Magical Israel: A Journey Through 5,000 Years of History Season 1 Episode 2 From Jerusalem to Be'er Sheba
- July 20, 2010
- 29 min
As our journey through the rich history of Israel continues, we embark on a fascinating trip from Jerusalem to Be'er Sheba, the gateway to the Negev Desert. In this episode, we explore the stories, spirituality, and legacy of the ancient lands of Israel.
We begin in Jerusalem, the "City of Gold," which has been a melting pot of cultures and religions for over 3,000 years. We visit the Western Wall, the last remaining structure of the Second Temple, and the holiest site in Judaism. Here, we witness the prayerful devotion of Jewish worshippers and hear the stories of the Wall's turbulent history.
From Jerusalem, we journey south to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, and a sacred site for Christians worldwide. Here we explore the Church of the Nativity, built on the spot where Jesus was believed to have been born. We learn about the story of the Nativity and how it has inspired pilgrims for centuries.
Continuing our journey, we visit the ancient city of Jericho, known as the "City of Palm Trees." Jericho is famous for being the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, dating back over 11,000 years. We explore the ruins of the ancient city and hear the stories of its rich history.
Next, we visit the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth and a natural wonder steeped in history and legend. We learn about the health benefits of the mineral-rich waters and explore the stories of the sea's significance to the region's ancient cultures.
As we travel further south, we reach the Negev Desert, a vast, arid expanse of land that covers over half of Israel's territory. Here, we explore the ancient trade routes that crisscrossed the desert and learn about the cultures that flourished here throughout history.
Finally, we arrive in Be'er Sheba, the "City of Abraham," where we explore the stories and legacy of the biblical patriarch. Here, we visit Tel Be'er Sheba, an ancient settlement dating back over 5,000 years, and learn about the city's role in the history of the region.
Throughout this episode, we meet the people who call these ancient lands home and learn about the struggles and triumphs that have shaped their lives. From Jerusalem to Be'er Sheba, we discover the magic of Israel, a land steeped in history, tradition, and spirituality.