Rain

BS"D

We are the thanking HaShem for the much needed rain for the past three days. The Kinneret is filling up!

Hamat Teveria- Ancient Synagogue

Simchat Artzenu recently enjoyed a visit to the ancient synagogue at Hamat Teveria dating from the 4th century. One of the key remains is the mosaic floor which has been remarkably preserved and belongs to the Severus Synagogue. There are three inscriptions in the mosaic: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. This is extremely significant from the Talmudic period. It is evident in the inscriptions how paganism influenced the designer.

Hannukah Beit- House Dedication

We recently had a Hannukah Beit or House Dedication for our new home in Teveria. Follow the link to see the photos:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/album.php?aid=2035249&id=1591477762

Teveria -Update

We have finally settled in Teveria. We will update when we can. Shabbat Shalom.

Tiberias (Teveria)

Tiberias (Teveria) was established by Herod Antipas approximately 20 CE. in honor of the Roman Emperor Tiberius. He used the city as a seat of his power of operation throughout the Galilee. It is claimed the city remained royal to Rome, thus being spared any destruction as in other cities which were destroyed.

Teveria is one of the four holy cities of Israel; the others are Jerusalem, Safed, and Hevron. Teveria was where the Sanhedrin was established during the Second Temple period. Many of the great Sages of Israel are buried there including Maimonides, RamBam,

Rabbi Akiva, Rabbi Ben Zakkai, Rabbi Meir Baal Hanesse, and Rabbi Haim Abulafya.

Many sources cite the writing of the Jerusalem Talmud in Teveria as well as the Mishna composed by Rabbi Yehuda

Ben-Ha-Nasi.

Relocation

Simchat Artzenu will be relocating to the northern part of the country in the next several weeks. So, as soon as we are settled, we will update you again.

Hebron

We were in Hebron last Wednesday for the first time. It truly was an awesome experience. Since the week's parsha was Chai Sarah, it was especially significant.