Archaeology: The arch of Titus

Carved in relief on the triumphal Arch of Titus, in the ancient Forum (public square) of Rome, is a scene of Roman soldiers on parade carrying items looted from the temple in Jerusalem in A.D. 70. These items included the Table of the Showbread, the Menorah (Golden Lampstand) and a scroll of God’s law.

When the gospel was spreading throughout the Mediterranean world, a major event occurred -- the Roman army, under General Titus, invaded Jerusalem. On the ninth of Av (a Jewish calendar month corresponding to June) in A.D. 70, the army destroyed both the city and the temple, carrying away sacred temple items. In the ancient Forum in Rome there still stands a triumphal archway commemorating the victory of Titus and his army (cf. Mark 13:2; Luke 21:6).

Kyle Campbell