When I first set out to write A Practical Guide to the Holy Land, I wasn’t trying to add “just another travel book” to the shelf. I wanted to create something that I felt was missing when I traveled across Israel: a guide that combines the depth of history and spirituality with the practical advice […]
Why We Wrote “A Practical Guide to the Holy Land” Read More »
ONCE upon a time, a long, long time ago, there lived a happy family in some little town, the name of which I have forgotten. The family consisted of a good Rabbi, his wife and an only daughter. The girl was exceedingly sweet-tempered, and as she grew in years so did she grow in beauty.
The Magic Apples (The Jewish Fairy Book) Read More »
One of the most frequently asked questions about life in Israel revolves around the military – Israel Defense Forces (IDF): “Is IDF service mandatory?” The answer is straightforward—yes, for most Israelis. However, the details paint a more nuanced picture. Who Is Required to Serve? Under Israel’s Defense Service Law, military service is mandatory for Jewish
Is IDF Service Mandatory? Military Conscription in Israel Read More »
The Crusades were a series of military campaigns, launched primarily by Western European Christians, with the initial aim of recapturing Jerusalem and other holy sites in the Near East from Muslim rule. Between the 11th and 13th centuries, the Crusades resulted in significant exchanges between the European and Islamic worlds, leaving a lasting influence on
The Impact of the Crusades Read More »
Caesarea, an ancient city on the Mediterranean coast of Israel, holds a rich and diverse history, spanning from its foundation by King Herod the Great in the 1st century BCE to its significance in the Crusader period. Today, we will explore the main Crusader Sites in Caesarea. Originally built as a grand port city, Caesarea became
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The First Crusade, launched in 1096, was a remarkable military and religious campaign that culminated in the capture of Jerusalem on July 15, 1099. This conquest, driven by religious zeal and political ambition, solidified the Crusaders’ presence in the Holy Land and marked the beginning of nearly 90 years of Latin Christian control over Jerusalem.
The Crusader Conquest of Jerusalem Read More »
Acre, a city steeped in history, played a crucial role during the Crusader era. Known today for its rich archaeological treasures, Acre’s Crusader Period was marked by military might, economic prosperity, and religious significance. As the key port for the Crusader Kingdoms, it became a bustling hub of commerce and a fortress of defense against
Acre in the Crusader Period Read More »
The Crusades, launched by Pope Urban II in 1095, led to the establishment of several Crusader states in the Levant, with the Kingdom of Jerusalem being the most prominent. These states, often referred to as Outremer, were strategically placed along vital trade routes and served as bastions of Christian power in a predominantly Muslim region.
The Crusader States Read More »
The Crusades, a series of religious and military campaigns launched by Christian Europe between the 11th and 13th centuries, left an indelible mark on the Middle East, particularly on the lands that now comprise modern-day Israel. These campaigns, driven by religious fervor, political ambition, and economic interests, had profound and lasting consequences for the region.
The Crusades and Israel Read More »
Israel is not just a country with a rich history and stunning landscapes; it’s also a vibrant tapestry of languages that reflect its diverse population. From ancient tongues to modern dialects, the linguistic landscape of Israel is as dynamic as its cultural heritage. Let’s explore the languages that make Israel a unique linguistic melting pot.
The Languages of Israel: A Melting Pot of Cultures Read More »
