EAST
There are several words used to express this cardinal point, which imply “rise”, referring to rising from the sun (Josh. 11:3; 12:3; Mt. 2:1).
The Jews faced the eastern sun to “orient themselves” and to determine the other cardinal points (cp. Gen. 2:8).
The orientation of the gate located on the eastern side of Jerusalem was not without importance: During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the first rays of the eastern sun, heralds of the glory of God, could penetrate to the most holy place.