High above Jerusalem, a lookout point beckons. This is Mount Scopus. It is a place where history unfolds. The mountain’s name echoes its purpose. “Scopus” is derived from the Greek word for “watcher.” Har HaTzofim is the Hebrew name. It means “Lookout Mountain.”
Mount Scopus stands 826 meters above sea level. It offers panoramic views of Jerusalem. This vantage point has strategic importance. Armies have used it to attack the city.
In 66 AD, Roman legions camped here. They planned their assault. This resulted in the destruction of the Second Jewish Temple. Later, the Crusaders used Mount Scopus as a base. They planned their entry into the city.
Let’s step back to the early 20th century. Zionist organizations sought to build a university. They chose this location for the Hebrew University. They considered it unwise to build on the Mount of Olives. It had many Christian connotations. The location corresponded to descriptions of the ancient Mount Scopus. Thus, the name was affixed to this peak. Construction began in 1918. The dedication ceremony occurred in 1925. Many dignitaries attended.
Between 1948 and 1967, Jerusalem was divided. East Jerusalem was under Jordanian control. West Jerusalem was under Israeli control. Mount Scopus became an Israeli enclave. It was isolated within Jordanian territory.
Access to the Hebrew University and Hadassah Hospital was difficult. A narrow road passed through Sheikh Jarrah. Arab sniper fire targeted vehicles. Road mines were a constant threat. In 1948, a convoy was attacked. It carried medical supplies to the hospital. This became known as the Hadassah medical convoy massacre. Seventy-eight Jewish doctors, nurses, and others were killed.
After the Six-Day War in 1967, Mount Scopus returned to Israeli control. It became part of Jerusalem.
Today, Mount Scopus is home to several landmarks. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is here. It is a respected research institute. Its Hecht Synagogue offers stunning views of the Old City. The National Botanic Garden contains the largest collection of Israeli plants.
Here lies the Cave of Nicanor. Nicanor of Alexandria donated gates to Herod’s Temple. Tabachnik Garden preserves ancient Jewish burial caves. It also offers lookout points. They face east towards the Dead Sea and west towards the Temple Mount.
Ammunition Hill sits on the western slope. It was a Jordanian outpost. It saw fierce fighting during the Six-Day War. Today, it serves as a memorial and museum. The Jerusalem British War Cemetery is also located on Mount Scopus.
Mount Scopus is more than a mountain. It is a symbol of resilience. It is a testament to history. It is a place where the past meets the present. As you stand here, consider the layers of history beneath your feet. Think about the battles fought. Remember the institutions built. This is Mount Scopus a true lookout on Jerusalem’s story.