel is northwest.  It's kind of like the four corners of southern Utah.

A guard tower is a good thing to have in this area.

Here we are having lunch at the Top of the Rock restaurant.  It's hard to believe this peaceful place is surrounded by so much turmoil.