Unique Sites of Israel Blog

BREAKING: Digs Unearth Inscription with Name of Familiar Biblical Prophet!

Jerubbaal, also known as Gideon, played an important role in the Book of Judges!

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

**The 3100-year-old inscription was written on a jug, in ink, using ancient Canaanite letters.**

Even in a country such as Israel, where archeologically significant finds are common, ancient inscriptions from the time of the biblical Judges are exceedingly rare. Recent excavations however, at Khirbet Ar-Ra’i (an ancient site in the Judean lowlands) have unearthed a clearly legible name. While that alone is truly momentous, the fact that the name belongs to an important Biblical hero (and prophet) is making international headlines!

**Archeologists unearthing a biblical jar from the times of judges at Khirbat er-Rai’i.**

The name on the jar is “Jerubbaal”, another name for the Biblical judge Gideon (it was common for ancient Israelites to have more than one name) who led the Israelites for 40 years and gave them quiet from their enemies (see Judges 7:1 and 8:28). Gideon’s reign was one of the most fascinating in Israeli history! Prior to his epic rise to rulership, the Jewish people were oppressed for 7 years by the Midianites and Amalekites, who severely impoverished them. The people cried out to G-d for salvation, who responded by sending an angel to Gideon, requesting that he take charge and lead his people. Gideon was surprised that he was chosen because although he was a physically strong and pious person, he was an unknown personality, and the youngest child from the poorest family of his Tribe of Menasseh (see Judges 6: 15). When Gideon asked for a sign, G-d told him to offer a sacrifice on an altar, which was then consumed by a fire from heaven. This indicated that he was indeed chosen for the job!

Map of Ancient Midian (today encompassing Northern Saudi Arabia and the very southern tip of Jordan). This territory is actually visible from Eilat. For 7 years, the Midians oppressed and impoverished the Israelites.

At first, Gideon gathered 22,000 fighters but G-d said that this was too many troops, and he should send some home. Why would G-d tell Gideon to trim his forces, when intuitively the opposite should have happened? Because G-d wanted His people not to rely on their own strength but to rely on Him alone. When only 10,000 troops remained, G-d once again told him that was too much. G-d then asked Gideon to bring his troops to the Ein-Harod spring to drink, where he would conduct a water test. Whomever bent down on his knees to drink would be sent home (according to Jewish sources this was because those who kneeled did so because they were accustomed to bowing down to idols. Since this victory was going to be gained miraculously, a high level of spirituality was required). After the test only 300 remained, and they defeated the combined, massive force of Midianites and Amalekites, thus bringing 40 years of quiet to the Jewish people.

**The spring at Ein-Harod where Gideon conducted the water test.**

The biggest question facing archeologists is whether “Jerubbaal” in the inscription is indeed that of Gideon. Obviously, no one can say with absolute certainty, but archeologists seem convinced that it is a very distinct possibility. Except for in the Bible, “Jerubbaal” has never been found anywhere until this discovery, suggesting that it was an uncommon name. It is also dated from around the time of Judges when Gideon led Israel.

**Aerial shot of the excavation site where this special inscription was found.**

Archeologists say that even if this name is not directly referring to the famous prophet, it may still be connected with him indirectly. It was (and is) common practice for observant Jews to name their children after Torah leaders like Gideon. This jar may have belonged to “Jerubbaal”, a man named after the Biblical warrior. Either way, archeologists are considering this inscription to be a once in a lifetime find!

Nosson Shulman is a journalist and Licensed Tour Guide in Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video series which brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here. To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel, click here.

WOW: Massive Second Temple Era Building Discovered Intact Underground!

This luxurious building, once used to host VIP visitors to the Temple, will soon be open to tourists!

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

**The new route that visitors will take to visit this ancient, well preserved wonder.**

A massive discovery from Jerusalem’s Second Temple Period (also known as the Early Roman Period) has been dug up and revealed to the public, and everyone is excited! While archeological findings from different eras are common in the entire country (Israel is actually one huge archeological site where if you dig anywhere, you are likely to find something ancient), finding complete rooms, still intact from 2000 years ago is extremely rare. However, archeologists digging under Jerusalem’s Muslim Quarter have found two luxurious rooms, connected by a magnificent chamber with an elaborate water fountain.

One of the rooms recently uncovered was likely used as a banquet hall for VIP visitors to the Holy Temple around 2000 years ago.

According to archeologists the building was built between 20-30 CE, on the main Jerusalem road that led to the Temple Mount. Due to the size of the room, splendor of the building and location (only 25 meters from the Western (Wailing) Wall) archeologists believe this building was used to host important dignitaries, VIPs from abroad and the local elite before they ascended to the Temple.

**Journalists being given a tour of the grand Banquet Hall. Very soon, you will also be able to visit here on your next trip to Israel!**

In between the two grand rooms, was a beautiful hallway with an elaborate fountain. Lead pipes brought in the fresh water that gushed out of Corinthian capitals attached to the wall.

Part of the fountain in the hall which connected the two main rooms. Water gushed out of Corinthian capitals such as the one in the picture. This was meant to impress the VIPs who visited the building.

Inside the Banquet room, fancy wooden sofas would have lined the walls where guests would dine (for Roman Nobility, reclining on a comfortable couch to eat was today’s equivalent of eating a fancy meal at a nice dining room table with fine china). Although the furniture is gone, the imprints where the couches were affixed remain.

**Roman women being served food on their wooden sofas. This was the way the Roman Nobility “Wined and Dined” their guests.**

Between 54-55 CE, the floor was a replaced and a Mikveh (ritual bath) was added.

**The unearthed ritual bath. According to Jewish law, before once ascends to the Temple, they must enter the bath to become ritually pure.**

When the building was constructed in the early 1st century, Jerusalem was experiencing a massive boom. New monumental buildings were quickly being built, and older buildings were being renovated. Jewish pilgrims ascended the city three times a year, and tourists from all over the world came to see the beautiful city which contemporary Roman historian (Pliney the Elder) called the “Most illustrious City in the East”. The Roman historians considered Jerusalem to be the second largest city in the empire, after Rome.

**Second Temple Jerusalem was so large that it had three city walls protecting it!**

Of course, the centerpiece of Jerusalem was the Holy Temple, which was famous throughout the world. According to Jewish sources, the Holy Temple was the most beautiful building which ever existed. It was not merely its formidable architecture, but anyone visiting the Temple (Jewish and Gentile alike) felt the Divine Presence in an almost tangible way. In fact, so many pagans converted to Judaism after visiting the Temple, that Rome passed a law making it illegal to convert.

Although grand, the great banquet hall did not exist for long. In 70 CE, the Romans destroyed Jerusalem (including this massive building) and built new structures over it. Ironically, this is why the building itself has been so well preserved! Had the Romans simply left it alone, the building would have fallen into decay due to weathering and the removal of its stones for new building projects. In the 1300s, the Muslims built arches above these new, post-Temple Roman Structures (which then became underground cities themselves which can also be visited today). On top of them are the streets and buildings which today comprise the Muslim Quarter.

As the Muslims in the 14th century built the Muslim Quarter, the arches covered the Roman City (which itself was built 1300 years earlier atop the Second Temple in Jerusalem) turning it into an underground city.

This site’s significance is not only confined to the realm of historical books and documents, but is also currently relevant. In much of the Arab and Muslim world (including the Palestinian Authority), it is common to deny any Jewish connection to Jerusalem. Findings like this (which pre-date the birth of Islam by many centuries), continue to affirm to people throughout the world that the Jewish connection to Jerusalem is as ancient as it is eternal.

MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH: Israel discovers a new “Fountain of Youth”

Israeli scientists have discovered a way to extend life expectancy by 30%

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

**Israeli Professor Chaim Cohen in his lab in Bar Ilan University. He is working with scientists to develop a drug to increase life expectancy by 30%.**

Ancient writers in Greece wrote about a fountain containing magical water that restored youth when one drank of it. For thousands of years explorers have been searching for this mythical “Fountain of Youth”. While this fountain has remained elusive to discovery, Israeli scientists may have discovered the equivalent. This “Drug of Youth”, if effective, will change the course of human history in ways never seen before!

Israeli scientists at Bar Ilan University, led by Professor Chaim Cohen, conducted experiments on 250 mice by increasing their supply of Sirt6 (a protein that starts to decline with age). Sirt6 regulates aging, obesity, and insulin resistance. The male mice that were given the protein lived 30% longer, while the females lived 15% longer. If successfully applied to humans, the average life span would be expected to increase to up to 120 years!

In addition to the dramatic increase in life expectancy, the older mice who had the protein began to appear younger looking, were able to run faster, had less cholesterol, and were more resistant to cancer than ordinary mice.

Professor Cohen and his team are confident that this wonder drug could be successfully administered to humans with equal results and may be only 2-3 years away from being ready!

Mount Tabor

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

“North and South – You created them. Tabor and Hermon sing joyously in Your Name (Psalms 89:13)”

**Mount Tabor is often used in Scripture to denote “Majesty”.**
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Today we are visiting the stunning Mount Tabor! Surrounded by relatively flat lands, this mountain, which is shaped like a perfectly round semi-circle, dramatically rises 450 meters (1476 feet), seemingly out of nowhere. Because of this, the site is often used by scripture to denote majesty. For example, “As long as I live, says the King, Whose name is the Lord of Hosts, that as sure as Tabor is among the mountains, and Carmel is by the sea, it shall come about (Jeremiah 46:8)”. In Psalms 89:13, the verse says “Tabor…sings joyously in your name”.

The only way to get to the top is to drive upon a very windy road. The drive itself is through a beautiful Mediterranean forest filled with Mount Tabor Oaks (the actual name of this species of trees), Pistachio trees, common oaks, and Carob trees. Depending on the season, you will see beautiful wildflowers on your way up, some of them quite rare!

**This ultra-winding road is the only way to the top, but the drive is extraordinarily scenic**!
Photo Credit: Liorca -CC BY-SA 4.0

Once at the top, we are immediately treated to breathtaking panoramic views!

**Due to its height compared to its surroundings, the views of Mount Tabor are some of the most scenic in the country!**
Photo Credit: Zairon – CC BY-SA 4.0

Tabor was an important place in Biblical times, partly due to its location on the main international highway (the Via Marris) which went from Egypt to Damascus and Mesopotamia. It was also on an important North-South route in Israel. Since the mountain can be seen from far away, it acted as an important navigational landmark for wayfarers. The centrality of the mountain is further shown as being the border point between three tribes: Zebulun (Joshua 19:12), Issachar (IBID Joshua 19:22), and Naphtali (IBID 19:34).

**Mount Tabor (see blue circle) is the biblical border between three tribes.**
Photo Credit: Richardprins – CC BY-SA 3.0

Due to the dramatic height difference between the mountain and its surroundings, Tabor was used throughout history as an important fortification. Besides the steep slopes which made it difficult for enemies to climb and conquer, the views above allowed it to spot potential invaders from far away.

**The steep slopes of the mountain made it a formidable military base for defenders.**
Photo Credit: PikiWiki – Israel free image collection project – Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 Generic

When the Jewish people were oppressed by the ultra-powerful general Sisera, Deborah the prophetess told Barak (her husband according to Jewish sources) to gather together an army of 10,000 men and bring them to the top of Mount Tabor. When Sisera was near, Deborah told Barak to forge an attack with his army. As they ran down the mountain, G-d caused the superior forces of Sisera to be confounded, and they fled into the Kishon River. G-d then set a divine trap, and the enemy forces got stuck in the brook where they were subsequently slaughtered (for more on the miracles of the Kishon River and the battle against Sisera, click here). Because of these miracles, the Jewish people had quiet in their land for the next 40 years (see Judges 4). Later, Gideon’s brothers were killed by the Midianites on Mount Tabor (Judges 8:8).

**In the Kishon River, Sisera’s soldiers were ensnared and slaughtered by Barak’s forces.**
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

In post biblical times, Tabor continued to be a major fortress and was the site of several wars. When the Romans invaded Israel in 63 BCE, they fought against the Maccabean ruler Alexander, who had his base on Mount Tabor. Alexander refused to surrender, and the Romans attacked (ultimately capturing the mountain) and subsequently slaughtering 10,000 of the Jewish troops stationed there.

During the Great Jewish Revolt against the Romans, circa 66-73 CE, Jewish general Josephus Flavius (arguably the most famous historian in history) heavily fortified Mount Tabor, stockpiling provisions for a long siege, including water, food, and weapons. When the Romans came to attack, they were unable to safely climb the mountain, so General Placidus convinced the Rebels to descend and surrender in exchange for their life. The fighters pretended to surrender, but instead attacked the Romans. After a heavy fight the Romans gained the upper hand, and the surviving Jewish fighters fled to Jerusalem (which was ultimately conquered in 70 CE by the Romans, who then destroyed the Holy Temple).

**Remains of the wall that Josephus built to fight the Romans, circa 66-67 (see blue circle)**

During the Byzantine period, Tabor became a popular Christian pilgrimage site, and three monasteries were built on top.

**4th Century Byzantine ruins found on the property of the Greek Monastery of Mount Tabor.**

**Byzantine ruins found on the grounds of the Franciscan Monastery.**
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

In 1101 the invading Crusaders rebuilt the monasteries (which had turned into ruins) and built a massive fort atop the mountain.

**Ruins of the Crusader ‘Dungeon” (i.e. the tallest tower in the fort)**.
Photo Credit: **Shutterstock**

In 1187 the Muslim ruler Salah captured this place from the crusaders, although he allowed the Churches to continue to function. In 1212 his successor (and brother) Sultan Al-Adil I built massive fortifications using stones from the Churches and monasteries.

**Defense walls built by the Muslim rulers in 1212 in preparation for battles with the Crusaders. These walls stood for only 5 years, before the one who built it ordered it to be destroyed.**

In 1217 the Crusaders once again invaded Israel to dislodge the ruling Muslims. At first they were doing well, which caused the Muslims to do something which seemed counter intuitive; they destroyed their own fortification walls here and throughout the country. Why did they do such a peculiar thing when they should have been building more walls? The answer has to do with the different styles of battle that the Crusaders thrived in as compared to the Muslims. The Crusader strategy was to build many fortifications within eyesight of each other and hide behind the walls. If one of the forts was put under siege, soldiers from the other forts could leave their walls and attack the enemies from behind. However, the Muslims fought best in open fields. Had the Crusaders been able to capture the forts, the Muslims would have had little chance of expelling them afterwards. Had no forts existed, the Crusaders would have had little chance of re-capturing the land because they had to fight in the open field. For this reason, the Muslims destroyed their own walls and ultimately, they were victorious.

**Picture taken in 1912 with Mount Tabor clearly visible on the horizon.**

In 1229 the Crusaders were finally able to capture the mountain, but in 1263 the Muslim ruler Baybars conquered the area. Due to his hatred of the Christians, he destroyed all of the churches and religious institutions, banning Christians from attending.

For the next few centuries, all was relatively quiet atop the mountain. In 1799 the “Battle of Mount Tabor” took place in the valley between the French invading force of Napolean and the Ottoman Turkish rulers. Although the French sent only 2000 troops into battle, they were able to defeat the 35,000 Turkish troops guarding Mount Tabor (only two French troops were killed in battle). Although wildly successful in this battle, the Ottoman Turks were able to turn the tide of war in the siege of Akko (Acre). After 10 weeks in Israel, Napoleon and his forces were forced to retreat from the land.

**Famous painting hanging in the Louvre which shows Napolean visiting his troops at a military hospital in Jaffa, Israel.**

In the middle of the 19th century, the Greek Orthodox were permitted to rebuild one of their monasteries. In the 1920s, the Catholic churches were also allowed to be rebuilt (both incorporated Byzantine and Crusader ruins into their building plans).

Today, tourists can visit this breathtaking and historic biblical mountain! During your next tour of Israel, I hope to ascend Mount Tabor with you!

Nosson Shulman is a journalist and Licensed Tour Guide in Israel specializing in Biblical tours. To allow tourists to experience Israel during the Corona era, he created the new hit Israel tour video series which brings Israel to the home of viewers by simulating actual tours. To check out his free sneak preview tour videos, click here. To view sample tour itineraries or to inquire about private tour opportunities with a personalized itinerary on your next trip to Israel, click here.

Happy 247th Birthday America, from Israel!

6 Things you need to know about the special US-Israel relationship!

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

Two hundred and forty seven years ago today, the world changed forever when the USA declared Independence from the British empire. Since that time, the US has been a wonderful example for all of us and how we think of important values including personal freedom, individual rights and responsibilities, Democracy, religious liberty, entrepreneurship, and the American Dream. This process has enhanced the lives of countless people outside of its borders, including Israel. Indeed, this is a special day worldwide!

Although not an American, I am delighted to celebrate this wonderful day from Israel! In honor of this special day, here are 6 things you didn’t know about the unique, Israel-American relationship:

1) Both countries declared their independence from the British and had to fight existential wars as underdogs against more powerful armies and yet were still victorious!

**Painting of the US Declaration of the Independence on July 4, 1776 in Philadelphia (left) and Ben Gurion’s declaring Independence in Tel Aviv on May 14, 1948**

The US famously declared independence from the British Empire on this date in 1776. The British did not recognize this move, continuing to attack Colonial forces (the first battles actually started in 1775, but by 1776 it was a full blown war). Although the English had the world’s best trained army and largest navy, this new “American spirit” was victorious, eventually building one of the most successful and powerful nations on earth!

Israel’s day would come on May 14, 1948, when the British rulers left the Holy Land and Ben Gurion declared Independence. The next day, 7 Arab armies invaded Israel. Though vastly outnumbered in both troops and weaponry, Israel miraculously won the war, an outcome that no one expected. Today, Israel has become a leading nation, particularly in science, technology, its military, and so much more.

This shared history of fighting for Independence, triumphs against more powerful forces, and successfully creating two strong nations (during the most trying of circumstances) is one of the factors that had created strong bond between Americans and Israelis.

2) The US was the first country to recognize Israel after the Jewish state declared independence.

**Letter written by President Truman recognizing Israel.**

The US-Israel relationship began a mere 10 minutes after Israel declared independence. At 4:00 PM Ben Gurion announced the founding of the new Jewish state, and President Harry Truman reciprocated with a letter of recognition at 4:10 PM, becoming the first country to do so!

An interesting fact: No one knew what this new state would be called, so President Truman’s typed letter mentions “The new Jewish State”. Minutes later when he heard about the new name, he crossed out the typed letters and in his own handwriting wrote on top of it “The State of Israel”.

3) For the US Bicentennial in 1976, a park was planted in Jerusalem with an exact replica of the Liberty Bell.

**Liberty Park in Jerusalem with the exact replica of the Liberty Bell**
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

In 1976 Israel took the American Independence Day celebration a step further, and in honor of America’s bicentennial, planted a 9 acre park in Jerusalem. The park boasts sports facilities, a thousand seat amphitheater, playgrounds, several grassy areas for picnics (with plenty of trees for shade) and of course an exact replica of the Liberty Bell.

Today, Liberty Park is arguably the most popular park in Israel’s eternal capital.

4) There are three towns in Israel named after US presidents.

**Entrance signs to the Israeli towns of Kfar Truman (left) and Trump Heights (righ**

In Israeli history, while most US presidents could arguably have been called “Pro-Israel” (with some notable exceptions) two presidents have stood out for their exceptional Pro-Israel actions and have been honored with having a town named after them during their administration. In 1949, Kfar Truman was founded in Central Israel to honor Harry Truman, the first world leader to recognize Israel’s Independence. In 2019 Trump Heights was founded in the Golan Heights, after Donald Trump recognized Israel’s legitimate claim to that land (he also recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital).

In addition, there is a youth village is central Israel named after George Washington called Givat Washington.

For more on the historical US recognition of the Golan Heights and the founding of the town of Trump Heights, click here.

5) Outside of New York, the only September 11 memorial with the names of all 2,996 people who were killed, is found in Israel

**The September 11th Memorial Plaza just outside of Jerusalem. A part of the base was built using ruins from the World Trade Center.**

Good friends celebrate together during good times, but also share their pain during the bad. On September 11, 2001, the US suffered one of the worst and most tragic terrorist attacks in history. Although Israel has suffered from terrorist attacks since its inception (with most Israelis actually knowing at least one victim) we have not been desensitized to the pain of our friend and greatest ally.

To commemorate all victims of 9/11, the Jewish National Fund designed a 5-acre memorial plaza outside of Jerusalem. Etched into the monument are the names of all the victims (the only place in the world outside of New York with that distinction). Today, tourists visiting Israel may visit this remarkable site just outside of Jerusalem to pay their respects to the victims.

6) The US has vetoed at least 53 anti-Israel resolutions in the UN’s Security Council since 1972.

**Then US Ambassador Nicky Haley vetoing a UN security council resolution condemning the US recognition of Jerusalem as the capital to Israel on December 18, 2017.**

The UN has been infected with anti-Semitism from its inception. Despite Israel being a model of religious freedom and tolerance, the UN has targeted Israel more than all other countries combined. In spite of the fact that 2020 saw many countries involved in genocide, war crimes, human trafficking, religious persecution, and torture and imprisonment of political opponents, 17 of the 23 condemnations issued that year by the UN General Assembly were against Israel.

In the UN security Council since 1972, at least 53 resolutions were blocked by the US who have veto power. On the flip side, Israel and the US have introduced many resolutions against terrorist organizations such as Hamas over the years, but very few have passed because the other countries on the council have vetoed them.

The US continues to be a valuable ally and dear friend of the Jewish state! I would personally like to wish the people of America a Very Happy and Healthy Independence Day!

INCREDIBLE: Israel invents high tech camouflage that makes soldiers invisible!

The KIT 300 Sheet makes IDF soldiers undetectable to the naked eye or thermal imaging technology!

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

If you look closely, you will see that one of the “rocks” is really an IDF soldier hidden inside a sheet (see the binoculars). It is made of thermal visual concealment materials that combine metals, microfibers, and polymers, making soldiers virtually undetectable to the enemy.

Israel, the “Startup Nation”, has done it once again, this time inventing a sheet allowing IDF soldiers to fight enemies without being seen or detected. This game changer will be paramount in counter-intelligence operations, where crucial information is gathered against those plotting against the Jewish State.

This sheet was the brain-child of Asaf Piciotto, co-founder and CEO of Polaris Solutions. His idea came from his own experiences in a special force unit that fought in the 2006 Lebanese war. He saw first-hand that IDF Soldiers on the ground needed protection from the enemy’s thermal and night-vision equipment. To develop this “invisible cloak”, he brought in several IDF veterans with special forces training to lend their expertise.

The Kit 300 Sheet, made with special metals, microfibers, and polymers, does not merely protect soldiers hiding in the midst of their enemies from tracking technology, but also acts as an amazing camouflage to the naked eye. The sheets come in different colors which mimic the surrounding environments, such as deserts or mountains, making the hidden soldiers indistinguishable from the terrain. Unsuspecting enemies looking through their binoculars will think they are simply looking at natural rocks.

In addition to this incredible protection, the sheets also double as a stretcher which can carry wounded soldiers from the battlefield. Already, armies such as the US and Canada have signed up to buy this wonder sheet.

Breaking News: Iran’s Sole Functioning Nuclear Powerplant has emergency shutdown

This incident follows on the heels of a “mysterious” explosion that occurred at the plant last month.

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

The Bushehr Powerplant is Iran’s only functioning nuclear powerplant, built with Russian’s help in 2011.

Once again, a complex vital to Iran’s nuclear program has been put out of commission. On Saturday, the Bushehr Nuclear Powerplant underwent an emergency, “unexplained” shut down for the first time in its 10-year existence. Iran’s comment was that this incident was merely a technical issue, and that the plant would be operational within 3 or 4 days (although the televised address given by an Iranian energy official left more questions than answers).

This setback is one of many that has frustrated Iran’s nuclear ambitions since mid-2020. In April, Iran’s key nuclear facility was severely damaged in a daring, elaborate operation, attributed to Israel (For more on that operation, click here). In that case too, Iran claimed the issue was merely technical. A slew of Iranian nuclear scientists, vital to the mission have been assassinated, including Iran’s most guarded man and head of Iran’s nuclear program in late 2020 (for more on the incredible circumstances of the assassination, click here). Although Israel has a policy of neither admitting nor denying their involvement, in an unprecedented move last week Yossi Cohen (head of the Mossad) hinted at its involvement.

This is not the first time the Bushehr Powerplant has been attacked. Just last month an explosion occurred nearby, killing and wounding several officials. In July, a “mysterious” fire broke out at the city’s port, destroying 7 ships.

In addition to these attacks, Iran’s nuclear program has been beset by financial problems. In March, Iran announced that if the Trump era sanctions were kept in place, the Islamic republic would haveno choice but to close their only nuclear powerplant. Also, terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah that rely on Iran have been unable to keep all of their “soldiers” on the payroll and are in dire need of cash.

Even though the sanctions have been shown to be effective, U.S. President Biden recently rolled back some of the sanctions and is trying to return to former President Obama’s failed 2015 nuclear accords in exchange for full sanction relief. Experts fear that this would give Iran the ability to move forward with their nuclear ambitions and restore funding to terrorist organizations which have caused several deadly civil wars in Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and Syria. Iran has vowed to “Wipe Israel off the face of the Earth”. Israel has vowed not to let the rogue state acquire the weapon.

Biblical Kishon River

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

“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)”

**Section of the Kishon River just outside of Haifa**.
Photo Credit: קודקוד צהוב – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International

At 70 km, Kishon is one of the longest rivers in Israel. When speaking of the most frequently visited Biblical sites in Israel, the Kishon River is seldom on the top 100 list. Yet, two incredible and dramatic stories from the Bible took place here.

**The river is not particularly wide and in some narrower spots, “Brook” might be a more accurate description than “River”.**
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

The river begins at Mt. Gilboa (near Beit Shean) and continues all the way to Haifa, eventually emptying into the Mediterranean Sea.

**The mouth of the river empties into the Mediterranean Sea in northern Haifa.**

The river acted as a border between the tribes of Asher and Manasseh (see Joshua 19:26. Scholars say “Shihorlibnath” is another name for Kishon River).

The Kishon river is most famously known for being the setting of the battle between Barak & Deborah and the Canaanite General Sisera (Judges 4). For 20 years the ultra-powerful General, who commanded an army possessing 900 Iron chariots (the ancient equivalent of having 900 of the most powerful tanks) oppressed the Jewish people. At that time, Deborah was both a prophetess and a judge. She called for Barak (her husband according to some Jewish sources) who was sitting in Kedesh, to come visit her (for more on Kedesh, click here).

**Ruins of Kedesh, the ancient city where Barak lived (for more on this magnificent but rarely visited site, click here)**.
Photo Credit: Natalinasser – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0

Deborah called him to reveal G-d’s prophesy, that the Jewish people would go to war against Sisera and be victorious. Barak was designated to gather 10,000 troopers to Mount Tabor, while G-d would influence Sisera and his army to enter the Kishon River, ostensibly to attack the Jewish army. However, in reality he was being divinely lured (according to Jewish sources, G-d even caused Sisera to ignore the advice of his astrologers who told him it was a trap).

**On this summit of Mount Tabor, Barak stationed his 10,000 troops.**
Photo Credit: PikiWiki – Israel free image collection project – Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 Generic

Indeed, it was told to General Sisera that Barak and his men were on Mount Tabor, and he led his troops into the Kishon River. When Barak descended the mountain to attack, G-d caused Sisera’s men to become frightened and confused. G-d also caused the Canaanites to get stuck in the Kishon River (Judges 5:21). According to Jewish sources, G-d performed a miracle and when the Canaanites entered the usually shallow, lazy brook, He caused the river to become a raging torrent, which trapped some and swept away others. But when the Jews entered, they only experienced the effects of a shallow, docile brook. Barak’s men then slaughtered the remainder of Sisera’s army and destroyed his chariots (Sisera himself would flee and be entrapped and killed by Yael). Because of the miracles that took place here, the Jewish people lived peacefully in the land of Israel for the next 40 years.

The second major story occurring by this river, involved Elijah the Prophet (see Kings 18). On the nearby Carmel Mountain, Elijah challenged the 450 false prophets of the baal, where both he and they would each offer a sacrifice on the altar. The one that G-d consumed with fire would reveal who the true prophet was. G-d performed a miracle, and a fire came down from the heavens and consumed Elijah’s sacrifice (for more on the Carmel Mountains and the exceptional miracle which took place there, click here). After Elijah had proven them to be false prophets, he ordered them to be seized and taken down to the Kishon Brook (which is right at the foot of the mountain) to be slaughtered (1 Kings 18:40).

**The part of the Kishon River (circled in Red) as seen from the Carmel Mountains, where the false prophets were slaughtered.**
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

In modern times (especially around the industrial city of Haifa) the river was once the most polluted in Israel, due to the nearby industrial waste centers which contaminated the river with toxins. In the last decade, the Israeli government invested large amounts of money to clean up the river, and a beautiful park was built. This turned what was once one of the dirtiest parts of the river, into a pleasant place to visit! In 2019 another large park along the river was approved, and once completed will have bicycle paths, beautiful gardens, restaurants, sports facilities, and a sailing club!

**The new park being built.**
Photo Credit: Nahal Kishon Authority

On your next trip to Israel, it is certainly worthwhile to visit this beautiful and serene biblical site, especially as it can be done as a visit in conjunction with several other exciting nearby sites!

On July 1st, Tourists Will Be Allowed To Enter Israel For the First Time Since March 2020

This follows the abolition of almost all Covid 19 restrictions within the country.

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

Ben Gurion Airport’s departure hall sits empty in this early 2021 picture. Beginning July 1, scenes like this will be a thing of the past, as tourists from several countries will be allowed once again to visit the Holy Land.

When (in mid-March 2020) Israel closed its borders to almost all foreigners, its booming tourism industry came to a screeching halt overnight, with no known end date in sight. It has remained that way ever since, but there now finally looks to be some light at the end of the tunnel!

Starting on July 1 vaccinated tourists from select countries, likely including the US, will be allowed entry. At this point, it has not been made clear if non-vaccinated individuals with recovery documents will be allowed entry, though many assume that by July 1 those people are likely to be included. There are not expected to be any limits regarding how many people can enter.

Israel is arguably the first Western country to enter the post Covid-19 period. Israelis, who have suffered through some of the most draconian lockdowns (three in all) in addition to very restrictive rules, have largely returned to pre-corona “normal” as restrictions have been abolished one by one. Today, wearing a mask outdoors is no longer mandatory. Restaurants, nature sites, beaches and gyms have re-opened to full capacity and the green passport system (which allows only vaccinated and recovered individuals to enter certain venues) has been abolished. On June 15, masks indoors will no longer be mandatory (except for airports) leaving few restrictions in place for those living in Israel.

On May 23 Israel began allowing limited tour groups from certain countries, including the US, to enter. With the success of this pilot program, it was decided to open up the country to individual travelers as well. If this new allowance proves to be successful, it is hoped the program will be enlarged to include an expanded list of groups and countries of origin.

Disclaimer

The author of this article is not an attorney, and this article should not be construed as legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only and should never be relied upon. It is highly recommended for anyone wanting to enter Israel, to verify that they are qualified to enter the country, and to ensure they have the appropriate documents to successfully do so.

HUGE NEWS! Honduras to move their embassy to Jerusalem this month!

This Central American nation becomes the 4th country to move their embassy

By Nosson Shulman: Licensed Tour Guide of VIP Israel Tours & Authentic Virtual Tours (click here to check out his free trailer videos)

**Prime Minister Netanyahu greeted President Hernandez on the latter’s visit to Jerusalem in 2015**

In a major diplomatic victory for Israel, Honduras is set to move their embassy to Jerusalem after decades of operating in Tel Aviv. At the same time, Israel will open a diplomatic office in Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras.

In recent years, Honduras has emerged as a reliable ally to Israel in international forms. At the UN, the Spanish-speaking country often votes against anti-Israel resolutions. In 2019, Honduras officially recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and in 2020 labeled Hezbollah as a terrorist organization.

The Latin American country has also benefitted tremendously from its strong relationship with Israel, including the receiving of humanitarian aid and thousands of vaccines donated by the Jewish state.

This moving of the embassy is all the more incredible when one considers that Honduras has the second largest “Palestinian” population in Latin America, except for Chile (the name is a misnomer because there has never been an independent state called Palestine, nor has there ever been a distinct “Palestinian” culture or dialect. The Arabs living in Judea & Samaria are culturally and linguistically Jordanian, while those in Gaza are culturally Egyptian ).

Honduras becomes the fourth country to make the move, following in the footsteps of its bordering neighbor Guatemala, the United States, and Kosovo. Several other countries have pledged to move their respective embassies in the future including the Czech Republic, Serbia, Brazil, Malawi, Equatorial New Guinea and the Dominican Republic.