On Wednesday, we were treated to a tour of a famous archeological site, Tzippori. We started the journey at the Roman theater, where we learned about the shaping of the early Talmud through everyday conundrums for the Rabbis. Can an observant Jew go to a Roman theater? The Rabbis created the grand Jewish tradition of positive argument based on everyday problems posed by their congregations. We got a great lesson on this conflict of Roman and Jewish values from the younger portion of our group, who acted out several advertisements, one for a very multicultural city, and one for a thriving Jewish city. Both were Tzippori! We saw firsthand how Jewish influences and Roman culture overlapped in a semi-restored Roman reception room. The mosaics included the famous Mona Lisa of the Galilee (pictured).
After visiting a synagogue with Roman style mosaics it was time to go, and this time we were headed for a Druze village, Dalyat al Karmel. The Druze are famous for their hospitality and we were treated to this firsthand as we enjoyed a varied delicious lunch while learning about Druze culture. Just when we had finished with the delicious plates of food and were ready to leave, we were surprised by a traditional Druze musician who had come to play for us. We learned about the traditional Druze dances and instruments, before having to say goodbye.
We then made our way to Tel Aviv, the most vibrant and happening place in Israel. When we arrived, we did not jump into the cosmopolitan excitements of the city; rather we toured the neighboring city of Jaffa, visiting its older sections. We navigated tight alleyways and visited old sites such as a wishing bridge. The day closed with a lesson about the history of Tel Aviv and a story about its founding, then we enjoyed a free evening in the city. I feel that this was one of our most exciting days!
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