In Revelation 12, we see a dramatic vision: a woman—symbolizing Israel—fleeing into the wilderness to escape Satan’s wrath during the Great Tribulation. Scripture tells us she will be protected for 1,260 days (3½ years), a period that begins when the Antichrist breaks his covenant and sets up the abomination in the temple (Matthew 24:15; Daniel 9:27).
But where will Israel flee? Many scholars and prophecy teachers believe the answer is Petra. Yes, Petra, the place made famous to us in the “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” movie.
📍 Why Petra?
Though Petra is not mentioned by name in the book of Revelation, it is referred to in the Old Testament as Sela (Isaiah 16:1; 2 Kings 14:7)—both names meaning “rock". Petra is carved into sandstone cliffs in southern Jordan, about 50 miles south of the Dead Sea. Its natural fortification, narrow entrance (the Siq), and desert location make it a strategic refuge.
🏛️ Historical and Archaeological Highlights
Several scriptures suggest that Petra may be the hiding place for Israel’s remnant:
Even non-biblical factors support this theory:
🧬 Israel and Petra: A Prophetic Connection
Petra lies in the ancient land of Edom, descendants of Esau. Israel and Edom were often in conflict (Numbers 20:18–21; 2 Samuel 8:13–14). Petra was once renamed Joktheel by King Amaziah after a victory (2 Kings 14:7). The Edomites later betrayed Israel during Babylon’s invasion (Psalm 137:7), leading to prophetic condemnation (Jeremiah 49:16–18).
Today, Petra stands uninhabited—just as Jeremiah foretold: “‘As Sodom and Gomorrah were overthrown… so no one will live there; no people will dwell in it.’” (Jeremiah 49:18)
🌄 The Woman in Revelation 12
The woman “clothed with the sun” (Rev 12:1) represents Israel, as confirmed by Joseph’s dream (Genesis 37:9–11). She gives birth to a male child--Jesus, who ascends to heaven and will return to rule with a rod of iron (Psalm 2:7–9; Revelation 20:4–6).
Her flight into the wilderness is a future event, occurring halfway through the Tribulation. When the Antichrist desecrates the temple, Israel must flee—possibly to Petra—where God will supernaturally protect her for “a time, times, and half a time” (Rev 12:14).
🙌 God’s Protection Is Supernatural
While Petra may be the physical refuge, it is not the location alone that ensures safety. God’s hand will shield His people:
“He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:4)
✝️ Final Thoughts
Though we won’t be here to witness this moment, Petra offers a fascinating glimpse into God’s prophetic plan. It reminds us that:
But where will Israel flee? Many scholars and prophecy teachers believe the answer is Petra. Yes, Petra, the place made famous to us in the “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” movie.
📍 Why Petra?
Though Petra is not mentioned by name in the book of Revelation, it is referred to in the Old Testament as Sela (Isaiah 16:1; 2 Kings 14:7)—both names meaning “rock". Petra is carved into sandstone cliffs in southern Jordan, about 50 miles south of the Dead Sea. Its natural fortification, narrow entrance (the Siq), and desert location make it a strategic refuge.
🏛️ Historical and Archaeological Highlights
- Petra flourished between 9 B.C. and 40 A.D. as a trade hub.
- Its water system could deliver 12 million gallons per day—a marvel in the desert.
- Destroyed by an earthquake in 693 A.D., it now lies in ruins but remains a major tourist site.
- Only 15% of Petra has been excavated; the rest remains untouched.
- Designated one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
Several scriptures suggest that Petra may be the hiding place for Israel’s remnant:
- Daniel 11:41 – Jordan escapes the Antichrist’s control.
- Revelation 12:14 – Israel flees to a desert place prepared by God.
- Isaiah 63:1 – The Lord comes from Bozrah (Petra’s region) in judgment.
- Micah 2:12–13 – God gathers His people in Bozrah like sheep in a fold.
Even non-biblical factors support this theory:
- Jordan currently has a peace treaty in place with Israel.
- Petra’s geography makes it ideal for concealment and defense.
🧬 Israel and Petra: A Prophetic Connection
Petra lies in the ancient land of Edom, descendants of Esau. Israel and Edom were often in conflict (Numbers 20:18–21; 2 Samuel 8:13–14). Petra was once renamed Joktheel by King Amaziah after a victory (2 Kings 14:7). The Edomites later betrayed Israel during Babylon’s invasion (Psalm 137:7), leading to prophetic condemnation (Jeremiah 49:16–18).
Today, Petra stands uninhabited—just as Jeremiah foretold: “‘As Sodom and Gomorrah were overthrown… so no one will live there; no people will dwell in it.’” (Jeremiah 49:18)
🌄 The Woman in Revelation 12
The woman “clothed with the sun” (Rev 12:1) represents Israel, as confirmed by Joseph’s dream (Genesis 37:9–11). She gives birth to a male child--Jesus, who ascends to heaven and will return to rule with a rod of iron (Psalm 2:7–9; Revelation 20:4–6).
Her flight into the wilderness is a future event, occurring halfway through the Tribulation. When the Antichrist desecrates the temple, Israel must flee—possibly to Petra—where God will supernaturally protect her for “a time, times, and half a time” (Rev 12:14).
🙌 God’s Protection Is Supernatural
While Petra may be the physical refuge, it is not the location alone that ensures safety. God’s hand will shield His people:
“He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:4)
✝️ Final Thoughts
Though we won’t be here to witness this moment, Petra offers a fascinating glimpse into God’s prophetic plan. It reminds us that:
- God keeps His promises.
- God prepares places of refuge.
- God will protect His people—even in the darkest days.
- God is ALWAYS in control
RSS Feed