Search
Close this search box.

Tomb of Benei Hezir

Exploring Jerusalem

The Tomb of Benei Hezir is a tomb hewn from stone in the historic Mount of Olives Jewish cemetery of Jerusalem. Previously (and mistakenly) known as the Tomb of Saint James, the Tomb of Benei Hezir, is the oldest of four monumental rock-cut tombs in the Kidron Valley. Dating back to the period of the Second Temple, the Tomb of Benei Hezir rests next to the Tomb of Absalom and the Tomb of Zechariah in a complex of burial caves.


In This Photo: 1870 Photo by Felix Bonfils Showing the Tomb of Benei Hezir to the Left of the Tomb of Zechariah.

History and Architectural Style

To begin with, the Tomb of Benei Hezir dates to the Hellenistic period in the second century BCE and the time of the Hasmonean monarchy in Jewish history.

In addition, the architectural style of the tomb features ancient Greek and Nabataean architectural influences and decorative elements. The tomb’s façade features a classical distyle in antis with two pillars between two pilasters.

Old City Jerusalem Tour
Old City Jerusalem Tour - Muslim Quarter - Damascus Gate
In This Photo: Damascus Gate, One of the Most Beautiful Gates of the Old City

A Hebrew inscription can be found on an undecorated architrave above the two pilasters that shows it was the burial site of a Cohanim family by the name of Bnei Hazir. A Doric frieze and a cornice rest above the architrave.

The tomb was originally accessed from a single rock-cut stairwell that descends to the tomb from the north. An additional entrance was created later by quarrying a tunnel from the courtyard of the monument known as the Tomb of Zechariah. This is still the entrance to the burial complex today.

Who Was Hezir?

In fact, there are two people identified as Hezir in the Old Testament. The book of Chronicles speaks of a man named Hezir, the founder of a priestly division. The book of Nehemiah documents Hezir as one of the leaders who set their seals to the covenant. The inscription on the tomb tells us that the descendants of Hezir used the tomb, and there were multiple burials here of members of the Hezir family.


In This Photo: A Close Up of the Tomb

Tomb of Benei Hezir or The Tomb of St. James

The tomb was mistakenly known as the tomb of Saint James, the apostle in the late 19th century. It was thought that James the Just, the first Bishop of Jerusalem, hid from the Romans in the Tomb of Benei Hezir after Jesus was crucified and that later, he was buried there.


Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Shiloh Excavations In The City Of David

RELATED POSTS

Korazim National Park

Close to the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, just four kilometers from Capernaum; lies the Korazim National Park. Korazim (sometimes spelled “Chorazin”) was ...

Timna Park

Just 25 Km from Eilat sits Timna Park. A thousand acres of land perched in a charming valley surrounded by cliffs make it a must-see ...

Tel Lachish

Tel Lachish is the site of an ancient Near Eastern city, now an archaeological site and an Israeli national park in the Judean Hills.

Bethany

Bethany (Al-Eizariya) is a town outside Jerusalem. The New Testament tells about Lazarus of Bethany, who was raised from the dead by Jesus.

Israel’s Top Sites

What are Israel's Top Sites?! Well, you've reached the right place. I've compiled here the best guide for the top destinations in Israel!

Tel Aviv Promenade

This is very interesting story

Church of the Visitation

The Church of the Visitation in Ein Karem honors the visit paid by the Virgin Mary, to Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist.

Australopithecus

In this post, we explore the fascinating world of Australopithecus, unlocking the mysteries of our ancient ancestors.

The Old Synagogue at Meron

The Old Synagogue at Meron is one of the oldest synagogues found in Israel. And is the earliest example of the so-called 'Galilean' synagogues

Ramesses II Gate Jaffa

The Ramesses II Gate Jaffa is a must-see site when touring Old Jaffa. The intriguing-looking gate tells the story of an entire period!

Need help?

Skip to content