Jerusalem’s relief as a result of the Roman withdrawal was short-lived, as it had been when the Babylonians temporarily withdrew to deal with the Egyptians near the end of King Zedekiah’s reign. Under General Titus the Roman forces returned in 70 C.E. in increased numbers and laid siege to the city, now crowded with Passover celebrants.

Understanding the Context

Siege banks were thrown up by the Romans, and a ... During his ministry, Jesus was present at festivals in Jerusalem, where he often taught crowds. He twice drove out money changers and merchants from the temple courtyard. New Jerusalem is heavenly, not earthly, for it comes down “out of heaven from God.” (Re 21:10) So this city is not one erected by men and consisting of literal streets and buildings constructed in the Middle East on the site of the ancient city of Jerusalem, which was destroyed in 70 C.E.

Key Insights

When Was Ancient Jerusalem Destroyed? —Part Two What the Clay Documents Really Show This is the second of two articles in consecutive issues of The Watchtower that discuss scholarly questions surrounding the date of the first destruction of ancient Jerusalem. This two-part series presents thoroughly researched and Bible-based answers to questions that have puzzled some readers. Part One ... Jerusalem’s destruction emphasizes the importance of paying attention to Bible prophecy.

Final Thoughts

Roman coins commemorating destruction of Jerusalem in 70 C.E. When Was Ancient Jerusalem Destroyed? —Part One Why It Matters; What the Evidence Shows This is the first of two articles in consecutive issues of The Watchtower that discuss scholarly questions surrounding the date of the destruction of ancient Jerusalem. This two-part series presents thoroughly researched and Bible-based answers to questions that have puzzled some readers. “According to ... This section considers ancient examples of faith and courage, starting with Jonathan, the son of King Saul, then discussing King David, and ending with God’s people returning from exile in Babylon and rebuilding Jerusalem.