Pondering the Harbor Road, Ephesus

Try to imagine what the view from the Theater to the Harbor (area) looked like in the biblical period.

Harbor Road, connecting the harbor of Ephesus to the Great Theater, was the path used by sailors and kings to enter the city. Built in the Hellenistic period, the road was not just lined with columns, colonnades, and sculptures, it was also lit with 50 street lamps after dark. Innovative for the period, it was one of only three illuminated streets in the Mediterranean basin.

We'll be returning to Türkiye and Ephesus next summer, June 27-July 8, 2026. Price is $3,300 (land only) for 12 days of archaeological illumination. You won’t find a better experience for the price!

Tips for "Reading" Egyptian Temples

Temples are a regular stop for tourists in Egypt. Check out the video below for five tips to improve your temple "reading" skills.

Ready to practice your reading skills?

For curated itineraries that offer deeper cultural connections and biblical study, email us here to learn about these four upcoming Egypt study-tours.

  • May 5 - 15, 2026

  • January 1 - 9, 2027

  • January 23 - February 7, 2027

  • March 30 - April 8, 2027

The Habu Temple: Philistines Appear on Walls in Egypt

The people-group known as Philistines in the Bible appear in a temple by the Nile. To learn more, check out the video below.

If you found this video interesting, you’ll probably like this one too. Follow the link here.

Experience Egypt

For curated itineraries that offer deeper cultural connections and biblical study, email us here to learn about these four upcoming Egypt study-tours.

  • May 5 - 15, 2026

  • January 1 - 9, 2027

  • January 23 - February 7, 2027

  • March 30 - April 8, 2027

Society of Biblical Literature Annual Meeting, Boston, 2025

JCBS booth hoodlums.

The Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Annual Meeting is the world's largest annual gathering of biblical scholars. This year’s meeting is being held in Boston’s Hynes Convention Center and nearby hotels. The place is abuzz with more than 900 academic sessions, workshops, and committee meetings. A large exhibit hall showcasing scholarly publications will be my home for the weekend. (Imagine my excitement in hanging out with all those new books!)

I’ll be residing in the Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies booth with Mark Yeh. Stop by and chat. We are here to discuss how professors, pastors, and academic institutions can benefit by partnering with JCBS to do study tours in the lands of the Bible.

If you missed the booth, feel free to email me anytime. Here’s the link to my desk.

The Face of Fusion: Egyptian-Hellenistic Art

The Ptolemaic Sphinx at NMEC

We recently had the incredible opportunity to view the Ptolemaic period sphinx currently on display at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in Cairo. This stunning piece proves that the majestic legacy of old Egyptian art didn’t just stop with the Pharaohs—it evolved beautifully into the Greek period.

Just look at that face! The craftsmanship captures a unique fusion of traditional Egyptian and Hellenistic styles.

On tour in Egypt

Our day in Cairo with our group of Bible Land Explorers from Burlington, Kentucky, was filled with awe-inspiring history. We are now en route to the airport, leaving the bustling energy of the capital behind as we fly south to Luxor to continue our journey through the wonders of the Nile.

Fact: Did you know that the bodies of 17 kings and 3 queens are on display in the Royal Mummies Gallery at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization? Don’t miss this stop. Here’s a link to their website.

Daily Life from the time of Moses at the Tomb of Rekhmire

Inside the Tomb of Rekhmire.

Scrambling in the Tombs of the Nobles: The Tomb of Rekhmire

Stepping into the Tomb of Rekhmire (TT100) in the Theban Necropolis is like opening a 3,500-year-old time capsule. Dating back to approximately 1400 BC—the reigns of Thutmose III and Amenhotep II—this isn’t just a burial site; it’s a vivid record of the ancient world.

Exterior views to TT100.

A Window into Daily Life in Ancient Egypt

While the Valley of the Kings focuses on the journey to the afterlife, the Tombs of the Nobles offer a rare glimpse into the "here and now" of the 18th Dynasty.

What makes TT100 truly unforgettable are the lavishly illustrated panels depicting daily life. These scenes cover everything from tax collection and foreign tribute to the intricate work of craftsmen.

Laborers making mud bricks illustrate on the tomb wall.

The Biblical Connection: Brick-Making and the Exodus

For those tracking biblical history, the "brick-making" scenes in Rekhmire's tomb are particularly striking. Living during the era many scholars associate with the time of Moses, Rekhmire was the Vizier (the highest-ranking official) under two powerful Pharaohs.

The tomb's wall paintings provide a vivid visual commentary on the labor conditions described in the Book of Exodus:

  • The Process: You can see workers fetching water and mixing mud with straw.

  • The Labor: Figures are shown using molds to sun-dry bricks, exactly as described in the biblical narrative.

  • The Context: Seeing these ancient laborers at work brings the historical reality of Egyptian servitude into colorful focus.

Khalid, a resident of Qurnah, gave me a great tour of the Tombs of the Nobles.

Why TT100 is a "Must-Visit"

Unlike the crowded royal tombs nearby, the Tomb of Rekhmire allows for a quieter, more intimate experience with history. The high-quality pigments and the sheer scale of the scenes make it one of the most important archaeological sites for understanding the socio-economic life of the New Kingdom.

Nubians presenting a giraffe and an monkey as tribute, as depicted in the Tomb of Rekhmire (TT100).

Come explore Egypt with us!

We have four upcoming Egypt study-tours. Email us here for details.

  • May 5 - 15, 2026

  • January 1 - 9, 2027

  • January 23 - February 7, 2027

  • March 30 - April 8, 2027

Whether you’re a Bible reader, history buff, or a modern-day explorer, the West Bank of Luxor offers an gripping experience of the world of the Bible.

The Hoopoe: The Bird of Kings and Wisdom

While stepping out of my hotel in Luxor I encountered this marvelously crested fellow: the Hoopoe (Upupa epops). I watched him grub the soft ground with that long beak.

Beyond its striking colors, this bird carries a heavy crown of history. In ancient Egypt, the hoopoe was a symbol of royalty. In Islamic folklore, they were messengers for King Solomon. In the Bible they made the “do not eat” list (Lev 11:13-19 and Deut 14:11-18).

Did you know? In Arabic, the hoopoe is called a hudhud. Go ahead and say it out loud—it’s as fun to say as this marvelous bird is to watch.

The Last of the 747s: Why Lufthansa Still Flies the Jumbo

Lufthansa Boeing 747-8 passenger planes parked in a row at the airport.

Here we go again. Yes, those are Boeing 747 passenger jets out there—a whole row of them. Currently, Germany’s Lufthansa is the world’s largest operator of these iconic old birds, keeping the “Queen of the Skies” alive in an era of twin-engine efficiency. (The other three carriers that still use these for passengers are Air China, Korean Air, and Rossiya Airlines.)

Did you know the original 747-100 was introduced way back in 1969? Boeing manufactured more than 1,500 of these jets over five decades. However, the era of the four-engine giant is fading; All American carriers officially abandoned the jumbo line in 2017.

I’m guessing Lufthansa keeps them alive for a variety of reasons. The 747’s high yield cabins maximize passenger numbers for long hauls. Its large belly bay means revenue is measured in freight as well as in passengers. And Lufthansa’s experience in developing specialized tooling and expertise means they can maintain their fleet via its subsidiary, Lufthansa Technik, without outsourcing. Those are all good reasons to stick with what they’ve got.

Today, only a few dozen 747s remain in service as passenger planes. The rest of the fleet has been scrapped or converted into freighters. Some have even more unusual second lives—like the Jumbo Stay Hotel at the Stockholm Arlanda Airport, where you can actually spend the night in a converted 747-212B. Personally, I can’t imagine it. After years of writhing in economy on long-haul flights, I would never choose to willingly sleep on a 747!

“Once I get you up there, where the air is rarefied
We'll just glide, starry-eyed
Once I get you up there, I'll be holding you so near
You may hear all angels cheer because we're together.”

Lyrics from “Come Fly with Me” by Sammy Cahn

Surprise Snowstorms: Following History to Sardis & Laodicea

Map showing the locations of Laodicia and Sardis in snow during a winter study-tour in Türkiye.

The Winter They Didn't See Coming: Lessons from Laodicea and Sardis

I'll never forget a January tour to Türkiye about 20 years ago when we visited the site of Laodicia in a snowstorm. We operated as usual (note the map in the snow!) and our students were undeterred.

I am reminded of how Cyrus the Great surprised the Lydians by marching through the winter cold to Sardis. Croesus, the Lydian king, had disbanded his army for the season, as was the habit in those days. I guess the Persians didn't get the memo. They did take Sardis tho! The year? 547 BC.

Note: For more on the wintertime defeat of the Lydians, see Herodotus's Histories (I.79-81 and I.84) or Xenophon’s Cyropaedia (2.1.6 and 7.1.23-28).

Join Us in the Sun (Not the Snow!)

Fortunately, we won’t face those freezing challenges when we visit Sardis and Laodicea next summer. We are heading back to these incredible biblical and historical sites in 2026, and we would love for you to be part of the journey.

Tour Details:

  • Destinations: Key sites across Türkiye, including the Seven Churches of Revelation.

  • When: Summer 2026.

  • Full Itinerary: Download the Türkiye Program PDF here.

Will you join us for this once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunity?

The Facultative Nomad: Birdwatching in Tanzania

The Facultative Nomad: Tracking the Yellow-Billed Stork

A "facultative nomad" is a creature that lives a settled life when it can, but moves around when required. Whether applied to birds, bugs, or even people, it describes a perfect balance of stability and survival.

This description fits the Yellow-billed stork (Mycteria ibis) of sub-Saharan Africa perfectly. These striking birds are staples of African wetlands and mudflats. Because of their specialized wading and feeding tactics, Yellow-bills avoid deep water, preferring the shallow edges where prey is easier to snatch.

As long as food is plentiful, they stay put. However, their larger patterns of migration remain largely unstudied and unclear—they simply follow the resources. I spotted this "gang" lingering in the reeds during a trip through northwest Tanzania.

Safari with Us in Africa

Are you ready to be a facultative nomad for a few weeks? While our 2026 African Safari offerings are currently full, we are already angling for our 2027 expeditions.

Don't miss the chance to see Tanzania’s incredible wildlife—from the Great Migration to the hidden life in the reeds—up close.

  • View our current travel opportunities: https://mark-ziese.squarespace.com/find-my-trip

  • Get on the 2027 Waitlist: Contact BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com

Interested in learning more about the Yellow-billed stork? Check out our posts here and here.

Aristotle and Paul

The Doric columns of the Temple of Athena in Assos overlooking the Aegean Sea from an 800-foot cliff.

Assos: Where Philosophy, Scripture, and the Aegean Meet

Colossal columns rise upright at the restored Temple of Athena in Assos. These pillars, featuring their distinctive Doric style, were originally erected in the 6th century BC. Standing at the ruins, the cliff drops 800 feet directly into the Aegean Sea. As you might imagine, the vista is spectacular!

Historically, sailors approaching the coast used this temple's distinctive outline as a landmark. Tucked into the jagged rocks in the shadows far below lies the ancient harbor—the very heart of the city's maritime life.

A Deep History of Famous Residents

The history of Assos stretches back to the Early Bronze Age, but its "guest list" is what truly sets it apart:

  • The Philosopher: Aristotle, its most famous resident, lived and taught here for several years.

  • The Apostle: St. Paul, its most famous visitor, famously walked there to meet his companions here (see Acts 20:13).

Join Our 2026 Western Türkiye Tour

We are headed back to the heights of Assos, the walls of Troy, the vibrant streets of Istanbul, and many other foundational sites in Western Türkiye in 2026.

Experience the intersection of classical philosophy and biblical history for yourself.

Click here for an up-to-date list of our upcoming tour opportunities!

Ostrich Brain-to-Body Ratio: Wisdom, Job 39, and the Assfish

We encountered this large male ostrich standing in the expansive grasslands of Tanzania during a wildlife safari.

The Ostrich: A Masterclass in Brain-to-Body Ratio

When it comes to the brain-to-body ratio, the ostrich isn't quite at the bottom of the list, but it’s certainly in the neighborhood. An ostrich possesses a tiny 1.5-ounce brain to steer a massive 250-pound bird. To put that in perspective, an ostrich's eye is actually larger than its brain!

Which animal actually holds the title for the lowest ratio? Scientists aren't entirely certain, but the debate usually swerves between the Bony-eared Assfish and—well, I’ll let you fill in the blank for the second candidate. (I mainly included that detail because I wanted to type the word assfish a second time).

A Biblical Perspective on the Ostrich

This lack of "intellectual firepower" was noted long before modern biology. As Job 39:17 reminds us:

"God did not endow her with wisdom or give her a share of good sense."

Despite their lack of "good sense," seeing a big male ostrich like this one in the Tanzanian grasslands is a highlight of any trip. They are powerful, prehistoric-looking, and endlessly entertaining to watch in the wild.

See the Wildlife of Tanzania for Yourself

Ready to witness the "silly" side of the savannah? We specialize in having fun while responsibly bringing history and nature to life!

  • View Our Travel Opportunities: Click here for an updated list.

  • Join the 2027 Safari Waitlist: Email me here with your questions.

If you enjoyed reading about this ostrich, check out these three birds here.

Seeking Shade

A trio of giraffes seek shade to escape the sun in the African savannah

Shade Seekers: The Social World of the Giraffe

A trio of giraffes pauses to escape the heat of the midday sun.

Giraffes are highly social animals, often found living in groups—a collective appropriately known as a “tower.” Beyond their towering height, their social sophistication is truly fascinating. They aren't just silent giants; they communicate with one another through a complex array of sounds and physical signals.

In the wild, you might observe a variety of giraffe communication methods, including:

  • Vocalizations: Chirps, barks, and even low-frequency hums.

  • Visual Signals: Head bobbing and tail wagging.

  • Breath: Powerful "blows" or snorts to signal alarm or presence.

Watching these interactions in person is a highlight of any trip to the savannah.

Join Our Upcoming AfricaN Safaris

Want to see a tower of giraffes in their natural habitat? We invite you to wander over to Africa and safari with us!

  • 2026 Expeditions: Now closed. All seats taken.

  • 2027 Bookings: Email us here to get on a waitlist.

For more on giraffes, check out our post here.

The Secret of Cheetah Tear Lines: Malar Stripes & Serengeti Safaris

Close-up of a cheetah in the Serengeti showing the dark malar stripes (tear lines) from its eyes to its mouth.

More Than a Pretty Face: The Function of Cheetah Tear Lines

Tear lines give the cheetah a distinctive and adorable face. These dark marks stand in sharp contrast to the tawny fur of this fast feline, connecting the inner corner of the eye directly to the mouth. But in the wild, these lines are far more than just a beauty mark.

The Science of Malar Stripes

Wildlife specialists refer to these markings as malar stripes (malar being the Latin word for "cheek"). Much like the black greasepaint football players apply under their eyes, it is believed these lines function to:

  • Reduce Glare: Absorbing sunlight to prevent snow-blindness or sun-glare on the open savannah.

  • Enhance Focus: Helping cheetahs, falcons, and other "tear-lined" predators spot, track, and pursue prey across long distances.

A Serengeti Encounter

We recently encountered this beautiful cheetah—and could hear the hidden chirps of her cubs—in the heart of the central Serengeti. Watching a mother cheetah navigate the tall grass is a masterclass in focus and stealth.

Spot a Fast Feline in the Wild

If seeing the world's fastest land animal in its natural habitat sounds like your kind of adventure, we invite you to join us.

  • 2026 Tours: Our current offerings are filling fast. See our destinations here.

  • 2027 Planning: Get on our waitlist. Email BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com

Like cheetahs? Here’s a link to a view.

The Kneeling Atlas of Pompeii: Exploring the Ancient Odeon

A well-preserved Roman sculpture of a Kneeling Atlas supporting a ledge in the Odeon theater of Pompeii, Italy.

Frozen in Time: The Kneeling Atlas of the Pompeii Odeon

One of the most striking details in the Odeon (the "Little Theater") of Pompeii, Italy, is the figure of the Kneeling Atlas. In Greek and Roman mythology, Atlas was tasked with holding up the celestial heavens; here, he stoically supports the architecture of one of antiquity's most intimate entertainment venues.

The Rise and Fall of the Little Theater

The Pompeii odeon was a hub for music and poetry, offering a more refined atmosphere than the large open-air amphitheater nearby. Its timeline is a dramatic window into Roman history:

  • Built: 1st Century BC.

  • Destroyed: 1st Century AD.

Like the rest of the city, the Odeon was enveloped in several meters of volcanic ash when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. This cataclysmic event paradoxically served as a time capsule, preserving the intricate stonework of the Atlas figures for nearly two millennia.

Note: have a look at our post on the odeon of Ephesus here.

Walk the Streets of Pompeii with Us

If seeing the well-preserved wonders of the Roman world is on your bucket list, we invite you to join us next year (May 28-June 6, 2026). We are returning to Italy to explore the ruins of Pompeii, the coast of Naples, and the layers of history in Rome.

  • Italy 2026: Click here for a link to the brochure.

  • Italy 2027: Email us here to get on the waitlist and be ready when registration opens.