Situated between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, Tel Gezer is a fascinating archaeological site with a rich tapestry of history and deep Biblical significance. This ancient city, perched on a hill overlooking the coastal plains, was a strategic crossroads in Biblical times and remains a treasure trove for those seeking to connect with the Holy Land’s heritage.
📖 Biblical Significance
Tel Gezer is referenced throughout the Bible:
🔹 Joshua 10:33 - "Then Horam king of Gezer came up to help Lachish, but Joshua defeated him and his army—until no survivors were left."
🔹 1 Kings 9:15-17 - Solomon rebuilt Gezer after Pharaoh of Egypt captured it and gave it to Solomon as a dowry for his marriage to Pharaoh’s daughter.
This city served as a gateway to Israel, guarding important trade routes and playing a key role in ancient diplomacy and warfare.
🏛 What to See at Tel Gezer
1️⃣ The Canaanite High Place
Discover a mysterious collection of standing stones (Massebot), believed to be part of ancient religious rituals. These stones bear witness to the spiritual practices of the city’s Canaanite inhabitants.
2️⃣ Solomonic Gate
The remains of a six-chambered gate, attributed to King Solomon’s reign, showcase the advanced architecture of his time. Similar gates have been discovered at Megiddo and Hazor, confirming Biblical accounts of Solomon’s building projects.
3️⃣ The Gezer Calendar
See where the Gezer Calendar, one of the oldest known Hebrew inscriptions, was discovered. This artifact provides a glimpse into the agricultural life of ancient Israel, listing the months and their associated activities, such as planting and harvesting.
4️⃣ Ancient Water System
Marvel at the sophisticated water system that supplied the city’s inhabitants. The tunnel, carved deep into the rock, highlights the ingenuity of the people who lived here thousands of years ago.
5️⃣ City Walls and Towers
Explore the massive fortifications from the Middle Bronze Age,
Shabbat Shalom to all my friends around the world!
Good news: Last night, an agreement was finally reached between Hamas and the State of Israel (with the mediation of Qatar, the USA, and Egypt) for the return of the hostages and the cessation of fighting.
Our previous experience with Hamas' adherence to agreements has not been particularly successful, but the optimistic sentiment is sweeping across the people of Israel.
After 15 months of fighting, there is hope for the return of 98 hostages to their families and homes!
At the same time, negotiations for ending the conflict are expected to continue.
We look forward to the return of our daily routines and the revival of tourist flights to Israel.
This week, we will unveil a new and surprising discovery from the most excavated site in the world—The City of David!
I eagerly await the return of tourists to visit this remarkable city, filled with surprises for over 3,000 years.
Tel Megiddo — The Biblical Armageddon Site You Must Visit 🌟
Did you know that Armageddon — the term symbolizing the final battle between good and evil — comes from Har Megiddo (Tel Megiddo), an ancient city in northern Israel?
Mentioned in Revelation 16:16, Tel Megiddo is believed to be the location where the world’s last great battle will take place. This ancient city, sitting at the crossroads of major trade and military routes, has been a witness to countless battles throughout history. But what makes it truly significant is its prophetic importance in Christianity.
📖 What Can You See at Tel Megiddo?
When you visit this remarkable site, you’ll walk through layers of history dating back thousands of years. Here are some of the highlights:
➡️ King Solomon’s Gates – Massive gates believed to be built by King Solomon to fortify the city.
➡️ Canaanite Temples – Some of the oldest known places of worship.
➡️ King Ahab’s Stables – Thought to have housed his chariots and horses.
➡️ Ancient Water System – A brilliant engineering feat that allowed the city to survive long sieges.
➡️ Jezreel Valley Viewpoint – The very spot where prophecy says the final battle of Armageddon will unfold.
Standing at Tel Megiddo, overlooking the Jezreel Valley, is an experience that makes Biblical prophecy come to life. The name Armageddon isn’t just a symbol of destruction — it’s a reminder of God’s plan to bring peace and justice. It’s about redemption, hope, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.
For Christians, this site is a powerful symbol of faith. It invites us to reflect on our own spiritual battles and reminds us of the promise that, in the end, God’s light will prevail.
Would you like to visit Tel Megiddo and stand where history, faith, and prophecy meet? This sacred place holds the stories of the past and a message of hope for the future. 🌍🙏
Shabbat Shalom to all my friends and loved ones around the world.
We’ve been in this war for 15 months now. Today, thank God, we can already see its approaching end.
Still, our hearts ache for the 98 hostages who are yet to return home to their families. We continue to wait and hope for the day when they will all come back safely.
Meanwhile, life is slowly starting to return to normal.
Domestic tourism is recovering, and even tourists from abroad are starting to visit again.
This is a small but meaningful sign of hope.
Today, I chose to share a song that resonates with me during these times — “Lu Yehi” (Let It Be) in a very special performance.
May we all return to peaceful, joyful lives filled with hope, creation, and connection.
Wishing us all a Shabbat of peace and hope
Shepherds' Field Chapel in Bethlehem – A Place Where Heaven Touched Earth
Imagine standing in the very place where, according to the Gospel of Luke, angels appeared to humble shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus Christ! ✨ The Shepherds' Field Chapel, located just outside Bethlehem, is a cherished Christian site that commemorates this divine moment of joy and hope.
This beautiful Franciscan church is a must-visit for anyone wanting to feel closer to the Nativity story. Designed by the famous Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, the chapel was built to resemble a shepherd’s tent, reminding us of the humble beginnings of our Savior’s journey.
Inside the Chapel:
The interior is filled with stunning frescoes depicting the angel’s announcement to the shepherds, the adoration of the shepherds, and the Nativity itself. These images beautifully bring to life the events that unfolded on that holy night. The ceiling features a starry sky, drawing our thoughts to the miraculous star that led the Wise Men to Jesus.
Why is this place so important to Christians?
The Shepherds' Field symbolizes the humility of Jesus' birth and the fact that the Good News was first shared with ordinary, simple people—shepherds—reminding us that God’s love is for everyone, no matter their status or background. It is a reminder of the faithfulness of God and the joy of the Gospel.
As you walk through this sacred place, you can't help but feel the presence of the Holy Spirit and the overwhelming message of peace and hope that Jesus brought to the world.
💙 Visiting the Shepherds' Field Chapel is a powerful way to reconnect with the heart of the Christmas story and reflect on what it means to be a shepherd of faith in today’s world.
The North of Israel is Reviving
Shabbat Shalom my dear friends around the world,
We’ve been in a state of war for 15 months now. Thankfully, there are signs of calm and stabilization.
However, we are still waiting for the return of 100 hostages to their families and homes.
We are also waiting for you, the tourists. Some have already started booking trips for the remainder of 2025.
The northern region has calmed down, and local travelers have returned to explore the lush and beautiful landscapes of the north.
Winter is in full swing, and the waters are flowing into the Sea of Galilee.
The video shows the stunning scenery of northern Israel, from the Golan Heights and Upper and Lower Galilee to the Sea of Galilee and the hills of Samaria.
I hope to see you soon traveling through our beautiful country and visiting its holy sites.
Shabbat Shalom! ✨
Hanukkah For Christians - The Feast of Dedication
Discover the Connection Between Hanukkah and the Life of Jesus 🕎✝️
Did you know that Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, is mentioned in the New Testament? While Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday, it holds a special connection to the Christian faith through the story of Jesus.
In the Gospel of John, we read:
"Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade." (John 10:22-23)
This “Festival of Dedication” is Hanukkah! It celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabees’ victory over oppression—a story of faith and resilience.
For Christians, this moment is a powerful reminder of Jesus' connection to Jewish traditions and His presence at the Temple, a place deeply tied to God’s faithfulness and light.
🌟 The Miracle of Dedication
Hanukkah is a celebration of light overcoming darkness and faith triumphing over adversity. These themes resonate deeply with the Christian message of hope and redemption. Reflecting on Jesus’ presence at the Temple during this festival reminds us of His dedication to bringing light and truth into the world.
This season, let’s celebrate the light that shines in darkness and the faith that unites us.
The Church of the Nativity: Step Into the Story of Christ’s Birth
Have you ever dreamed of visiting the place where Jesus was born? The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is one of the oldest and most sacred sites in Christianity, marking the very spot where the story of our Savior began.
This remarkable church was built in the year 327 AD by Emperor Constantine and his mother, Helena. They chose this location based on traditions passed down by the early Christians. The original church has undergone changes over the centuries, but its heart remains the same—a testament to the miracle of Christ’s birth.
Inside, you’ll find the Grotto of the Nativity, the humble space where Jesus was born. A silver star embedded in the floor marks this sacred spot, inscribed with the words: “Here Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary.” This small, peaceful grotto carries an overwhelming sense of divine presence and historical significance.
The church itself has seen generations of pilgrims, kings, and ordinary believers who came to honor the birth of Jesus. Despite challenges like invasions and earthquakes, it has been preserved as a symbol of hope, faith, and God’s enduring love.
Visiting the Church of the Nativity isn’t just a historical journey—it’s a deeply spiritual experience. As you stand in this holy place, you’ll feel connected to the moment when heaven touched earth, fulfilling God’s promise of salvation.
If you ever find yourself in the Holy Land, don’t miss the chance to visit this sacred church. Let it inspire your faith and fill your heart with the joy of Christ’s birth.
Blessings and peace,
How did King David Conquer Jerusalem?
Shabbat Shalom to all my friends around the world!
15 months of war, and we are still waiting for the return of 100 hostages to their families and homes.
This week, we celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas.
I wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,
and of course, a bright and joyful Hanukkah!
This week's post will talk about the conquest of Jerusalem, originally Jebus, over 3,000 years ago by King David.
The Annunciation Church in Nazareth: A Gateway to Faith and History
n the heart of Nazareth, the city where Jesus spent much of His life, stands a site of extraordinary spiritual and historical significance—the Basilica of the Annunciation. This sacred church commemorates the moment when the angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary and announced the miraculous conception of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.
🕊️ A Cornerstone of Christianity
The Annunciation is one of the most pivotal events in Christian theology, marking the beginning of the Incarnation—God becoming man to redeem humanity. The Basilica serves as a powerful symbol of Mary’s faith and humility, encapsulated in her words: “Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
This moment wasn’t just about Mary; it was about God’s plan to bring salvation to all. Visiting the church allows pilgrims to step into the place where divine history began to unfold in a deeply personal way.
🏛️ Architectural and Spiritual Significance
The Basilica is the largest Christian church in the Middle East, designed to be both majestic and inviting.
Its modern upper level is adorned with mosaics and artwork from Christian communities across the globe, each offering a unique representation of the Virgin Mary. This collection highlights the universal devotion to her and serves as a reminder that faith transcends borders.
The lower level houses the Grotto of the Annunciation, traditionally believed to be Mary’s home. This sacred space invites reflection and prayer, connecting visitors directly to the moment when Mary’s "yes" changed the world.
🌍 A Place of Pilgrimage and Unity
The Basilica is more than a church—it’s a place where faithful Christians from all denominations come together. It bridges cultures and traditions, uniting believers in their love for Christ and reverence for Mary.
💡 Why is it so important today?
In a world often divided, the Annunciation Church reminds us of the power of faith, obedience, and humility. Mary’s acceptance
The City of David
Shabbat shalom my dear friends around the world..
We have been at war for 15 months now and are still waiting for 100 hostages to return to their families and homes.
There are early signs that the war is coming to an end, and we are looking forward to a wave of tourism that will once again fill the historical and sacred sites.
One of the most fascinating and meticulously excavated places is Israel’s capital, Jerusalem, referred to in the Bible as the City of David—a captivating site from biblical times.
I am filled with hope to once again walk the alleys of this city alongside tourists.
Walk the Path of Faith: The Via Dolorosa
Have you ever longed to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and experience the moments that shaped our faith? The Via Dolorosa, nestled in the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City, is more than a historic route—it’s a spiritual journey that invites pilgrims to reflect on Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and His unwavering love for humanity.
The Meaning Behind the Path
The name Via Dolorosa means "The Way of Sorrow," symbolizing the suffering Jesus endured on His way to the crucifixion. This route, spanning about 600 meters (or 0.37 miles), retraces the final steps of Jesus from His trial before Pontius Pilate to His crucifixion at Golgotha.
The Stations of the Cross
The route is marked by 14 Stations of the Cross, each commemorating a specific event from Jesus’ Passion. Walking along these stations is a profound way to connect with the moments that defined His journey:
Station 1: Jesus is condemned to death. Stand where the story of His sacrifice began.
Station 5: Meet the place where Simon of Cyrene stepped in to help carry the heavy cross, a reminder of compassion and shared burdens.
Station 8: Reflect at the site where Jesus consoled the women of Jerusalem, even in His own agony.
Each station offers a chance to pause, pray, and meditate on the meaning of Christ’s journey and what it signifies for us today.
From the Path to the Resurrection
The journey culminates at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a site that holds the tomb of Jesus and the location of His resurrection. As you step into the church, the sorrow of the Via Dolorosa transforms into the hope and victory of the risen Christ.
A Timeless Journey for the Soul
For centuries, Christians from all over the world have walked the Via Dolorosa, carrying their own prayers, hopes, and gratitude. It is not just a physical path but a spiritual pilgrimage that invites us to reflect on our own lives, our struggles, and the grace we receive through faith.
📖 "He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so th
