The Wilderness of Judea is a desolate landscape on the East side of the Judean Mountains. The topography of the mountains allows plentiful rain to fall on the West side, but very little rain comes to this region.

Atop the crest of the mountain ridge sits the city of Jerusalem – protected by the mountains on either side. To the East, beyond the wilderness, is the Jordan River valley.

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell us about Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River and then – on his way back to Jerusalem – his temptation in the wilderness [Matthew 4:1-11].

Jesus spent 40 days and 40 nights alone in this wilderness while also being tempted by Satan.

This photograph was taken from atop the cliffs above Qumran looking West toward Jerusalem (not visible). It was taken in the spring and you can see the region slightly green due to a rare and recent rain.