Israel Tour Guide - Sam Gorenshten

Hebron: A Gateway to Biblical History and Faith

Hebron: A Gateway to Biblical History and Faith Hebron is not just another ancient city; it’s a living testament to the Bible’s rich history and a place where faith comes alive. Located in the southern part of the Holy Land, Hebron is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its history is deeply intertwined with the lives of the patriarchs and matriarchs of the Bible, making it one of the most spiritually significant destinations for Christians. At the heart of Hebron lies The Cave of the Patriarchs (Machpelah), a site revered as the burial place of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and Jacob and Leah. This sacred cave, mentioned in Genesis 23, was purchased by Abraham as a burial site, making it the first piece of the Promised Land ever owned by the father of faith. What Makes the Cave of the Patriarchs So Unique? The site is marked by a massive structure built by King Herod over 2,000 years ago, featuring impressive stone walls and architecture that still stand today. The grandeur of the structure reflects the reverence held for this holy place throughout history. Inside, the air is filled with a sense of awe, prayer, and spiritual connection. Visitors can see the cenotaphs (commemorative monuments) of the patriarchs and matriarchs, which symbolize their eternal legacy. For Christians, this site is a reminder of God's covenant with Abraham, which paved the way for the coming of Jesus Christ. Hebron’s Spiritual Depth Hebron isn’t just about its historical significance; it’s a place of profound spiritual meaning. As you walk through its ancient streets, you can reflect on Abraham’s faith and obedience to God, Isaac’s trust, and Jacob’s transformation into Israel. It’s a place that invites you to connect with your faith on a deeper level and contemplate God’s faithfulness across generations. Other Biblical Connections Hebron is also where King David ruled for seven years before moving his kingdom to Jerusalem (2 Samu

The City of Akko From Above

Shabbat Shalom to all my friends around the world. We are hoping for the end of the war and the return of the hostages. 79 hostages are still waiting to reunite with their homes and families. I’ve attached a short video of the city of Akko, one of the most historic and fascinating cities in Israel.

israel skyline

Shabbat Shalom to all my friends around the world! We are nearing the end of a war that has lasted 14 months, and in the coming days, we expect the return of the hostages to their homes and families. This process is likely to continue over the next few weeks. Airlines are gradually resuming operations in Israel, and the first tourists can already be seen arriving to visit the country. After this long war, I’d like to introduce you to some of the most prominent sites for visitors in Israel. Of course, there are many more sacred and historical places worth visiting during your next trip to Israel. Let us all continue to pray for peace in Jerusalem and around the world!

🌟 Discover Tel Hatzor – A Biblical Gem in the Galilee! 🌟

Did you know that Tel Hatzor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often referred to as the "Head of all Kingdoms" in the Bible? 📖✨ Mentioned in the Book of Joshua (Joshua 11:10-11), this ancient city played a key role in the story of the Israelite conquest of the Promised Land. Walking through the ruins of Tel Hatzor is like stepping into the pages of Scripture, where kings once ruled, and history was written. 🌄 What can you find there? As you explore Tel Hatzor, you’ll uncover: ✅ The remains of a Canaanite palace from over 3,000 years ago, giving you a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilizations. ✅ Fortified city walls and gates, attributed to King Solomon, which showcase the wisdom and strength of his reign. ✅ A massive water system, built to protect the city during sieges, demonstrating the incredible ingenuity of the time. ✅ Canaanite temples and altars that provide insight into the religious practices of the city’s inhabitants before its conquest. ✅ Artifacts like pottery, statues, and inscriptions, which tell the story of Hatzor’s prominence as the largest city in Canaan during the biblical era. Walking these ancient grounds, you can reflect on how Tel Hatzor was not just a powerful city but also a place where faith intersected with history. The destruction of Hatzor, as described in the Bible, reminds us of the unfolding of God’s promises to His people. For Christians, visiting Tel Hatzor is more than just an archaeological journey – it’s an opportunity to deepen your faith and witness how history aligns with Scripture. 🗓️ Plan your visit! If you’re traveling to Israel, add Tel Hatzor to your itinerary. Surrounded by the beauty of the Galilee region, it’s the perfect place for reflection, learning, and connection with the Word. ✝️ Have you visited any biblical sites before? What did it mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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,