Hello! This past week has been a really big one in terms of Tiyulim, as we went on an overnight trip to Jerusalem and Masada, and it has been amazing. We were learning about a really important time in Jewish history, regarding the destruction of the second Temple.

While we were in Jerusalem we went to the southern wall and looked at these ruins found under a yeshiva by the Kotel. They showed us how the people at that time lived, and we got to literally trace the steps of our ancestors, which was really special, especially as it was sukkot at the time. The next day we hiked up Masada, which was absolutely amazing, and the sunset was so beautiful. Once we were on top of the mountain we got to explore. We saw ancient mikvahs, temples, bathhouses, and giant storage units for food, while at the same time we learned about their role and significance in society at the time. One of the coolest things I learned was that the mikvahs that the Jews on top of Masada built match the requirements of modern-day mikvahs.

Also we got to discuss the dilemma of the Jews who lived on Masada as the Romans attacked, in the exact same place that they had the same discussion. This week it finally hit me that I am learning about history in the place that it actually happened. A huge part of this program is the fact that you learn outside, getting up close and personal with the land you are learning about, rather than sitting in a classroom. It has been super fun and cool, but it hadn’t registered that I have literally been standing in the places I’ve been learning about, that I am literally tracing the steps of my ancestors. However, these past couple tiyulim it’s really hit me that I am standing in the places where history happened, and if I try hard enough I can picture it happening right before my eyes. It does take a little imagination to picture the grandeur of everything, as nowadays everything is in ruins, but it really is magical when you are able to imagine it. It make class so much more interesting and engaging than when you are sitting in a dimly lit classroom like we do back home in America. I have been having a wonderful time here in Israel, and the hands on learning has been a key part of my experience. My friends are amazing and it is awesome to be able to go on adventures with them! I really look forward to the next three months with them!