I never thought that one day I would go to Jerusalem and feel the mysterious religious charm of the "Holy City" of the three religions.
After a 15-hour flight from Beijing, it was only when the hot sun shone on my body and the Hebrew language surrounded my ears that I realized that I was really here. Regarding coming to Jerusalem, it is not so much a journey as it is a crossing, a destination destined to be extraordinary.
First introduction to the "Holy City" Jerusalem
Jerusalem is located at the top of the Judean Mountains. It is the center of the Jewish state and spiritual life, and is also one of the centers of ancient religious activities. This is a city with 4,000 years of civilization, full of memories of the times. War and rise and fall. Its charm mainly comes from its mysterious and sacred religious color. Jerusalem is the only holy city in the world recognized as the source of faith and spiritual pointer by the three major religions - Judaism , Islam, and Christianity (Catholicism).
For Christians (Catholics), this is the holy place where Jesus preached the gospel, carried the cross, was crucified, and resurrected. There are well-preserved historical monuments here, attracting millions of believers from all over the world to come here to worship and admire. For non-believers, the most attractive thing about Jerusalem is the unique stone quality of its urban architecture. At dusk, the entire city is filled with golden luster, bright and beautiful, and the "holiness" of the holy city is self-evident. . Today's Jerusalem is a vibrant and prosperous city and the seat of the central government. Here, you can drive a jeep, travel on a camel, live in a tent, and enjoy the aroma of Middle Eastern coffee.
Travel through time and space, the style of the ancient city of Jerusalem
The stories about the old city of Jerusalem are enough to write three thick history books. In 1981, the ancient city of Jerusalem and the Wailing Wall were included in the "World Heritage List", and the World Heritage Committee evaluated : As a holy place for the three religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, Jerusalem has a very high symbolic significance.
Here, humanities, religions and historical monuments sometimes complement each other, and sometimes they are peaceful. Strolling through the old city, you can feel the long years accumulated on the ancient rocky roads. The churches and temples silently witnessed the entire process of changes in the world. This world-famous ancient city of only 1 square kilometer is divided into four major areas, surrounded by a city wall. The city is divided into 4 districts:
Christian District: the largest district, located in the northwest of the old city, where the famous martyrdom of Jesus occurred The church is located in this district.
Jewish Quarter: Located in the south of the old city, the famous Wailing Wall is located in this district, which is the holiest place in Judaism.
Muslim Quarter: Located in the east of the old city, the famous Round Stone Mosque is said to be the place where Muhammad ascended to the sky at night.
Armenian District: Located in the southwest corner of the old city, it is the smallest district.
Church of the Holy Sepulcher , the place closest to Jesus
We spent an afternoon "wandering" in the Christian District. What shocked me most was the scene in the "Church of the Holy Sepulcher". The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is also known as the "Hall of Resurrection".
The solemn Church of the Resurrection
The "Church of the Holy Sepulcher" is said to be the place where Jesus Christ was killed, buried and resurrected. It is a Christian holy place and one of the Christian cathedrals in Jerusalem. Therefore, here you can see devout believers from all over the world kneeling on the wooden board where Jesus lay after his crucifixion, kissing and touching it, and wiping off the dust. Although I am not a Christian, I am still deeply attracted by the scene in front of me. move!
Although the Church of the Holy Sepulcher is a pilgrimage center for Christians, it is also an ancient building full of history. The ancient bricks and tiles, the majestic hall, the totems full of complex mysteries and the exquisite furnishings all demonstrate its majestic and solemn religious atmosphere. Even ordinary tourists without religious beliefs must visit such a "holy place". ", with a pure heart and calm mind, whispering in a low voice, retaining the original piety.
The Wailing Wall, may God hear the prayer of hope
The Wailing Wall, also known as the "Western Wall", is the only remaining site of the ancient city wall in the Jewish Temple courtyard. It is located in the Old City of Jerusalem, on the west side of the Temple Mount. It can be said that it is One of the holiest sites in the Jewish faith besides the Temple Mount itself.This stone wall, which is only 50 meters long and 18 meters high, has experienced countless disputes and carried too much joy, anger, sorrow and joy.
Looking at the Wailing Wall like this is still very spectacular
For thousands of years, when Jews living in all corners of the world returned to the holy city of Jerusalem, they would come to this stone wall to pray quietly and cry out about the pain of exile, so it is called "Wailing Wall". People write their wishes on small pieces of paper and stuff them into the gaps in the wall. If the gods hear their sincere prayers, they will make their wishes come true.
What is strange is that the Wailing Wall also has separate areas for men and women to pray. The men prayed on one side and the women on the other. The sounds of these prayers are like some kind of shouting. When hundreds of Jews pray like this, the power of that shouting is very shocking!
Wailing Wall Heritage Foundation～
From wandering and hesitating to being firm and calm, the fate of the Wailing Wall and the Jews have long been closely linked. Bless you, Jerusalem, may you be smiling every sunrise and moonrise. Mahane Yehuda Market
The story of the Old City of Jerusalem still continues, and now the residents in the ancient city live in harmony. Every day, different believers wearing unique costumes walk through the streets and alleys, which is also a scene in the old city. The exotic atmosphere becomes even more intense when you visit the Arab market (Shuk). The vendors sell a dazzling array of goods, silk fabrics, precious stones, porcelain, tourist souvenirs and religious supplies. Sit down in this small place where the three faiths are both integrated and conflicting. Enjoying an afternoon tea is truly a magical experience.
Products with a strong regional flavor
When we came to the Mahane Yehuda market, this is the largest and oldest comprehensive market in Jerusalem that has existed for more than a hundred years. Many streets in this market are crooked, like entering a maze, and it is easier to get lost. Most of the shops here sell fruits and vegetables, seafood and meat, agricultural and sideline products and various Israeli desserts. Daily necessities and even jewelry are also available. In addition, the spices in the Middle East are very famous. The varieties of spices here are very rich, many of which are hard to name. . There are many small restaurants here selling local food.
But the most interesting thing here is that it is a huge farmers market during the day, but at night, it transforms into a nightlife paradise! Restaurants, bars, and food stalls also have everything you want, and people are drinking and drinking. This huge contrast really makes people feel cute. 6~
The Dead Sea can not only float, but also beautify?
The Dead Sea is located at the junction of Israel, Palestine, Jordan. It is the lowest lake in the world, with an altitude of -430 meters. The salt content reaches an astonishing 30%. It is the third most salty water body in the world, so no living things can survive in the water. Even on the land along the Dead Sea, there are very few creatures other than aquatic plants. This is one of the reasons why people named it the Dead Sea. And because the Dead Sea is surrounded by land and is not connected to other rivers and oceans, it has no tides. Phenomenon.
Dead Sea, completely blue
In order to experience the legendary floating in the Dead Sea, I couldn't wait to find the newspaper when I arrived at the hotel...Do you still remember what was said in the junior high school physics class? Here, you can never sink. Even if you don't know how to swim, everyone can lie in the water and read a newspaper. It's so happy.
In fact, there is another reason that attracts people from all over the world. It is because of the recuperation, health care, and beauty functions of the Dead Sea water and Dead Sea mud. It is said that the black mud at the bottom of the Dead Sea is rich in minerals. Skin care and beauty products with high content of Dead Sea ingredients can achieve the effects of brightening skin color, improving dullness, deep cleansing, and reducing wrinkles, so it has also become a valuable product in Israel and Jordan. Export products, today I finally saw its true face with my own eyes, so I have to take a dip, it is a worthwhile trip!
Because of the high salt concentration, people will be covered in a layer of white salt frost just a few minutes after entering the water... When the lake water enters the eyes, it will feel like you are going to be blind... But! These astonishing and even terrifying descriptions do not detract from its beauty.There are beauty sanatoriums and resorts everywhere on the shore. Business is very prosperous, and people are also enjoying the unique fun brought by the Dead Sea.
However, I have to seriously remind everyone here that if you have a wound on your body, even a small damage will be extremely painful due to high-concentration flooding. Therefore, friends with wounds should not go into the sea to avoid "anti-inflammation" of the wound. An experience that is worse than death. Freely galloping, from the Dead Sea to the desert
What is it like to ride a modified Jeep in a desert with a temperature of 46°C?
We were led by a local nomad driver. The road was rugged with sand and rocks, and a stretch of Gobi desert. We were riding freely on a special highway in the Judean Desert. Looking at the scenic road and the puff of smoke that were quickly moving away behind us, we felt like It's like being on another free planet...
And from the Dead Sea to Tel Aviv, you will pass through a place called Kefar Hanokdim. If you want to feel the fun of immersing yourself in a foreign land while traveling, then Kefar Hanokdim is definitely not the place to go. will disappoint you. It can be a travel destination, a resort, or a small village where locals live. It won't take long after you stay here to feel a familiar sense of integration. "I am also a member of the tribe" may not be an illusion.
The local guide also took us to ride camels to roam the desert, but the high temperature of 46°C was really daunting. The sand and stones in the desert were shining brightly from the sun. Looking from a distance, heat waves were rushing towards us in layers (yes, I also wore dark clothes, which made me laugh at the temperature). After walking for 15 minutes, we decided to go back... This was probably just a warm-up project for the "desert boating" camels... It was better to go back to cool and comfortable The resort is even more enjoyable!
Entering the Holy Land of Religion and Culture, Lake of Galilee
No matter how free and joyful our journey is, there is still a religious country of faith here. We are on the border between the northeastern part of Israel and Syria . There are stretches of mountains and a blue lake at the foot of the mountains. This is the beautiful Lake of Galilee. Here, morning and evening are sunny and rainy, and the lakes and mountains have different colors, attracting tourists from all over. The Lake of Galilee is not only beautiful, it is also a holy place for religion and culture.
The Orthodox church is particularly beautiful in red and white.
At that time, two French archaeologists discovered the remains of a synagogue here. It is a Corinthian-style building and has been confirmed to be a first-century building. They believe that in the fourth century AD, after Jesus, The city "Capernaum" was gradually established here, and Jesus began his ministry here. Regardless of the branch of Christianity, Capernaum’s sacred status cannot be denied. The picture shows the Orthodox church by the Lake of Galilee. You see, the intricate and ornate stonework including the imaginary image of the Ark of the Covenant and the golden menorah clearly indicate that this building was once a synagogue, making it an impressive and unforgettable sight.
Amazing, it turns out that Israel also has "people's communes"!
Even if you don’t come to Israel, you can’t imagine what “kibbutz ( kibbutz )” is!
"Kibbutz" in Israel means "group" in Hebrew. The Israeli government stipulates that a kibbutz is an organization for people to settle. It organizes its members on the basis of total ownership of property. A collective society with no private property. Its aim is do-it-yourself, equality and cooperation in all areas of production, consumption and education. ——From a Chinese perspective, we can simply understand it as the Israeli version of "people's communes" or "socialist farms", or it can also be understood as a "utopian" life in the eyes of Westerners.
Here, everyone does what they can and gets what they need. Everyone works and lives together. There is no private territory or private property. All leisure projects are free and can be enjoyed equally. The annual profits created by everyone are also discussed and shared equally. The interpersonal relationships are harmonious and friendly, and gatherings are like a grand holiday party for the whole family...
's attitude towards life with low material desires and an equal lifestyle for everyone makes our group of friends feel very magical.Although my country also had a period of "people's communes", I have not been able to experience it. It is really strange to experience the feeling of "equality" and "equal production" in Israel this time!
At Kibbutz Deganya B on the shores of Lake Galilee, we were also invited to participate in the Shavuut Music Festival. The locals set up stalls to provide snacks and entertainment projects for everyone for free. You can make flower garlands with your own hands and watch the watermelon eating competition. You can also go on stage and sing a song. Smile is the most important thing here!
Our group of friends had a great time here and were willing to give the same or even more smiles and pleasant positive energy as the best return to Kibbutz Deganya B. The beautiful scenery and historical sites under the flames of war, Golan Heights
From ancient times to the present, the Syrian-Israeli border has always attracted special attention due to the never-ending wars and disputes. It is not an exaggeration to say that it is a "land of right and wrong", but it is In such a place that is "monitored" by the United Nations, there is a place with incredible beauty and historical sites - the Golan Heights. These four words came into our view.
The Golan Heights is located in northern Israel. It is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Israel and an important water source for Israel. The eastern part of the highlands is dotted with volcanic rocks, while the southern and western parts are steep cliffs overlooking the Jordan Rift Valley. Lake of Galilee and Yarmouk River. It is also rich in sweet strawberries and various berries, which are pure and delicious and well-known in Europe.
When you stand at a high place, you can see the Syrian-Israeli border and Mount Hermon not far away. Those with good eyesight can also see the small villages in Syria, but the NATO peacekeeping guards stationed here still show the country. The atmosphere of war. But my "acrylic sisters" and I have personally tested that the Golan Heights is relatively safe and quiet. Many tourists come here to see the beautiful scenery. It can be said to be a paradise amid the war. You see, we are still I took a set of beautiful and aura-filled photos!
Not only are the people beautiful, the scenery is even more beautiful. Climbing to the top of Mount Bental, you may really understand why Israel is unwilling to give up this beautiful scenery. There are stone wall ruins 3,000 years ago and the remains of the Canaanite city of Lesh 4,000 years ago. Places that could only appear in history books before are now in front of us. The Jewish pursuit of faith has not been lost to time. A thousand-year dream, looking back for a moment, was there once a girl who left a smile here?
Bet Mountain has never been just about humanities, scenery, or history.
Then we came to Tzefat, the highest city in Israel and one of the four holy cities. It is the mysterious and ancient Jewish church center.
The old-fashioned way you imagine does not exist here. The quiet and fresh atmosphere here is perfect for travel and vacation. You will also be impressed by the leisurely and contented life attitude of the locals. It seems that you can find little surprises at every turn of the street corner. In the windows The dazzling array of novel designs of artworks and handicrafts will make you unable to take your eyes away. Every store makes you want to pick something to take home, and the Mediterranean-style buildings in various shades of blue are definitely the place to visit. Collect beautiful natural backgrounds while walking, and you might even discover the next “influencer check-in spot.”
The Hanging Garden of the World - Baha'i Garden
Haifa. It is said that this name is related to the Hebrew hof yafe, which means "beautiful coast". It is a port city in northern Israel, bordering the Mediterranean Sea to the west and backed by Gac. Mishan is the third largest city in Israel, after Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. It is also the largest port city in Israel. This city with a population of less than 300,000 has produced three Nobel Prize winners, Intel, Microsoft, Global high-tech giants such as Google, Apple, and IBM all have R&D centers here, so it is also known as "Israel's Silicon Valley."
When we arrived in Haifa, our friends drove an extra 100 kilometers just to see the true appearance of the most famous garden here - Bahai Gardens.
The Baha'i Garden, also known as the "Sky Garden" and the "World Center", is a holy place for young religions.It is backed by the foothills of Mount Carmel, which is famous as the "Mountain of God". Looking down from the observation deck of Mount Carmel, you will find that the golden dome of the Báb Mausoleum is the center. The entire garden is divided into 19 huge steps. , and the views on the left and right sides of the stairs are completely symmetrical, serving as the central axis of the garden, it stretches all the way to the German Street at the bottom, and beyond to the Mediterranean Sea. Looking around, the scenery is vast and majestic. No wonder it was designated by UNESCO in 2008. The organization is included in the World Heritage List!
The star city with the sun and the moon - Tel Aviv-Old Jaffa
Tel Aviv-Old Jaffa, located in the south of Tel Aviv, on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, is an ancient city with thousands of years of history. Most of the city is now the residence of some artists. , studios and some art shops scattered throughout.
Speaking from my deepest feelings, Tel Aviv is like the moon, beautiful and tolerant, and the people are like twinkling stars, illuminating this city that never sleeps; while Jaffa is like the sun, thousands of sails pass by under the scorching sun, and every brick and stone is left behind. Traces of light carving by the years.
I walked around the old city along the intricate alleys and stone paths that record thousands of years of history. I was not too worried about getting lost because there would be surprises at every corner. I can find many interesting shops and posters here. This is also the "endorsement city" for the 12 constellations, with fountains for the 12 constellations, alleys named after the 12 constellations, and wishing bridges for the 12 constellations. You can slowly look for the signs of your own constellations and check in to take photos. It is a quiet and remote place, suitable for those who live a slow life to "waste time". Even if you look at the sun rising and setting over the Mediterranean Sea, your heart will be overflowing with comfort and happiness.
Epilogue
If you are conquered by Israel’s religious charm;
If you are attracted by Israel’s ancient scenery;
If you are moved by Israel’s tolerance,
Then, it’s time to pack your bags and invite three or five close friends to go with you. The most magnificent scenery here is suitable for enjoying with the right people; the most profound humanistic feelings are suitable for sharing with the same soul. May you feel the joy in your heart here, and may you open your eyes to see a more profound future here.
