'And Joshua passed on from Libnah, and all Israel with him, to Lachish, and encamped against it, and fought against it. And G-d delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel...
'And Ben Haddad listened to king Asa, and he sent the captains of his armies against the cities of Israel, and he struck Ijon and Dan and Abel-Beth Maachah and all Kinereth with all the land of Naftali' (1 Kings 15:20)
'Pharaoh, King of Egypt, had come up and conquered Gezer and burnt it in fire, and killed the Canaanite who lived in the city. He gave it as a wedding present to his daughter, Solomon’s wife, and Solomon then build up Gezer'
'For the children of Naphtali… Migdal-el, Horem, and Beth-‘anath and Beth-shemesh; nineteen cities with their villages' (Joshua 19: 32-38)
Due to the completion of Israel's longest suspension bridge over the biblical Ben-Hinnom Valley, more pilgrims and pedestrians will be able to reach holy sites.
On your next trip to Israel, if you are looking to sample great wine, enjoy beautiful nature, and see incredible archaeology, the Yatir forest is waiting for you!
'The king took counsel and made two golden calves, and he said to them, saying, “It is far for you to go up to Jerusalem; here are your gods, O Israel, that have brought you up from the land of Egypt.' (1 Kings 12-30)
This rarely visited site has many well- preserved ruins of most of the empires that controlled Israel over its 4,000 years!
'And Abram heard that his kinsman had been taken captive, and he armed his trained men, those born in his house, three hundred and eighteen, and he pursued [them] until Dan.' (Genesis: 14:14)
'Behold… a holy man of God, who passes by us regularly. Let us make a small walled upper chamber, and place there for him a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp; and it will be that when he comes to us, he will turn into there.'
There is so much to learn about Jerusalem - past and present.
With a fascinating history, Biblical ruins and stunning scenery, Gath offers something for everyone.
Indeed, on Jerusalem Day - Yom Yerushalayim - Israelis celebrate the liberation of the Holy City in 1967.
Each year on Lag B’omer, over 250,000 people converge on the sleepy town of Meron in northern Israel. What is it that attracts so many people to Meron?
'And Solomon built Gezer and the lower Beth-horon. And Baalath and Tadmor in the desert in the land' (1 Kings: 9: 17-18)
When living in Israel, one gets so accustomed to seeing biblical sites at every turn that you can almost start taking it for granted. Some are well known, others less so.
'Gather the sons of Benjamin from the midst of Jerusalem, and in Tekoa sound the shofar, and over Beth-hakerem raise a standard, for evil is visible from the north and a great calamity' (Jeremiah 6:1)
According to Jewish sources, these underground hot springs (17 in all) first came about due to the flood of Noah.
'And all these kings met together, they came and camped together at the waters of Merom, to fight with Israel '(Joshua 11: 5)
'And the border circled from the top of the mountain to the fountain of the Mei (water of) Neftoach, and went out to the cities of Mount Ephron; and the border circled to Baalah, which is Kirjath-jearim' (Joshua 15:9)
Then Joshua spoke to the Lord on the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, 'Sun, stand still upon Gibeon, and Moon in the valley of Ayalon.'
According to Jewish tradition, Mashiach will enter the city via the Mercy Gate and rebuild the Temple.
'This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families…Halhul, Beth-zur, and Gedor.' (Joshua 15:20-58)
'And the cities of the tribe of the children of Benjamin according to their families, were … Mizpeh, and Chephirah, and Motza.' (Joshua 18:21-26)
'On the third day, Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the place from afar' (Genesis 22:4)
'And he, Hezekiah, stopped up the source of the waters of the upper Gihon, and he led them straight down on the west to the City of David' (2 Chronicles 32:30)
Climbing to the top of the roof of the former crusader church, there are several locations to view where many exciting Biblical stories took place.
When speaking of spectacular biblical sites in Jordan that can be experienced from Israel, the Arnon River is one key site that is often overlooked.
According to tradition, Qasr El Yehud on the Jordan River is the exact spot where Joshua and the Children of Israel entered the holy land.
On a clear day, many sites of significance are visible from here, including Jerusalem, Amman, Jericho, the Dead Sea , Biblical Mount Nebo and more.
Certain Biblical sites in Jordan are visible from Israel and can be experienced without leaving the Jewish state!
These amazing mosaics remain in mint condition and testify to the Jewish community's wealth.
Why were the Romans so shocked by the Jews rebuilding Hebron?
Wars with the Assyrians and Babylonians should've ended Jewish ties to Hebron and the Holy Land, but God had other plans.
Hebron is one of the places in Israel that has the deepest meaning to me.
During the First Temple period, Jerusalem was the only Israelite city larger than Lachish.
The location of a major Biblical battle, the Hula Valley is now known for amazing birdwatching.
Zorah was the hometown of Samson, the strongest man who ever lived.
'And I shall draw to you, to the brook Kishon, Sisera, the chieftain of Jabin’s army, with his chariots and his multitude; and I will give him into your hands' (Judges 4:7)
Mount Gilboa is a scenic mountain, offering many great hiking trails. Half of the mountain is barren as a result of King David’s curse (2 Samuel 1:21).
This biblical site near Afula is an opportune place to pray for children.
If you are looking to sample great wine, enjoy beautiful nature, and see incredible archeology, the Yatir forest is waiting for you!
The Gate of Mercy, a.k.a the Shushan and Eastern Gate, is where the Messiah will enter Jerusalem and redeem Israel.
Carmel mountains boast Israel's best hiking and was where Elijah dramatically defeated the false prophets of Baal.
Givat Yonah, which overlooks the Ashdod Port, is believed by some to be the burial place of Jonah the prophet.
'And the cities of the tribe of the children of Benjamin according to their families, were...Mizpeh, and Chephirah, and Motza.' -- Joshua 18:21-26
Lifta's central location offers Biblical heritage, a rich history, and great swimming.
Why was Abraham so insistent that Sarah be buried in this specific cave?
Tel Aphek bears witness to incredible drama involving the Ark of the Covenant, Alexander the Great and the Jewish Revolt against Rome.
David's epic battle in Tel Azekah propelled his path to kingship.
Visitors to this historic wonder are treated to an abundance of stunning Biblical archeology.
Breathtaking views, rich history and unique archeology make Maale Adumim a must-see stop.
Hazor was the most powerful Canaanite city state when Joshua conquered the Holy Land.
Beersheva's mix of biblical history and digital prowess makes it Israel's most underrated city for tourism.
The story of Beit Shemesh did not begin in modern times, but in the Bible.
Archaeological evidence shows that the barren, salty Mt. Sodom was fertile up until the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Few Israeli mapping experts and tour guides even know of the existence of Tel Kedesh.
This wall is a living witness to one of history’s greatest miracles.
Thanks to uniquely fertile conditions, the produce of Ginosar matures faster.
Site of King Saul's palace offers some of Israel's most stunning panoramic views.
Many amazing archeological finds in 2021 dramatically changed our understanding of Israel’s rich history.
Many of last year’s incredible finds revolutionized our understanding of Israel’s rich past
Ancient Migdal, by the Galilee, is as beautiful as it is historic.
Experience Biblical and modern Israeli history at Ramat Rachel, near Jerusalem.
Visit a fortified settlement built by King Solomon.
Many of the most beautiful animals mentioned in the Bible can still be seen in Israel today!
Today we are visiting a one-of-a kind World Heritage site, biblical Maresha and ancient Beit Guvrin.
Some of the remarkable ruins are more than 3,000 years old!
It was in this area where one of the most dramatic biblical events took place.
Although one of the most climatic and consequential events in the Bible took place here, few tourists ever visit.
Today the site flourishes, with a full-time Kollel, a synagogue and even a hospitality corner with hot drinks and snacks!
Many have wondered how this city was able to flourish for millenia, well before the days of piping water from afar.
According to tradition, this is the exact spot where Joshua and the Children of Israel entered the Holy Land.
'And it will be, when the Lord, your God, will bring you to the land to which you come, to possess it, that you shall place those blessing upon Mount Gerizim, and those cursing upon Mount Ebal (Deuteronomy 11:29)'
For thousands of years, from Biblical times until fairly recently, Israel has hosted some of the most exotic animals in the world, worthy of any safari!
'Jacob departed from Beer-Sheba and (using this exact road) went toward Haran.' (Genesis 28:10)
Hebron is where it all began, and with this in mind, let’s go explore the city.
'And the bones of Joseph, which the children of Israel had brought up out of Egypt, they buried in Shechem, in the parcel of ground which Jacob bought from the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem'
'And the word of the Lord came to me a second time, saying: Take the girdle that you bought and rise, go to Prat (Spring) and hide it there in the cleft of a rock (Jeremiah 13.3)'
The earth covering the courtyard contained some large building stones, some of which are elaborate architectural elements associated with the 2nd Temple period.
Tzfat, one of Judaism's four holy cities, has something for everyone!
Peki'in, a primarily Druze town in northern Israel, has a significant, albeit neglected, connection to the Lag B'Omer celebrations.
The Fatah party of Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas uses its leader's own words to call for an escalation in terror.
Tiberias, a lively, picturesque city on the Sea of Galilee, also boasts a wealth of Jewish history and spirituality.
Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists a year.
Israel is such a tiny country, but there is so much to see and do!
Two friends take a trip that ties historic Israel to the modern state and shows that great adventures await the young at heart!
Discover the secrets of Hebron - the birthplace of the Jewish people - and watch some incredible footage that has never been seen before!
This video focuses on the beautiful, mystical city of Safed in the Upper Galilee in northern Israel.
What is one of the most interesting sites in Jerusalem that is also comfortable for all weather, all ages and walking abilities? The Israel Museum!
Masada is considered one of the “must-see” sites in Israel. Why?
On a tiny hilltop in the middle of the Elah Valley, near the city of Beit Shemesh, an ancient city was uncovered, with features and details that seem to match the biblical account of the region. Whether this discovery provides physical evidence of the existence of a Davidic stronghold in the Elah Valley is the... Read more »
Located at the northern tip of the Red Sea, Eilat, Israel's southernmost city, is a first-class tourist destination.
The third small neighborhood built outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem was called Nahalat Shiva (meaning the inheritance of the seven), named because seven families originally got together and decided to buy property and build a neighborhood there.
The annual three-week mourning period for the destruction of the Holy Temples is an especially appropriate time to visit places connected to the Holy Temple.
Jerusalem is likely to have more holy, meaningful sites per square meter than any other place. Even places that seem simply recreational have deeper meaning.
Despite years of war and conflict in the region, Israel's north has a wealth of scenic nature trails and the Nahal Ilyon Nature Reserve in the town of Metulla is no exception.
Below the town of Efrat is a 2,000-year-old aqueduct, the Biyar, which would bring natural spring water to collecting pools south of Bethlehem and to Jerusalem.
A visit to Yad Vashem is emotionally charged, as is a visit to Mount Herzl cemetery, but somehow, the Connecting Path helps us channel our emotions in a hopeful direction.
With over 18,000 rockets launched from Gaza by Hamas since Israel left the Strip in 2005, the Gush Katif Museum is important to see.
When we visit places mentioned in the Bible, we understand the events in a much more profound way. We see the landscape, flora and fauna, which in many cases have not changed.
King David writes, “The Mountains surround Jerusalem, just as God surrounds His people” (Psalms 125), and it seems likely that the Jewish monarch was looking at the Mount of Olives as he wrote this.
Understanding the synagogues and yeshivot (study halls) of the Old City and their history is a fascinating way to measure the heartbeat throughout the generations.
Include Ein Gedi, a breathtaking oasis in the desert, in your next trip to Israel to explore many secrets, biblical sources and incredible wildlife and views.
King David's Tomb may or may not contain the remains of the great Jewish monarch, but the site was nevertheless made holy by the prayers and tears Jews who have visited for hundreds of years.
Tzfat is literally covered in spirituality. A tour of the city would be a wonderful addition to any visit to the Galilee.
Excavations in Netivot revealed the remains of a late-Byzantine-period village, including a workshop, various buildings and two wine presses.
In Nachlaot, you'll get a sense of what Jerusalem was like in the late 1800s as well as a flavor of what is new and developing.
While it is not a highly visited gate, it has a rich history and, according to Jewish tradition, will play a key role in the future as well
In 1967, Israel successfully reunited Jerusalem, the eternal capital of the Jewish people, and once again, Jaffa Gate was in Jewish hands along with the other gates of the Old City.
Stop along the way at national parks, one of Israel's best beaches, archaeological sites, an artist's village, a Druze community, museums and a chocolate factory.
The ammunition plant was on a kibbutz that to the average observer was no more than a collective farm. Almost 30 feet below ground, however, was another world.
The Second Temple model at the Israel Museum is a fascinating creation well worth seeing. It is situated near the Knesset, the Supreme Court, the Bible Lands Museum and other interesting sites.
The enchanting site of Ein Gedi offers numerous treasures such as its water sources and wonderful nature walks.
Whether the summit of Mount Zion is the actual burial place of King David or was used for his descendants, the area nevertheless became sanctified.
While the Romans may have had the upper hand nearly 2,000 years ago and exiled the Jewish people, all that remains of that civilization in the Old City is a road.
In the time of King Solomon, Beit Shemesh was a very wealthy city. It was chosen as one of the cities to provide King Solomon with food for one month out of the year.
Compared to other official residences of national leaders, such as the White House, it is extremely understated. This is no accident.
Less known than Masada but with a similar story, the ancient Jewish city of Gamla, located in the Golan, was one of the first communities to fall to the Romans.
The Jewish connection to Gush Etzion is so deep, it is no wonder that in the 20th century numerous attempts were made to resettle the area.
By the end of 1949 and throughout the Jordanian occupation of the site, Arab residents uprooted tombstones and plowed the land. Over 38,000 tombstones were damaged
Judea is an area referred to as the West Bank, with the reference point being Jordan in an attempt to diminish the Jewish historical and biblical claim.
It is no exaggeration to say that the fighters at Kibbutz Yad Mordechai played a critical role in saving the newly born modern State of Israel from annihilation.
In 1913, at the 11th World Zionist Congress, a decision was made to establish a University in Jerusalem whose language of instruction would be Hebrew.
The Beit Guvrin cave network and archaeological site in the Judean Lowlands is eighth on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Would you be willing to put your own children at risk to save a Jew? Not so simple. On an individual level it is very difficult to answer this question.
Tel Aviv is a colorful city and, as Israel’s second largest, adds a wonderful dimension to the ongoing story of the Jewish people.
All of the buildings, including the windmill, of Mishkenot Sha’ananim remain standing today. It is a grand testimony to the growth and restoration of Jerusalem.
Israel's parliament is leading the way towards a cleaner global environment after installing the largest solar field on any government building worldwide - while promoting other projects that highlight energy efficiency.
Shiloh never had grand palaces, nor is it surrounded by massive walls. Yet it served as one of the most important spiritual and political centers for nearly 400 years.
If we don’t believe in the promise, are we really any different than anyone else? Last week I guided a family from Miami through Hebron. I have to admit that I was impressed when a week before their arrival in Israel, they called me to arrange a visit for them to that holy city. They... Read more »
Although the Palestinians have resisted cooperating with Israel over connecting the new Palestinian city of Rawabi to the national water grid, Israel announced last week that it approved the move anyway.
Where in Israel can you go bowling, ice skating, swimming, play squash, basketball and ping pong or just enjoy a hot spa (not to mention the shooting range and 7D movie theater)?
Most Hashomer fighters lived to see the reality of Jewish defense, and almost all witnessed the establishment of the State of Israel.
Excavations at Zippori in the north have proven to be among the most exciting in all of Israel, offering a glimpse into an ancient cosmopolitan city.
One of the most interesting and exciting archaeological projects under way in the Golan Heights is taking place at the synagogue of Umm al Kanatir.
Between 1948 and 1967, there were no civilians living on the Golan Heights, which was under Syrian control. Under Israeli administration, the area has come to life.
Tel Dan has a bit of everything—archaeology, history, lots of water, lush greenery, biblical sites, battle sites from recent Israeli wars and amazing views.
Listening to the intense crashing of the sea water against the walls of the grottoes, I appreciate the natural phenomenon chosen by King David to bring us closer to God.
Explore Israel's past, present and future and deepen your connection to the People, Country and Land of Israel. The 'Israel Course' is an amazing 7-part film series you need to watch...
The ancient city of Shiloh in Samaria was the location of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) for 369 years. Today it is a modern Jewish community and home to 2,500 people.
Recent archaeological discoveries provide further details on King David's life in the Land of Israel. (Not that we were doubting it...)
No visit to the Ramon Crater would be complete without a visit to the Ein Sahoronim stream in the central Negev desert.
Past meets the present, ancient is blended with the modern, at this former center of power - Cesarea.
It is one strip of road, which serves as a timeline for ancient Israeli history.
Archaeologists recently exposed a 1,900-year-old mikvah (ritual bath) near the Ha-Ela Junction, on the road to Jerusalem not far from Beit Shemesh.
Jerusalem 360 is the largest panoramic project ever launched in Israel. It features over 100 locations in Jerusalem that you can tour from the comfort of your home, office or bed!
This is the story of a family that sacrificed everything to strike roots in their homeland in Israel.
A visit to the Beit El Winery in the biblical heartland of the Land of Israel is a unique and inspiring experience. Hugely popular American hasidic musical entertainer Avraham Fried recently took advantage of the opportunity.
Rishon LeZion is the first agricultural town in Israel, established by the earliest Zionist pioneers. Meet the town where it all happeed first.
According to Jewish tradition, many major historical events took place on the Temple Mount. It was where the creation of the world began.
An ancient yet modern city, Tekoa is a place where Jews of diverse backgrounds live in harmony among the Judean Hills.
In honor of Jerusalem Day, this week’s “Places of Israel” feature highlights Jerusalem, the capital city of the State of Israel.
This ancient city is known as 'the Masada of the North' and is remembered for the catastrophic defeat suffered by Jewish rebels against the Romans.
Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv's oldest neighborhood, will delight you with its breathtaking buildings, elegant alleyways and hipster inhabitants.
Beit She'an, located in the Jordan Valley some 20 miles south of the Sea of Galilee, houses some of Israel's most spectacular archaeological finds.
Filmed throughout Israel, this gorgeous video packs 24 hours' worth of recording of amazing sites of Israel into about two minutes.
Should time and circumstance conspire to bring you to Jerusalem, do take a quick detour into the city’s hip, happening, pulsating Nachlaot neighborhood.
Safed (Tzfat, in Hebrew), internationally known as the city of Kabbalah, is a beautiful town in northern Israel that radiates spirituality.
The beautiful, lively city of Netanya - known for its stunning beaches and bustling promenades - is one of Israel's most popular tourist resorts.
Someone strapped a Go-Pro camera to a bicycle helmet and rode through the Holy City of Jerusalem. The trip takes you through Jerusalem's Mahane Yehuda market and down to the Old City. This is a great way to get a feel for the city without actually being there.
Located in southern Israel, Arad is a majestic setting for hiking and exploring the desert regions of Israel south of Jerusalem.
Kfar Tapuach - Hebrew for "Village of Apples" - is situated in the beautiful Samarian hills near the archaeological site of the biblical Kfar Tapuach, which appears in the Book of Joshua (Chapter 12) as one of the first 31 cities conquered by Joshua Bin-Nun and the Children of Israel when they entered the Holy Land.
With the current US push for a peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, there has been much discussion in past weeks on the strategic importance of the Jordan Valley and the future of the Jewish communities there. Likewise, with the passing of legendary warrior Ariel Sharon - who, as prime minister, evacuated the Jewish communities of Gaza in 2005 - many were reminded of the thriving agricultural communities that were destroyed when Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza; since then, missiles fired from Hamas have been raining down on southern Israel. There were many similarities between the Jewish communities of Gaza and the Jordan Valley, where farmers met outstanding success notwithstanding poor agricultural conditions. Thus United with Israel has chosen the Jordan Valley as this week's featured place.
Nahariya is a charming seaside city in northern Israel with beautiful surrounding mountains and a quaint main street filled with shops, restaurants, cafes and tourists.
The northern, mid-sized Israeli city of Tiberias, with a population of roughly 50,000, is a striking combination of the ancient and modern worlds.
Karmiel (also spelled Carmiel) – situated on the Acre-Safed road in the heart of the Beit Kerem Valley, a region on the north side of the Lower Galilee – has been awarded five stars in an Israeli contest for Israel’s most beautiful city.
Since United with Israel recently visited the Chatmar Military Base near Shechem, this week’s focus is on that intrinsically Jewish city and the nearby settlement of Elon Moreh.
Modi’in, now a thriving city of 83,000 and fast-growing, is often referred to as the “Land of the Maccabees.”
Ma’ale Adumim, established by 23 families and six individuals in 1975 on the second night of Hanukkah, is a beautiful, modern city in Judea that lies along the ancient route from Jerusalem to the Jordan Valley.
Hebron hosts the oldest Jewish community in the world and is the second holiest city in the Jewish religion after Jerusalem.
Until you come to see it in person, enjoy Jerusalem’s Botanical Garden virtually via this video! Please SHARE with your friends and family! Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too! Now more than... Read more »
Safed, the mystical city located in the mountains of Northern Israel, is considered one of the four Holy cities according to Judaism and is filled with Jewish history from the Second Temple period to the present.
The Jewish history of Haifa extends from the present day back thousands of years to Israel's ancient past.
The Negev Desert is rich in Jewish history and is legally recognized by the international community as part of the State of Israel, despite this the Palestinian Authority has labeled the Negev as a settlement.
Throughout ancient and modern history, the Jewish people have maintained a physical and spiritual attachment to Rachel’s Tomb.
According to a poll conducted by the Wall Street Journal and Citigroup, in cooperation with The Urban Land Institute, Tel Aviv is the second most innovative city in the entire planet. While Medellin, Columbia is number one, Tel Aviv is ranked higher than New York City, London, Copenhagen, Singapore, Hong Kong, Berlin, etc. The cities were selected based on their environmental friendliness, vibrant cultural life, economic climate, progress potential, affluence, educational level, promotion of technology and research, and their infrastructure.
A major part of Israel is the highly strategic and historically significant area known as the Golan Heights. Israel annexed the area during a war with Syria in 1981, yet the Israel’s rightful possession of this land is still not fully acknowledged by the international community.
The Lone Tree, a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity, in many ways embodies the spirit of the Israeli people and the heart of Gush Etzion.
According to the Israeli historian Benny Morris, in ancient times, “The core of the Jewish state was the hill country of Judea, Samaria, and Galilee.” Areas in mainland Israel such as Caesarea, Jaffa, and Ashkelon were centers of paganism in the Hellenistic and Roman periods and did not make up the heart of biblical Israel. Yet despite these historical facts, too many Jews support relinquishing Israeli control over Judea & Samaria, even though the area is richer in Jewish history than Arab history.
Tel (mound) Beit Shemesh covers about 7 acres of a low hill, near the modern town of Beit Shemesh, some 20 km. west of Jerusalem. It overlooks the Sorek Valley, which widens here into a fertile valley.
One of Israel’s earliest settlements is where the ancient art of wine-making was revitalized in the 19th century.
Ask people what was the first Jewish settlement in modern Israel, and most will say Petah Tikva. However, three months before Petah Tikva was founded in 1878, eighteen religious Jews from Safed embarked on a Zionist farming enterprise which formed the basis for what is now the village of Rosh Pina .