Ezekial 43

What is it: Olam Mikdash or The World of the Temple is a project to build in Israel a life-size model of the next Temple open to the public. In this model, the ceremonies of the Temple will be re-created. These include the Daily Services as well as those of the Sabbath, New Moon and Festivals. Imagine being able to see the ceremony of the Ashes of the Red Heifer, the Azazel Goat, or the Bringing of the Seven Fruits at Shavuot. The schedule of ceremonies will be rotated according to the Biblical Calendar. In addition to the buildings and ceremonies, there will be exhibits of Temple related subjects. The site will include a Temple related garden, and a Bazaar of Temple Craftsmen.

Why: In Ezekiel 43.7-10, there is a command to make a pattern of the Temple and to learn all of its architecture, ceremonies, and ordinances. This command from G-d was understood by the Rabbis to mean to make a model of the Temple to instruct the people in everything concerning the Temple. Rashi wrote that whoever saw the model would see the coming of the Messiah and the resurrection of the dead. The project will be devoted to raising awareness of the Temple in preparation for the building of the actual Temple. This facility will not only educate the public as to what the Temple was about, and how rites were conducted there, but also will actually prepare the visitor for their own later participation in the Third Temple. Another major reason for Olam Mikdash is the training of a qualified priesthood.

Who: This project is a joint effort of several individuals in Israel and the United States in conjunction with the Temple Institute of Jerusalem headed by Rabbi Israel Ariel. It has the backing of the Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi, and is under Orthodox supervision. The director of the project in Israel is Gilla Trebich, and in the United States Joseph Good. It is incorporated under the laws of Israel as an International Corporation compatible with American law.

How: The World of the Temple is financed by both investors and donations. Even though the cost of the project is over thirty million dollars, it is felt that the majority of the funds will come from small donations from the thousands of individuals committed to the return of the Holy Temple and its ceremonies as prophesied in the scriptures. Investors will have the opportunity for a return on their investment but should understand that this project is not for purposes of making people rich. This project exists primarily to bring the word of G-d to life in a special way as a stepping stone to the actual Temple once the Temple Mount is regained. This is not a get rich quick investment. The investors will have to believe in the merit of the project from a spiritual platform rather than a secular gain. The funds will be raised primarily through speaking engagements of Joseph Good. Steve Salter constructed a travel-size model of the Temple with the aid of Joseph Good. This model is the most accurate model at the current time. Presentations and seminars on all aspects of the Temple are being prepared and are now available for groups.

Where: Olam Mikdash, The World of the Temple, is to be built just outside of Jerusalem within the City of Ma’ale Adumin on the road to Jericho. The site is twenty acres in size and is located just behind The Good Samaritan Inn.

When: The project is already underway. The funds are being raised now and a leading Israeli Company has drawn up a business plan. The Temple Institute has already developed the plans for many of the buildings. Further architectural plans are the next step to be achieved. It is hoped that construction will be able to begin during the summer of 1999.

Hatikva Ministries is excited about being involved in a project to make this a reality. If you are supporting this work, please make sure to indicate this on your donations: Hatikva Ministries Temple Fund