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Some 2000 years ago, John the Baptist lived and baptized
in a settlement called "Bethany beyond the Jordan" (John
1:28). This important site of early Christianity, which
Jesus also visited, has now been rediscovered in Jordan,
(about 1500 meters) East of Jordan River. It is being carefully
excavated by international archaeologists in preparation
for receiving visitors and pilgrims.
Bethany in the present Kingdome of Jordan (45 Kilometers
West of Amman), where John the Baptist lived and baptized,
has always been identified with several ancient prophets
and biblical episodes associated with the Jordan River area.
Theses include John the Baptist's mission, the baptism of
Jesus, Joshua's crossing of the Jordan River, the last days
of Moses, and the Prophets Elijah and Elisha. This Bethany
area has also been known as Bethania and Bethabara as depicted
on the 6th century mosaic map located at the Saint George's
church in Madaba (35 kilometers from Amman).
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