Question: The Sea of Galilee.

Answer: A deep inland fresh water lake surrounded by mountainous terrain. Located below sea level, it remains fresh water as it is replenished by tributaries, especially the Jordan River. The outflow also is the Jordan River flowing down to the Dead Sea, even further below sea level. Much of Jesus' ministry was in this region and the town bordering the lake. In Scriptures, the Sea of Galilee was also sometimes referenced by the area or community nearby.

Storms come up very quickly with large "sea like" waves due to the wind tunnel effect created by the surrounding mountains. Out on the lake, visibility can quickly be reduced making it impossible to see shore on any side. Today, as in Bible times, Galilee is a great source of fish.

    Mark 1:16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee

    Luke 5:1 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret

    John 6:1 Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias)

The view below is looking across the Sea of Galilee from the modern city of Tiberias. At the time of Jesus, Tiberias was a new city. The boat anchored offshore is a replica of a large fishing boat used at the time of Jesus. An actual boat from the period was found buried in the mud of Galilee and is now preserved and on display. Click Here for a panoramic view of Galilee, from the opposite side of the lake, taken from a lookout on the Golan Heights.