Masada, the Dead Sea, Qumran, and a Camel

We were happy to return to the valley from Bethlehem this morning, where we got a warm up of 15 to 20 degrees more that we awoke to, and without the brisk wind. Our day started at Masada, the site of the last resistance of Zealots to the Roman conquerors determined to subdue them. Our group listened attentively as our guide Naim recounted this history for us. There was a decision to die by suicide and at their own hands rather than succumb to the Romans, and only two women and a few of their children were sent down the mound to tell the story as the Romans were held off on the other side.

We rode by cable car to the top, walking around a large area, with ruins of many types of rooms and buildings, including a synagogue that faced east to Jerusalem, several strategic lookouts, rooms for food and water storage, baths, and walls with coves for doves later used as a columbarium. The black line you see in this picture delineates the part of the wall that was original and the part that has been re-created. Some of us walked down (and, of course, back up) the 100+ steps to King Herod’s palace, which this had been around the beginning of the first century. We understand he was carried down and up by slave, but we enjoyed the exercise.

We went from Masada to an oasis operated by a kibbutz that provided both lunch and an opportunity to wade or float in the Dead Sea. We did both and found the water temperature tolerable and the floating fun. With a salt content of 27%, we sought to avoid getting salt in our eyes. This was a fun adventure in our days of touring.

The next site was Qumran, where a shepherd boy discovered the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947. Naim has some archeological experiences and told us of the unfolding of this huge find. He has had opportunity to talk to the boy. It is believed that an Essene monastery was at this site and responsible for the scrolls found here.

As we left the valley to head back up to Bethlehem, some took the chance to ride a camel, as several were at the side of the road ready to be climbed up on. That was fun also. The ones who tried it did well and made it look like they were old pros at this skill. We might add that the camel was most cooperative and patient as well. Some shopping and a fine dinner ended our day. Tomorrow is church here at Christmas Lutheran Church. We await each new day with anticipation.