So much can be learned from the cultic site at Tel Dan. The site was not one that the YHWH authorized, but it still offers us insight into the worship practices of the Israelites (in the Northern Kingdom of Israel) during the period of the two kingdoms. This site has been excavated and the park service has done some useful curating of the site to help visitors visualize things. According to recent information, the upper raised platform is slated for excavation in the coming season. This should yield even more useful information which confirms the Biblical text.
The site at Dan is also wonderful because of all the greenery and flowing water. It is a beautiful place to hike and take in the beauty of the northern Israel, the headwaters of the Jordan and the snow melt from the stately Mount Hermon. It is no mystery why the tribe of Dan sought out this land, killing the former residents to take it. It is also no mystery why the northern kingdom was established in this fertile and verdant region.
Going Deeper: Dan and the Golden Calf
Read 1 Kings 12:25-33
1. What did Jeroboam fear would happen if the people returned to Jerusalem to worship God according to 1 Kings 12:27?
2. What did he do to avoid what he feared according to 1 Kings 12:28-29?
3. What was the result according to 1 Kings 12:30?
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