Bible Geography · Jerusalem, City of David · c. 700 BC – AD 70
Pool of Siloam
Description
The Pool of Siloam is located at the southern end of the City of David, at the terminus of Hezekiah's Tunnel — a remarkable 533-meter water channel carved through bedrock around 700 BC to secure Jerusalem's water supply during an Assyrian siege. In the first century it served as a major public gathering and ritual bathing site for pilgrims ascending to the Temple.
Significance
The healing of the man born blind at the Pool of Siloam is a powerful sign in John's Gospel that Jesus is the Light of the World. The miracle challenged religious categories about sin, suffering, and divine purpose, and led to a dramatic confrontation between the healed man and the Pharisees.
Key Events
Hezekiah's construction of the tunnel and pool to prepare for the Assyrian siege (c. 701 BC), the discovery of the Siloam Inscription recording the tunnel's completion, and Jesus healing the blind man by applying mud to his eyes and sending him to wash in the pool.
Modern Context
A large first-century Pool of Siloam was discovered during drainage work in 2004, revealing stepped pools used for ritual bathing. Hezekiah's Tunnel remains one of the most impressive ancient engineering feats in the Holy Land and is a popular wading experience for visitors to the City of David archaeological park.