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RESOURCESForty-five minutes southwest of Jerusalem, visitors to Israel can experience one of the country's most tightly held secrets: the Valley of Elah. The recent Oscar-nominated movie, "In the Valley of Elah," starring Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron, may have done more for its name recognition than David's epic battle against Goliath which raged here, but this region, flanked by the gently rolling hills of Judea, still remains one of the Holy Land's less frequented gems.
Minutes after exiting Highway 1 linking Israel's two major cities of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, the verdant approach to the Valley of Elah gives way to secluded monasteries and vineyards where Israelis and more and more travelers come to sample the rising stars in Israeli wines. The region surrounding the Valley of Elah is one of the hotspots of Israeli viniculture. Wine exports from the country have doubled since 2001 with France the number two importer of Israeli wine after the United States.
The Top 10 of Israeli WinesNear the gates of the Dir a-Rafat Monastery, wine fans come to taste the Moni Winery's signature Estate Reserve. This family-run operation established in 2001 and perched high above kibbutz Tzora and the larger Efrat Winery produces upwards of 40,000 bottles annually. More boutique wineries pepper the valley and Rogov's 2008 Guide to Israeli Wines ranks Ella Valley, at Kibbutz Nativ HaLamed Heh, in the top 10 of Israel's wineries. Tours here include demonstrations of the latest in winemaking technology as well as how some methods from antiquity are still practiced today.
Meteorological Monks and Hand-Painted PotteryNearby, down a gently winding road, Israel's first meteorological station still functions and is maintained by monks within the confines of the Beit Jamal Monastery. During visiting hours, visitors admire the remains of a mosaic from a 5th-century Byzantine church that occupied the site until the Persian invasion of 614. A more modern structure erected by Salesian monks in the 1800's stands today, as well as a second church for the 32 Sisters of Bethlehem, who are sworn to a vow of silence. This idyllic setting is often the venue for concerts and a favorite pit stop for cyclists. Even when there are no performances, the nuns wordlessly sell charming, hand-painted pottery.
Rustic Cookery and Idyllic Scenery where David Slew GoliathVisitors to the Valley of Elah in spring are greeted by a carpet of red anemones and multicolored lupins. Hiking amongst the remains of ancient towns like Azeka and King Hezekiah's Sokho help conjure up the epic biblical battle between David and Goliath, which the Bible tells us took place here. Centuries later, Arab armies surged up the valley to conquer Jerusalem.
Ancient wine presses dot the ruins, attesting to the valley's winemaking importance over the millennia. In summer, hikers and bikers bask in the shade of forested Britannia Park and along the banks of Nahal Sorek, one of Israel's longest watercourses. When it's time to eat, a plethora of charming country restaurants serve up an array of culinary treats. One such spot, Pa'amon, is nestled among the vines of a local vineyard and offers a selection of local wines and rustic cooking. A little farther afield, off one of the back roads, Jerusalemites come for a traditional Saturday afternoon Cholent (from the French "chaud, lent," referring to its overnight recipe) at the pastoral Bar BaHar restaurant near Moshav Bar Giora. Tucked away in the Eshtaol Forest, Tavlin's menu uses herbs and spices native to the area and specializes in locally produced cheeses, and yet more boutique wines. A fragrant spice market is attached.
Carved Out by Hand: The Underground City of Beit GuvrinAt the southern end of Route 38, which leads from the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway to the Valley of Ellah, stands the biblical town and now national park of Beit Guvrin. Originally a Jewish settlement dating back at least 3,000 years, the sprawling city over time became home to Byzantine Christians and later Muslims. Impressive bell-shaped caves and underground chambers were hollowed by hand out of the soft chalk creating an entire underground city. In the park, which stretches over one thousand acres, visitors clamber through the subterranean columbaria where carrier pigeons were raised, and see mosaics, ancient churches and Byzantine tombs. During Chanukah, Beit Guvrin's caves serve as a popular candle-lit venue for concerts.
AccommodationThe Valley of Elah is an easy day trip from either Jerusalem or Tel Aviv - less than 45 minutes from either. Those wishing to sleep over can choose from an assortment of bed and breakfasts and even monasteries, and at Neve Shalom-Wahat A-Salam, a Jewish-Christian-Muslim community established by a Jewish-born Dominican monk from Egypt, there is a comfortable guesthouse. Pink Floyd bassist Roger Waters played here in 2006; fans clambering to catch a glimpse of him caused one of the worst traffic jams in Israel's history.
The issue of visiting the Temple Mount in our time can be divided into
two separate questions:
1) Is there any
prohibition whatsoever to enter the Temple Mount?
2) Assuming that such
a prohibition exists, with what restrictions, if at all, is visiting the Temple
Mount nevertheless possible?
Generally speaking,
there are a number of questions and issues regarding the Temple Mount and the
site of the Temple. The Temple area divides into several zones: the Kodesh
ha-Kodashim (the Holy of Holies), the Heikhal (the Sanctuary), and
Har ha-Bayit (the Temple Mount). This division is by Torah law. The
Heikhal and Har ha-Bayit further divide into sub-zones; this
division is on the rabbinic level. Obviously, the severity of entering any
particular area varies according to the area's sanctity, regardless of the
question of ritual purity and impurity.
THE VARIOUS ZONES OF
THE TEMPLE AREA
A.
the kodesh ha-kodashim
Entry into the
Kodesh ha-Kodashim is permitted solely to the High Priest and only on Yom
Kippur.
B. THE
HEIKHAL
As for the Heikhal, "needless entry," as it is termed by
Chazal, is forbidden. There is, however, a question about the Rambam's
position on this issue. The Rambam states (Hilkhot Bi'at ha-Mikdash
2:1-2):
The High Priest did
not enter the Holy of Holies except on Yom Kippur; but an ordinary priest would
enter the Holy Place every day for the service.
All priests were
admonished not to enter the Holy Place or the Holy of Holies outside the time of
service. For it is said: "That he come not at all times into the holy place
within the veil" (Vayikra 16:2), "the holy place" referring to the Holy
of Holies, and "within the veil" being an admonition with respect to the entire
Temple.
These laws are based
on the Gemara in Menachot 27b. The Rambam seems to imply that the
prohibition to enter the Temple outside the time of service applies exclusively
to the priests, and not to ordinary Jews. The reason for this might be that the
priests are connected to the sacrificial order in the Temple, and therefore they
are forbidden to enter the Heikhal when they are not involved in such
service. In any event, the Vilna Gaon does not mention this point; he leaves the
impression that needless entry into the Heikhal is forbidden to
all.
C. THE AZARA
(THE TEMPLE COURTYARD)
In various places in
the Torah, the term "Kodesh" refers to both the Kodesh ha-Kodashim
and the Heikhal. The next level of sanctity is that of the
Azara. While it too is endowed with a certain sanctity, the term
"Kodesh" does not apply to it.
The Rambam describes the area of the Azara as follows (Hilkhot
Beit ha-Bechira 1:5):
These are the things
that were essential in the construction of the Temple: A Holy Place and a Holy
of Holies were to be made. In front of the Holy Place there was to be a specific
place called the Ulam. Together these three structures were called the
Heikhal. Around the Heikhal, at a distance, another wall was
erected, corresponding to the hangings of the court [of the Tabernacle] in the
wilderness. Everything comprised within this partition, which corresponded to
the court of the Tent of Meeting, was called the Azara. All the
aforementioned together was referred to as the
Mikdash.
Regarding the Azara, there is no prohibition of needless entry.
There are, however, certain types of conduct that are forbidden there. The
guiding principle is that when a person enters the Azara, he should not
feel overly relaxed, as if he were sitting in his living room. This finds
expression primarily with regard to sleeping and sitting in the Azara.
There is a famous halakha that is mentioned in several
places:
Sitting in the
Azara is permitted only to the kings of the House of
David.
It should be noted
that it is unclear whether these prohibitions are by Torah law or only by
rabbinic decree. This issue is subject to a dispute in Zevachim
16.
D. HAR
HA-BAYIT (THE TEMPLE MOUNT)
The wall of the
Azara constitutes the border separating between the priestly and
levitical camps. The next level of sanctity (in descending order), below that of
the Azara, is the sanctity of the Temple Mount. On the Temple Mount, free
entry is somewhat restricted, so as not to detract from the atmosphere
appropriate for the place. These prohibitions fall into a category that appears
several times in the Torah: the mitzva of showing reverence to the
Temple.
The source of these prohibitions is a Mishna in Berakhot
(9:5):
A man should not
enter the Temple Mount with his staff or with his shoes on or with his wallet or
with his feet dust-stained; nor should he make it a short cut, and spitting [on
it is forbidden], a fortiori.
The Gemara on this
Mishna specifies additional prohibitions, but adds nothing to the basic
principle. The Gemara explains that the command is to refrain from conducting
oneself in the sanctuary as if he were in his own home.
The Rambam adds something to what is stated in the Mishna and the Gemara
(Hilkhot Beit ha-Bechira 7:1-2):
It is a positive
commandment to revere the Sanctuary, for it is said: "You shall … revere My
sanctuary" (Vayikra 19:30). This does not bid you fear the Sanctuary
itself, but Him who commanded that we revere it.
What did this
[command to] revere imply? That one might not enter the Temple Mount with his
staff, or with his sandals on his feet, or in his undergarment, or with the dust
upon his feet, or with coins wrapped up in his kerchief; and needless to say, it
was forbidden to spit any place in the Temple Mount. If one found it necessary
to spit, he had to absorb the spittle in his cloak. Nor might one use the Temple
Mount to shorten his way by going in through one entrance and going out through
the opposite entrance, but he had to go around it from the outside. One might
not enter it at all except to perform a religious duty.
The Rambam adds the
last line, according to which even a ritually clean person is forbidden to enter
the Temple Mount, not for the sake of a mitzva. There does not seem to be
a source in the Gemara for what the Rambam says here. The Kesef Mishne
directs us to the laws governing a synagogue:
And that which he
wrote: "One might not enter it at all except to perform a religious duty" – in
chapter Benei ha-Ir (Megila 28b) we say this about a synagogue.
All the more so, should this apply to the Temple.
The law governing the
sanctity of a synagogue appears in Megila 28a. There the Mishna
states:
Rabbi Yehuda said
further: If a synagogue has fallen into ruins, it is not right to deliver
funeral orations therein nor to wind ropes nor to spread nets nor to lay out
produce on the roof [to dry] nor to use it as a short cut. As it says: "And I
will bring your sanctuaries into desolation" (Vayikra 26:31), [which
implies that] their holiness remains even when they are desolate. If grass comes
up in them, it should not be plucked, so as to excite
compassion.
Regarding this
Mishna, the Gemara says:
For instance, Ravina
and Rav Ada bar Matana were once standing and asking questions of Rava when a
shower of rain came on. They went into the synagogue, saying: "Why we have gone
into the synagogue is not because of the rain, but because the discussion of a
legal point requires clarity, like a clear day."
It follows from this
passage that one is forbidden to enter a synagogue for extraneous purposes. The
Kesef Mishne invokes a kal va-chomer, arguing that a similar
prohibition applies to the Temple Mount. But this argument is by no means
simple. If we understand, as did the Ramban, that the sanctity of a synagogue
derives from the fact that it is used for the performance of a mitzva
(tashmish mitzva), similar to the strings of tzitzit – then
the prohibition is on an entirely different plain, for the sanctity of the
Temple Mount is not based on tashmish mitzva. Thus, when the Torah
writes, "And you shall revere My sanctuary," which, according to the Rambam
includes the Temple Mount – it imposes prohibitions upon the Temple Mount which
are entirely different than those imposed upon synagogues. If, however, we
understand that the sanctity of a synagogue is similar to consecration, i.e.,
the consecration of an object for its value, kedushat damim it is then possible
to compare the prohibitions applying to the synagogue to those applying to the
Temple Mount. Even then, however, the comparison is not so simple, for it is not
clear that the Temple Mount falls into the category of consecrated property by
virtue of monetary ownership.
It may be suggested that the Rambam understood by way of logical
reasoning that the command to revere the sanctuary, which applies also to the
Temple Mount, includes the prohibition of needless entry. Thus, one is only
permitted to enter the Temple Mount for the sake of a mitzva. It should
be noted that since the Rambam understood that the mitzva of revering the
sanctuary applies also to the Temple Mount, it follows that the prohibition to
enter the Temple Mount for no reason is by Torah law.
It may further be
suggested that, according to the Rambam, the prohibition of needless entry to
the Temple Mount is based on the mitzva of safeguarding the sanctuary.
This mitzva is explicitly stated in Parashat Korach (Bamidbar
18:1-7):
And the Lord said to
Aharon, You and your sons and your father's house with you shall bear the
iniquity of the sanctuary: and you and your sons with you shall bear the
iniquity of your priesthood. And your brethren also of the tribe of Levi, the
tribe of your father, bring you near with you, that your sons with you shall
minister before the tent of the Testimony. And they shall keep your charge, and
the charge of all the tent: only they shall not come near the vessels of the
sanctuary and the altar, that neither they, nor you, die. And they shall be
joined to you, and keep the charge of the Tent of Meeting, for all the service
of the tent, and a stranger shall not come near to you. And you shall keep the
charge of the sanctuary, and the charge of the altar: that there be no wrath any
more upon the children of Israel. And I, behold, I have taken your brethren the
Levites from among the children of Israel: to you they are given as a gift for
the Lord, to do the service of the Tent of Meeting. Therefore, you and your sons
with you shall keep your priest's office for everything that concerns the altar,
and within the veil: and you shall serve: I have given your priest's office to
you as a service of gift: and the stranger that comes near shall be put to
death.
The Rambam, based on
the mishnayot dealing with this mitzva, rules in Hilkhot Beit
ha-Bechira 8:8 that the mitzva applies also to the Temple
Mount:
Where did the Levites
keep guard? At the 5 gates of the Temple Mount; at its 4 corners inside; at the
4 corners of the Azara outside, since it was forbidden to sit within the
Azara; at the 5 gates of the Azara outside the Azara, since
the priests kept guard [within] at the Gate of the Hearth and at the Gate of the
Flame. There were thus eighteen posts.
It is possible to
argue that there is no proof from here that the mitzva of safeguarding
the sanctuary applies also to the Temple Mount. It may indeed apply only to the
Azara, but practically speaking the safeguarding of the Azara must
be executed at the gates of the Temple Mount. On the other hand, it is entirely
possible to understand that the mitzva of safeguarding the sanctuary
applies even to the Temple Mount. If that is the case, the Rambam may have
reasoned that if there is a mitzva to safeguard the Temple Mount, then
certainly it must be forbidden to enter the Mount for no reason, and the guards
are required to warn those entering the area about this
prohibition.
II. THE MITZVA
OF REVERING THE SANCTUARY
Practically speaking,
the mitzva of revering the sanctuary has ramifications regarding the
manner in which one is permitted to enter the Temple
Mount.
First of all, one is forbidden to enter not for the sake of a
mitzva. Obviously, we must clarify the precise definition of "for the
sake of a mitzva." This question arises in various contexts, and in each
context, the answer is different. What is the law regarding a person who wishes
to enter the Temple Mount in order to experience that unique feeling of intimacy
with God? Is such entry considered "for the sake of a mitzva"? It is
entirely possible that even such entry is considered "for the sake of a
mitzva." Hence, a person who thinks that visiting the Temple Mount will
enhance his fear of Heaven should be permitted to do so. According to this
understanding, the prohibition of entering the Temple Mount for no reason
applies only to entry for the sake of taking a walk, or the
like.
An additional prohibition governing entry into the Temple Mount is the
prohibition of entering with one's shoes, one's staff, or the like. It may be
assumed that the specific restrictions mentioned by the Rambam do not exhaust
the mitzva of revering the sanctuary; it would, for example, be forbidden
to enter the Temple Mount riding a bicycle, even though such a prohibition is
not explicitly stated in the Mishna. It seems, however, that the primary
practical prohibition is that which forbids one to enter the Temple Mount
wearing shoes.
The Ramban writes in
his commentary to the Torah that wherever there is a revelation of the
Shekhina, one may not go about in shoes, and it is for this reason that
the priests would perform the Temple service while barefoot. If the prohibition
against entering the Temple Mount with shoes is connected to these words of the
Ramban – then it would only be permissible to enter the Temple Mount when one is
absolutely barefoot. This, however, is difficult, for the Gemara in Zevachim
24 implies that the priests would serve barefoot only in order to overcome
the problem of an interposing substance between their feet and the floor of the
Azara, and not because of a prohibition of entering the sanctuary with
shoes.
Alternatively, we may
understand that the prohibition to enter the Temple Mount with shoes stems from
the fact that such walking is normal walking, and as such it is inappropriate
for the Temple Mount. According to this, it may be permissible to enter the
Temple Mount with some type of foot covering that is not a normal shoe. This
question was raised by the Minchat Chinukh (commandment 254); he too,
however, fails to reach a clear conclusion.
This week we dealt with the various parts of Har ha-Bayit, and the mitzva
of revering the sanctuary. Next week we will deal with purity
requirements of a person entering those areas.
FOOTNOTES:
*This lecture was not
reviewed by HaRav Lichtenstein.
[1] The term that the
Torah uses with regard to the prohibition of entering the Temple in a state of
ritual impurity – lo tetam'u – is a plural form, but clearly the
prohibition applies to each and every individual (just like "You shall not eat –
lo tokhlu - on the blood," or the like).
Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International Airport has been judged "best airport in the Middle East" and the "world's second best airport" that handles 5-15 million passengers a year, says Arie Sommer, Israel Tourism Commissioner for North and South America. The survey was conducted by the Geneva-based Airports Council International (ACI) whose Airport Service Quality Survey is based on the results from nearly 200,000 questionnaires completed by passengers in 2007. The survey captures the passenger's immediate appraisal of 34 airport service factors, from check-in through to departure at the gate.
The new Ben Gurion International Airport was inaugurated in 2003 and instead of being the customary construction of glass and steel has a unique design that emphasizes the cream and gold of Jerusalem limestone. "Passing through Ben Gurion Airport, whether arriving or departing," observed Sommer, "is an elegant and uplifting experience." The airport was designed to make security part of the process - rather than the addition of tables and x-ray machines in an existing space. For passengers, the most dramatic elements are the long moving floor ramps that transport departing and arriving passengers past each other, the displays of ancient mosaics discovered during the terminal's construction, and the vast circular departure lounge whose central fountain is surrounded by Le Corbusier club chairs.
The best large airport in the world, according to the survey, is Hong Kong, with Dallas-Fort Worth judged the best in the United States. Placed 2nd, 3rd and 4th in the Middle East were the airports of Doha (Qatar), Abu Dhabi and Muscat (Oman). Full details of the survey may be found here.
Ben Gurion International Airport is served by more than 70 airlines, with as many as 130 weekly nonstop flights connecting North America to Israel and vice versa - on Air Canada, Continental, Delta, El Al and Israir.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GUIDE
Stanley's Bar Resturant (French Cuisine) - 3 Horkanos Street, Jerusalem, Tel. 02-625-9459 Pagoda, Lido Beach, on the Sea of Galilee,
Chinese & Thai Experence.Tel 972-6-672-5513
EL AL and the Israel Bike Experience offer special bicycle package tours
Jerusalem - With so much to see in a country of such compact size, Israel may just be the perfect place to hit the road (or off-road) by bike. And now, EL AL is partnering with the Israel Bike Experience to offer active and eco-conscious travelers to Israel weeklong bicycle packages for riders of all abilities.
Travelers can bring their bicycles on board the EL AL flight to Israel (for no extra charge), and then choose between 7-day bicycle tours on either a Northern Central route or a Southern Central route. With the Northern Central package, cyclists begin with a circular route through the hills of the Galilee, then through the Beit Keshet Forest to the city of Nazareth, on to Jerusalem and ending at the Dead Sea. On the Southern Central route, riders embark on a ride through the Negev Desert gorge, to the Dead Sea and Masada, and on to Jerusalem.
Along each route, riders are offered the option of a challenging off-road route for intermediate/advanced cyclists, a popular off-road route for intermediate cyclists, and an on-road route for beginners.
Package prices start at $2,575 per person, and include roundtrip airfare on EL AL from New York (JFK/Newark), 7 nights accommodations based on double occupancy, daily touring and full board.
To book the EL AL Israel Bike Experience, call (800) EL-AL-SUN or any travel agent.
Just in case you need another great reason to visit Israel: note five of Israel's Nature Reserves. "Dedicated to preserving not only the natural beauty of the landscape, but also the archaeological sites and historic artifacts that lie within their boundaries. Israelis and tourists are encouraged to experience and enjoy the reserves' bounty - and each is equipped with eco-friendly amenities for visitors. The five newly designated reserves - arranged north to south - are: NIMROD FORTRESS NATURE RESERVE atop the Golan Heights with one of the largest and most magnificent medieval castles in the entire Middle East plus the pristine waterfalls and pistachio groves of Banias and the New Testament's Caesarea Philippi; SENEH NATURE RESERVE, PALMACHIM-56 acres of Medieterranean beach with a breeding ground for sea tortoises and the home of unique-to-Israel flora and fauna plus the dramatic ruins Yavne's ancient seaport; EVTACH SEA NATURE RESERVE; JUDEAN DESERT NATURE RESERVE: 150,000 acres, including the Garden-of-Eden beauty of Ein Gedi on the Dead Sea shore, south to the Negev Desert's massive and spectacular Ramon crater.
By private car
Independent tour packages
Regular tours of cities in conjunction with hotel packages
Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration
Purchases over $50.00 made in foreign currency qualify for a VAT refund at the
airport upon departure. Ask for a VAT refund form when making these purchases.
Purchases over $50.00 made in foreign currency qualify for a VAT refund at the
airport upon departure. Ask for a VAT refund form when making these purchases.
PASSPORT:
A valid passport is required to enter Israel. U.S. citizens and citizens of
certain other countries do not have to acquire a visa before entering Israel. A
tourist visa that allows you to stay in the country for three months is
automatically granted when you arrive in the country. If you are from a country
other than the US or Canada, call your nearest Israeli Consulate or Israel
Government Tourist Office.
FLIGHT TIME:
The flight from New York to Tel Aviv nonstop is about 9.5 hours long. The trip
back is about 11, due to prevailing winds. If your flight stops over in Europe,
it will take that much longer. Ample food is served on flights, and most offer
movies and recorded audio programs to entertain you.
WHAT TO WEAR:
Israel is for the most part, a fairly informal country. When visiting holy
sites, you are requested to dress modestly. This means long pants for men, and
covered shoulders and pants or dress/skirt that covers the knees for women.
Be sure to bring enough prescription drugs to last your trip, an extra copy of
your prescription(s), an extra pair of glasses or contacts, soft slippers and
eye covers for the long plane trip, a sewing kit, etc.
FILM:
Though film for your camera is widely available, it tends to be quite expensive,
so bring more than you think you'll need. VERY TRUE!!!!
CLOTHING - SUMMER
(April to October): For men, lightweight slacks, shorts and open-neck shirts,
sport jacket or suit and tie. For women, lightweight dresses or skirt outfits,
a more formal dress. For both, jeans, light shoes, sandals, walking shoes,
sunglasses, hat, swimsuit, a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings in the
hills.
CLOTHING - WINTER
(November to March): For men, slacks, shirts, sport jacket or suit and tie.
For women, a warm suit, blouses, skirts, slacks, a long dress or evening skirt.
For both, jeans, one light outfit for the warm south, a bathing suit, sweaters,
a coat and an umbrella.
Israel enjoys long, warm dry summers (April-October) and generally mild winters
(November-March), with occasional rain during January and February. Winters are
so mewhat drier and cooler in the hilly regions such as Jerusalem and Safed.
WHAT TO EAT:
Israel offers a unique blend of many cultures which is reflected in the cuisine
it has to offer. Israel's traditional breakfast is world renowned, and is served
in all hotels. It includes many fruits, cheeses, breads, etc. and often makes
lunch optional. Fast food restaurants are in most cities and towns, and a taste
of home is usually not very far away.
YEAR-ROUND EVENTS:
Dates will vary from year to year due to the Hebrew calandar, and some may not
be annual events.
January:
Tu B'Shvat - New Year of the Trees celebration featuring special
tree planting tours.
Tiberias Marathon
Febrauary:
Dead Sea Marathon
March:
International Book Fair, Jerusalem
Spring migration birdwatchers festival, Eilat
April:
Passover - the Feast of Unleavened Bread (can be in late March)
Haifa Children's Theater Festival
An Art Fair in the Cardo, Jerusalem
Folk Music and Instrumental Music Festival
Yom Ha-Shoah, Holocaust Memorial Day
May:
Israel Independence Day
Israel Festival, Jerusalem
Jerusalem Day
June:
Abu Gosh Music Festival
Blues Festival, Haifa
July:
International Film Festival, Jerusalem
Israeli Folkdance Festival, Karmiel
Hebrew Song Festival, Arad
Hot Air Balloon Festival, Ayalon Valley
August:
Puppet Theatre Festival, Jerusalem
Reggae Festival, Ashkelon
Red Sea Jazz Festival, Eilat
Wine Festival
September:
Sea of Galilee Crossing, Tiberias
October:
Chamber music concerts, Tabhga
Pentacostal World Conference
Jewish Folklore Festival during Sukkot
Israel Alternative Theatre Festival
November:
Guitar Festival
December:
International Christmas Choir Assembly
Red Sea Festival of Classical Music, Eilat
Israel provides a number of opportunities to visitors who wish to work in a
kibbutz or an army base for a few weeks. These programs usually involve the
sale of an air ticket with minimal land arrangements. Please contact the IGTO
for specific information about these unique opportunities.
HOSTELS
Israel has developed a full network of 31 youth hostels. The Israel Youth
Hostels Association is a member of the Int'l Youth Hostels Federation. The
Association's Youth Travel Bureau offers an exciting selection of tour packages
for the independent traveller, including accommodations at Israel's modern
hostels.
MUSIC
Church choirs, bands, folk-dance groups and others find Israel the perfect ve
nue for combining their desire for an appreciative audience with an opportunity
to see the Holy Land. The Ministry of Tourism can help organize performances at
select venues, according to the group's prepared itinerary. And of course,
participating in Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem and Jerusalem is a once-in-
a-lifetime thrill for any choir. For the visitor to Israel in search of musical
motivation, consider attending a symphony concert at one of Israel's state of
the art concert halls. And for opera fans, a must-see is the new Opera on Tel
Aviv's promenade. If your clients would like a taste of Israeli folklore, the
YMCA in Jerusalem offers a wonderful program, and numerous musical clubs abound
in Tel-Aviv, Haifa and Jerusalem. Check the concert schedules, because the
world's best known rock 'n roll artists and groups visit Israel on a regular
basis.
CENTRAL DISTRICT
Israel's Mediterranean coastline is dotted with perfectly planned resort towns,
old and new, as well as archeological sites that are preserved, cherished and
visited frequently by natives and visitors alike. Tel Aviv is Israel's
commercial, financial and cultural center; the old port of Jaffa has been
restored as a cultural and artistic center featuring some of the nations' best
restaurants and galleries. Smaller coastal cities and towns, such as Netanya,
Herzlia and Naharia create a slower, easier going lifestyle, while featuring
some of regions finest beaches and hotels.
Caesarea's Roman crusader ruins are world renown while Acre is an
archaeologist's dream. Within the walls of this ancient city are networks of
alleys and streets filled with life. Haifa, Israel's third largest city is the
country's major port, and is built on three levels.
Megiddo is the site Christians believe will be the location of Armageddon.
Ashdod: One of the five great Philistine cities, the modern city of Ashdod was
founded in 1957. It is a major seaport, and is part of Israel's master plan for
tourism development. If passing through, you may visit the sandy beach, or if
you visit on a Wednesday, drop by the flea market on Lido Beach.
Bethlehem: Nestled in the Judean hills a few miles south of Jerusalem, is the
birthplace of Jesus and King David. It is a town of steeples and spires. The
main site is the Church of the Nativity, which dominates Manger Square. In the
church, visit the Grotto of the Nativity, where a silver star marks the spot
where Jesus was born. On Christmas eve, the town and the church are the sites
for magnificent and solemn ceremonies. When you are discussing visiting the
Holy Land, be sure to mention the opportunities for church choirs to perform
during the Christmas celebrations. There is no better way for a church group to
be part of a meaningful celebration than to be singing at this historic site on
Christmas eve.
Caeserea: The Crusader ruins at Caesarea are among the most impressive in
Israel. This fascinating city was built by Herod in the year 22 B.C.E., and was
capital of the Roman administration in Palestine for 500 years. The nearby
restored ampitheatre is the site for many a concert performance throughout the
year. Inland from the ruins is Israel's first golf course, should you wish to
play a round or two.
En Gedi: Not far from Masada, near the Dead Sea, lies En Gedi, an oasis in the
desert, with waterfalls, wildflowers and green trees. Visit David's waterfalls,
a perfect spot for a hike and a swim in one of the cold pools.
Haifa: Haifa in Hebrew means pretty shore, and is Israel's third largest city
and most important seaport. This city, which is reminiscent of San Francisco
because of its hilly terrain and beautiful scenery, has many sites worth
visiting. The Bahai Shrine and Gardens is the world center to this
religion, and the shrine features extravagant carpets and chandeliers. Israel's
high-tech university, the Technion, is in the upper city, and there are great
beaches in the northern and western are as of this city. Also, be sure to
visit the Mane-Katz Museum, home to hundreds of oil paintings, sculptures and
drawings.
Jericho: Considered oldest and lowest city on earth. First city in Canaan
conquered by Joshua. Jesus visited here (Luke 18:35ff).
Megiddo: Ancient city first mentioned in 15th cent. BCE Egyptian documents.
Important for its strategic location on Via Maris. Rebuilt after return from
Babylonian Exile; abandoned in Hellenistic period.
Netanya: Set in the center of Israel's coast, Netanya overlooks the
Mediterranean Sea. Flights of steps from its finely landscaped promenade lead
down to the beaches. Netanya has a great climate, both summer and winter, and
the Diamond Center schedules free diamond cutting and polishing demonstrations
for visitors.
Jerusalem,Israel's capital, has been the subject of hundreds of volumes,
written about it's magic, mystery, religious significance, and overall special
qualities that make it one of the world's most beautiful and special cities.
Here we can only touch upon some of the more popular tourist sites, though there
are literally hundreds more that we would like to have mentioned. Important
sites dot the landscape of this city, old and new. In the Old City, you will
find the Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem. On certain evenings,
a fascinating Sound and Light show illuminates the walls and reverberates
throughout the area. The Ramparts Walk, along the walls of the old city, affords
visitors unique views of the area. The Western Wall (sometimes called the
Wailing Wall) is a remnant of the outer wall of the Second Temple, and is the
focal point of Jewish visitors. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a very holy
Christian site, and marks the site of Jesus' crucifiction, burial and
resurrection. Holy to Moslems and Jews is the Temple Mount. Visit the Arab
Market, or "soulk", lined with hundreds of stalls, and wonderful bargains on
clothing, pottery, rugs, olive wood carvings, and more are available. The Via
Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow) is believe to be the route taken by Jesus to his
crucifiction site. Near the Old City, Mount Scopus offers great views of the
city and the Judean Desert. For Christians, the Mount of Olives is the site of
Jesus' ascension into Heaven. Jews believe that when the Messiah comes, he will
resurrect the dead who are buried in the cemetary here. The Garden of
Gethsemane is believed to be the site of Jesus' burial. The Church of All
Nations, and Bethay Village are also in this general area.
The New City of Jerusalem is where you'll find Israel's Knesset, or
Parliament. Nearby is the Israel Museum and Billy Rose Sculpture Garden. The
Shrine of the Book houses the Dead Sea Scrolls. Yad Vashem is the monument and
museum honoring the 6,000,000 victims of the Holocaust. The Bible Lands
Museum is a nondenominational international center focusing on the history and
cultures that appear in the Bible. For a break, visit Ben Yehuda Street, the
pedestrial mall that includes cafes, gift shops and restaurants.
We have listed only a few of the literally hundreds of places to visit and
things to do in Jerusalem. We suggest you contact the Israel Information Center
at 1-800-514-1188 for more specific information about this unique and beautiful
city.
Tel Aviv: Tel Aviv is Israel's financial,cultural and entertainment center. The
European flavor of the coffee houses that line Dizengoff Street is typical of
this cosmopolitan city. Some of Israel's finest hotels face one of the world's
best urban beaches. Sunset over the Mediterranean is one of the most moving and
romantic natural events you will ever enjoy. Museums, the symphony and opera
are just some of the varied cultural choices that await the visitor to this
bustling city. Be sure to visit the Museum of the Diaspora near Tel Aviv
University. This museum traces the dispersion of the Jews throughout the world.
The old port of Jaffa is immediately south of Tel Aviv, and has been restored as
an artistic and cultural center. Restaurants to tempt every palate are dotted
throughout the cobble-stoned lanes, and galleries and gift shops provide a
perfect after-dinner diversion.
Qumran: Near the northern shore of the Dead Sea lies the caves at Qumram, where
the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in 1947. Ruins in the area are the subject
for continuing exploration, and most notable are the ritual bath, a potter's
workshop, kitchen, assembly and dining halls, and a cemetary containing 1,200
graves.
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NORTHERN DISTRICT
Nazareth is nestled in the hills of Lower Galilee, and is the childhood home of
Jesus. The Church of Annunciation is centrally located, and is a site that
should not be missed by Christian visitors. Just a few miles outside Nazareth
is Cana, where according to the Gospels, the newly baptized Jesus performed his
first miracle, turning water into wine. Two small churches in Cana commemorate
this event. The city of Beit She'an was rocked by a huge earthquake in the year
747. Today, the ruins are a magnificient monument to the past, and the
ampitheater is now used for performances.
Bet She'an:
Ancient city and important centre throughout history. Named Scythopolis during
Second Temple period. Decapolis city.
Capernaum:
Birthplace of Peter and important city in Jesus' Galilean ministry. Here he
lived, preached and performed miracles (Mark 2:1).
Mt. Tabor:
Here Deborah and Barak commanded armies of Israel. Traditional site of
Transfiguration (Matt. 17:2).
Nazareth: Nestled in the hills of the Lower Galilee overlooking the Valley of
Jezreel, this is the town where Jesus spent his boyhood. Visit the Church of
Annunciation, one of the most revered shrines in the Christian world, and the
largest Church in the Middle East.
Quasi: Here Jesus healed two demon-possessed men . The demons joined a herd of
pigs who rushed down into the Sea of Galilee and drowned (Matt 8:28-33).
Tabgha: Traditional site of multiplication of loaves and fishes (Matt. 14:19).
Tiberias: On the shores of the Sea of Galilee, is home base to many tourists who
visit the area. There are many fine hotels in this city, ranging from deluxe to
tourist-class. It's a good base from which to visit such places as Capernaum,
Tabgha, Ginnosar, Nazareth, Cana, and the Golan Heights. During the evening,
plan to visit one of the fine restaurants in town to sample St. Peter's Fish or
other delicacies. The promenade is replete with shops, eateries, and cafes that
serve the best pastry.
MUSEUMS:
The museums of Israel are a mirror of their country...a land both ancient and
modern, a crossroads of civilizations and a melting pot of a people returning to
its homeland from a hundred countries with different cultures and traditions.
Some of Israel's museums are one of a kind in the world: The Shrine of the
Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are displayed; Yad Vashem, the memorial to
the Holocaust; or the Museum of the Jewish Disapora. There are museums
specializing in glass, coins, prehistoric man, music, flour and bread, or
archaelogy. Modern art and handicrafts are also on display and on sale in city
galleries and in the picturesque artists' villages and colonies. One can
literally spend weeks visiting Israel's varied museums!
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1991:
Designated as Peace Tourism Year. With the great strides made by Israel and her
neighbors in establishing peaceful relationships, then Peace Tourism Year takes
on a special significance. Everybody is invited to visit Israel and feel what
Peace is all about.
1996:
Jerusalem 3000: The celebration of the 3000th anniversary of the founding of
Jerusalem by King David. Many artistic and cultural events will be held throu
ghout the land. From classical music to rock, pop, and gospel concerts, there
will be something for tourists of every age and taste.
1998:
The State of Israel will mark its 50th anniversary with… Celebrations that are
expected to draw a record number of visitors.
2000:
The birth of Jesus will be celebrated in the town of Nazareth. Hundreds of
thousands of Christian visitors are expected to join in the celebration of this
sacred and special event.
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JERUSALEM AREA
Jerusalem, Israel's eternal capital, is important to Jews, Christians, and
Muslims alike. Jerusalem's religious and historic significance and diverse
cultures create travel memories that will be retold for generations. The age-
old holy sites blend with contemporary Jerusalem to create a wonderful tapestry
of time and space. Jerusalem features two distinct areas: The walled Old City,
which houses most of the major religious sites, and the western new city, which
includes downtown, the government complex, and many of the city's residential
neighborhoods. The hundreds of significant religious sites could keep a visitor
fascinated and busy for weeks! For a description of many of these sites, please
click on the city of Jerusalem. Bethelehem, a few miles south of Jerusalem is
the birthplace of Jesus and King David. The Monastary of Martyrs, in the
Jerusalem suburb of Maale Adumim, is a recently unearthed Byzantine monastery,
and is perched on mountains in the Judean Desert.
THE DEAD SEA & MASADA
The Dead Sea, or "Salt Sea" in Hebrew, is the saltiest and most mineral-laden
body of water in the world. Famous for its curative powers, this area is the
lowest point on earth, some 1,320 feet below sea level. Along the shores of the
Dead Sea are many interesting and important sites, including Masada, the
mountain where in the year 73 the Jewish population commited mass suicide rather
than surrender to the Romans. In this area are the Qumram Caves, where the Dead
Sea Scrolls were discovered by a young Bedouin boy in 1947. Ein Gedi is a green
oasis, and Ein Bokek is a health resort in the dry wilderness.
THE GOLAN HEIGHTS AND UPPER GALILEE
In the northeast corner of Israel and east of the Jordan River, the Golan
Heights' western slopes tower over Israel's northernmost villages and towns.
Visitors tour old Syrian battlements such as Nimrod Fortress. Overlooking the
area at almost 10,000 feet is Mount Hermon. This sub-alpine habitat is of
interest to ecotourists and is frequented by Israeli skiers during the winter.…
The upper Galilee is a nature wonderland. Horseback riding, tubing, kayaking,
and even ice-skating are just some of the fun activities to be found in this
diverse area. Major sites of interest include the 3,500 year old city of
Hatzor, with its Canaanite palaces, wells and stables. The Banias area is the
northernmost point of Jesus' Galilean ministry. Safed, a holy city associated
with Jewish mysticism, features an artists' colony, and is a favorite
destination for visitors seeking unusual paintings and sculptures.
Western Galilee
The western part of the Galilee touches the shores of the Mediterranean, thus
giving a choice of some of the country's most beautiful beaches, mild
Mediterranean climate and an abundance of touring possibilities, for varied
interests. The capital of Western Galilee is the town of Nahariya founded by
German Jewish immigrants in 1934, and which soon became one of the most popular
tourist resorts.
CHRISTIAN TRAVEL
According to recent research, 4 out of 5 adults describe themselves as
Christians, and one of three claim to be "born again." This means that the
potential for travel to the Holy Land within the Christian community is
virtually unlimited. With 320,000 Protestant churches and 23,000 Catholic
churches in America, membership exceeds 143,000,000.
Most Christians choose to visit the Holy Land with a group. Christian affinity
groups can be organized through churches, Christian schools, senior citizen
groups, religious broadcasters, etc. There are many things to consider when
putting together a trip for a Christian group. A good first step is to call the
Israel Government Tourist Office. They have developed a special informative
handbook outlining the simple steps to take when planning a tour to the Holy
Land. It also includes a number of colorful maps and brochures detailing
specific information about Israel. The included video presents wonderful and
moving images of the Holy Land, and is very helpful when presented to groups
considering a journey.
These materials are designed to help the Pastor promote the Holy Land travel to
church members and friends. The Israel Government Tourist Office can assist, in
many cases, by providing a speaker or representative to attend the pastor's tour
planning meetings. Please coordinate this with your area IGTO office.
To sum it all up, we can provide you, the agent, with specific information on
the following subjects to help you prepare the pastor for his newly acquired
role as a spiritual leader to the Holy Land.
1. A list of tour operators who have developed a succesful reputation in
travel to Israel.
2. Information and promotional materials about the Holy Land, including
maps, brochures, videos, etc.
3. Brochure blanks (shells) in limited numbers, for overprinting of the
pastor's itinerary. These shells contain color pictures and plenty of
space for the itinerary and other details.
4. Sample letters the pastor can adapt for personalizing the invitation
process and creating the desired response from the potential traveler.
When discussing the various benefits of group travel to Israel, you may wish to
mention the following:
1. One of the exciting developments of the 20th century is the rebirth of
the nation of Israel. To Christians, The Holy Land is where Jesus was
born and reared, where He wrought His miracles, where He was crucified,
buried, and rose again.
2. Thousands of Christian ministers visit Israel annually because they
realize the need in their own ministries to know the Land of the Book.
This enhanced knowledge allows them to be more effective and meaningful
leaders.
3. To walk in the footsteps of Jesus, the Patriarchs, Judges, Prophets, and
Disciples is an inspiring and unique ex perience. And the pastor's
ability to share this experience with his congregation is an even more
enriching deed.
Acre: Sometimes called "Akko", this dramatic and captivating city is one of the
world's oldest known seaports. Like so many of Israel's cities, there is a new
city and an old city which is of particular interest to visitors. One of the
more interesting sites is the subterranean Crusader city. The Crusader hall is
used today for theatre and musical performances. For a spectacular view of
Haifa's Mount Carmel, walk along the walls of this unique city. Other areas of
interest are the Municipal Museum, the citadel, and the Museum of Heroism.
Safed: This mystical holy city features a cool climate, and is a favorite summer
get-away destination for Israelis. The artists' colony is lined with winding
lanes and restored homes that retain the flavor of its history. Visitors to the
Safed Candles Factory can see how candles were made hundreds of years ago.
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VINEYARDS & WINERIES
Vineyards and wineries have cropped up throughout Israel, particularly in the
Carmel, Golan and Galilee regions.
There are more than 21 in Israel, ranging from the Carmel cooperative to tiny
wineries that dot the map. The IGTO can provide you with the names and phone
numbers of several that offer tours.
RESORTSR
Israel boasts some of the world's finest resorts, all of which cater to nearly
every whim of the visitor ready for relaxation. The top deluxe properties
usually have the most complete facilities, though it is possible to relax in
Israel on a budget as well. Just book clients in a tourist or first class hotel
near one of Israel's many fine beaches. Some cities where this is possible are
Tel Aviv, Nahariya, Netanya and Eilat. Book a client at one of Jerusalem's
deluxe hotels for a little R & R, and in addition to getting away from it all,
he can get away to it all if he wishes, because Jerusalem offers some of the
most fascinating sites of any city anywhere.
ENVIORNMENT
Israel is an environment-conscious destination. The development of the
country's nature reserves is of paramount importance. Today, there are several
nature reserves in this compact country; the total area of recognized reserves
is more than 750,000 acres. Most reserves have hiking paths and designated
picnic areas. Overnight stays are permitted only at certain sites, and entrance
fees are required in most of the reserves.
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ISRAEL'S CAPITOL JERUSALEM:
Jerusalem, Israel's capital, has been the subject of hundreds of volumes,
written about it's magic, mystery, religious significance, and overall special
qualities that make it one of the world's most beautiful and special cities.
Here we can only touch upon some of the more popular tourist sites, though there
are literally hundreds more that we would like to have mentioned. Important
sites dot the landscape of this city, old and new. In the Old City, you will
find the Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem. On certain evenings,
a fascinating Sound and Light show illuminates the walls and reverberates
throughout the area. The Ramparts Walk, along the walls of the old city, affords
visitors unique views of the area. The Western Wall (sometimes called the
Wailing Wall) is a remnant of the outer wall of the Second Temple, and is the
focal point of Jewish visitors. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a very holy
Christian site, and marks the site of Jesus' crucifiction, burial and
resurrection. Holy to Moslems and Jews is the Temple Mount.
Visit the Arab Market, or "soulk", lined with hundreds of stalls, and wonderful
bargains on clothing, pottery, rugs, olive wood carvings, and more are
available. The Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow) is believe to be the route taken by
Jesus to his crucifiction site.
Near the Old City, Mount Scopus offers great views of the city and the Judean
Desert. For Christians, the Mount of Olives is the site of Jesus' ascension into
Heaven. Jews believe that when the Messiah comes, he will resurrect the dead who
are buried in the cemetary here. The Garden of Gethsemane is believed to be the
site of Jesus' burial. The Church of All Nations, and Bethay Village are also in
this general area.
The New City of Jerusalem is where you'll find Israel's Knesset, or Parliament.
Nearby is the Israel Museum and Billy Rose Sculpture Garden. The Shrine of the
Book houses the Dead Sea Scrolls. Yad Vashem is the monument and museum
honoring the 6,000,000 victims of the Holocaust. The Bible Lands Museum is a
nondenominational international center focusing on the history and cultures that
appear in the Bible. For a break, visit Ben Yehuda Street, the pedestrial mall
that includes cafes, gift shops and restaurants.
We have listed only a few of the literally hundreds of places to visit and
things to do in Jer usalem. We suggest you contact the Israel Information
Center at 1-800-514-1188 for more specific information about this unique and
beautiful city.
SEA OF GALILEE:
13 miles long and 7 miles wide, the Sea of Galilee is a tranquil jewel
surrounded by brown and purple mountains. The Sea of Galilee is also called the
Sea of Tiberias and Lake Kineret. The immediate region surrounding the lake
includes many notable sites of interest to Christian visitors.
Among them; Capernaum, the Mount of Beatitudes, Tabgha, and the 2,000 year
old boat at Ginosar. For a refreshing change of pace, take a dip in the
invigorating mineral waters of the spa, located near the ancient site of the
second largest spa in the Roman Empire. During the evening hours, the cafes and
restaurants at Tiberias come alive with music and merriment. Here's something
unusual for the kids...an alligator park is nearby as well!
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Why Israel?
A. Benefits of a Visit to Israel
1. Diversity of options --from two center holidays such as Israel and Europe and Egypt to a variety of fly/drive packages and special interest tours and conventions, Israel offers many options for your clients.
2. Spiritual and Emotional Heritage --Especially in the South, Israel is a part of many people's lives inasmuch as it is the land of the Bible. Almost half of the population in the Southern U.S. profess to be born again Christians and have a natural affinity for Israel.
3. Tourist Attractions -- Israel has a highly developed tourism infastructure and a diversified and cosmopolitan mixture of people, food, languages and cultures.
4. Distinctive Destination -- Israel offers one-of-a-kind vacation experiences and bountiful beauty and stunning panoramic contrasts.
5. Comfortable Weather Conditions -- Israel has a short rainy season (December - January) and a short hot season (July-August); the rest of the year is beautiful and mild.
Here we are in Jerusalem after spending three days in Safed. For those of you who are not familiar with Israel, Safed (or Tsfat) is one of Judaism's four holy cities, often called the mystical city because of the famous Kabbalists who lived there in the 16th and 17th Centuries. The other three holy cities are, of course, Jerusalem, Hebron, where the Patriarchs are buried, and Tiberias, cite of the famous rabbinic academies of the Roman era. During our stay in Safed one of our conversations was with a very Hassidic artist and shopowner, a secular Jew in his youth who hails from France, and who spent his hippie years in the 1960's living in New York's East Village. He said of the four cities that Jerusalem represents fire, Hebron earth, Tiberias water, and Safed air. That is certainly appropriate for Safed. It is on the top of a mountain in the Galilee, the northern part of Israel.
The drive from the airport in Tel Aviv to Safed in our rental car took 2 1/2 hours. It was uneventful except for our complaints about stretches of too much traffic. In that short drive, we saw a typically varied Israeli landscape; the high rises of Tel Aviv, glimpses of the Mediterranean, mountains, valleys, and desert canyons; vineyards, forests of recent vintage, and arid lands; and Jewish and Arab towns off the road. Safed itself has not lost the charm it had for us two years ago. The feeling on the streets was very relaxed as Safed has not directly been the sight of any of the current conflict. We arrived Friday afternoon as the city was shutting down for Shabbos (the Sabbath). The quiet in a place like Safed or Jerusalem on Shabbos is magical. Saturday we attended Shabbos services at the Conservative synagogue, led by an elderly woman who was moving to Jerusalem the following week. People at the synagogue were very happy to see visitors from the U.S., expressing their sadness at seeing so few visitors in recent months because of the conflict. We were made to feel very much at home. At the end of Shabbos on Saturday evening, the town sprang to life with people - religious and non-religious out all over and the tables at sidewalk cafes full. Sunday we wandered around town, visiting the famous old synagogues - the Ari Ashkenazic, the Caro, and the Abuhav, the most beautiful - and going in and out of shops. The most noticeable difference from two years ago was the paucity of tourists. A number of merchants talked with us about the difficult times and we often felt badly about not buying anything, seeing how they were hurting. However, one place where we did make a purchase was at a shop named Camus. Yes, the owner is from the family of the famous French-Algerian writer, Albert Camus.
Monday, we left Safed, making two stops on the way to Jerusalem. One was Meron, about 15 minutes from Safed. It is a pilgrimage sight for Orthodox Jews from around the world, the burial place of the great Talmudic Rabbis Hillel and Shammai and Simeon bar Yochai. Men and women pray around the clock at the Shimon's tomb and the feeling there is very intense. He is reputed to be the author of the Zohar, the most famous work of Kabbalah. He resisted Roman rule, and there being a death decree on his head, according to tradition, he hid and studied in a cave for 13 years with his son, until the death decree was lifted. Our second stop was Tiberias, where we stopped for a lunch of falafel and hummus, and then visited the tomb of Moses Maimonides, the great medieval Jewish philosopher and physician.
The first thing we did in Jerusalem after checking into our hotel and dropping off the rent car was visit the Kotel (the Western Wall of the Temple. Although we again noticed how many fewer people were on the streets of the Jewish quarter in the old city, we arrived at the Kotel only to see hundreds of men and women engaged in intense prayer. As most of you know, there are separate sections for men and women at the Kotel, and the women's section is smaller. Jeanette could not even get to the Wall itself, so crowded was the women's section, Richard was able to do so, and he made his prayer for peace. On the way back to our hotel, we decided to stop for dinner at a restaurant we had enjoyed two years before. It is located at the end of Jaffa Road, in the new city but near the walls of the old city. The area around it was very quiet and at first we thought it might be closed. The outdoor tables were no longer there but the restaurant still is in operation, though with only a few patrons, just barely. As we finished dinner the waiter told us that indeed they might have to throw in the towel. However, as we walked back to our hotel in the hear of the new city, it was reassuring even after 10 PM to begin seeing a fair number of people, particularly on Ben Yehuda Street, sitting along the pedestrian mall and at outdoor cafes and restaurants. Yes, it is exciting to be back in Jerusalem, one of those very special places on this precious planet of ours. More to come.