Thank G-d, the access to the city is now easier, and we brought three
groups, on three different days of Hanukka into the city, and we
visited important sites.
Hasmonean Palaces
Hanukka 1st candle
The Hasmonean Palaces is an important
archaeological site on the south-west side of Jericho. These winter
palaces were built by the third-generation Hasmonean kings, after they
became corrupt. King Herod subsequently also built his winter palace in
the same area. The site bears witness to the fact that Jericho was a
major Jewish centre at that time. The site was excavated and reserched
by the veteran archaeologist Ehud Netzer (who tragically died
recently). Unfortunately Arab building is slowly encroaching into the
site, but the Israel Antiquities Authority is doing little to prevent
this.
Near-by is a large Jewish graveyard, where the
Cohanim (priests) who served in the Second Temple are buried. It is the
biggest priestly graveyard in the world. Unfortunately, thogh we
planned to go there, we were not able to do so, due to Arab building between the Palaces site and the graveyard.
Film (in Hebrew) & Picture Album of the Event
Hasmonean Palaces Tour - Tourguide Erna Kovos, filmed by Rina Koshland
Tour and Study at the Shalom Al Israel Synagoue in Jericho
Hanukka 2nd Candle
We toured the ancient Shalom al Israel synagogue
in Jericho with the Nir Yeshiva from Kiriat Arba- Hevron, and also
heard lessons from Rav Avi Shmutrich and Rav David Potesh.
2. Study with Rav Avi Shmutrich and Rav Rav David Potesh in the study hall (on the first floor, above the ancient synagogue):
Listen Download as MP3 (right click)
Tour of Jericho Synagogues and Jordan River Crossing
Hanukka 5th Candle
We
toured the ancient Shalom al Israel and Naaran synagogues
in Jericho, and visited the Kaser El Yehud site, where Joshua brought
the Children of Israel across the Jordan River into the Land of Israel
(See the Book of Joshua Ch1). A large group from Netanya participated.
Hasmonean Palaces
