MEA Weekly Picture from Israel

Pictures from Israel

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Full moon over Jerusalem

This beautiful photo of a very full moon looking down on the inhabitants of Jerusalem who are soaking in the balmy warm evening—people sitting or walking down to the Jaffa Gate. Many people talk of the unique atmosphere and feeling that permeates the city of Jerusalem, especially at night and on the Sabbath Day. There would be many reasons why this is so—perhaps its spiritual heritage or glorious history, or the towering stone walls surrounding ancient buildings. It is not surprising that Jerusalem hosts four different monotheistic religions, who host the majority of the world’s population of those who believe in a Superior Being ‘looking down’ and taking an interest in the activities of mankind.

Or on a more social note, Jerusalem’s ‘energy’ might come from its inhabitants creating the hustle and bustle of the busy of the crowded colourful markets, or the celebrations on special days where people will openly dance and sing on the main streets or in the parks; along the narrow laneways and in the open spaces, but whatever the reason for the unique atmosphere, it is the people who make Israel one of the ten most happiest countries in the world.  

Geographically, Jerusalem sits on the original hills of the City of David with its surrounding wall approximately four kilometres long. Jerusalem is one of the most ‘fought-over’ pieces of real estate in the world. This historical city was originally built by King David in 1004 B.C.E. and has often been considered the centre of the Earth. Ancient maps show only the three continents that were known at the time: Europe, Asia and Africa, where each met the other at a common geographical point, which had Jerusalem at its centre.  This is almost certainly why the trade routes and conquering armies found this small strip of land a valuable asset. Jerusalem has been cherished by kings, rulers, traders and conquerors who bear witness to its enduring walls.

MEA Weekly Picture from Israel

Pictures from Israel

Click to enlarge

Avir swimming in the Dead Sea

This old ramp leading into the Dead Sea can be seen at Ein Bokek beach, adjacent to some very impressive five- to seven-star resorts. However, what was more interesting for Avir was the anticipation of a very memorable ‘swim’, but first he would have to check out the water temperature before taking the plunge.   One doesn’t actually ‘swim’ in the Sea, but rather ‘floats’ and diving is out of the question because putting one’s head under the water can be a serious health risk. That’s why floating on one’s back is preferable and just sitting is also popular because the water is so dense from the salt content that it’s possible to actually ‘sit’.  Avir, (pictured to the right of the photo) found the water temperature to be warm and rather pleasant.

The old saying about ‘rubbing salt into one’s wounds’ takes on a serious note here with Avir being very careful not to put his face under the water, as the concentrated saline levels can sting the eyes very badly, which is why swimmers are advised to keep a bottle of fresh water (for flushing the eyes) and a towel close by on the beach. Overall, this was one of Avir’s most favourite time in Israel!