Israel Warns Russia!

{image_1} It is rare to read a headline that says, “Israel warns Russia!” Recent reports suggesting that Russia is on the verge of selling the advanced electronic warfare S-300 anti-aircraft missile system to Iran caused Israel to threaten to neutralize the S-300 and its salability.

Living in Bible Times

By Cheryl Hauer, International Development Director

{image_1} One of the most common statements uttered by Christians as they explore the Land of Israel is, “It would have been so wonderful to have been here during Bible times.” Their minds are filled with first-century images of quaint villages in the Galilee, the mighty Temple in Jerusalem, and eager crowds gathering to listen as itinerant rabbis preach from hillsides—definitely “Bible times” images. But those images are no more so than the exciting and diverse sights and sounds that are everyday life in this remarkable nation today.

Israeli Wave Energy in China

{image_1}Israeli company S.D.E. Energy, developer of an innovative technology for generating electricity from sea waves, has signed an agreement for selling sea wave power plants in China. Construction of the power plants will be financed by investors from Hong Kong and China. Two joint venture companies will build an initial model in southern China. If successful, it will launch the establishment of sea wave power plants throughout China.

Yom Kippur Traditions

{image_1} Each of the biblical feasts has a symbolic food associated with it—even Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), the most severe fast of the year. A pre-fast feast helps worshippers make it through the 25-hour fast, which is observed much like a Shabbat (Sabbath) meal, except it is eaten before sundown. Table linens and clothing are white to symbolize the hope of sins forgiven. The best dishes are used, two candles are lit, and blessings over the wine and bread are recited. Sometimes the bread is decorated with birds to remind them that just as birds fly, so their prayers will rise quickly and be answered.

Germans and Israelis dig together

{image_1} There were some 50 German theology students digging at the site, led by Professor Dr. Manfred Oeming. In addition to excavating at the site, the students attended academic lectures and went on tours to important religious and historical sites around Israel, including the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial in Jerusalem.

Hamas Successfully Rearming

{image_1} Shin Bet Director Yuval Diskin painted a bleak picture of recent occurrences in Gaza and East Jerusalem during a government meeting. “Since the ceasefire began, four tons of explosives have been transferred into the Strip for Hamas, as well as 50 anti-tank missiles, light arms, and materials for Kassam manufacture—metal rods and gunpowder,” he said. “Most of the smuggling is taking place by land, through tunnels. Hamas has taken control of the tunnels in the area. There is Egyptian action aimed to prevent the smuggling, but there have been no special reports lately.”

Hamas Demands 1,000 for Shalit

{image_1}Gilad Shalit, a young Israeli soldier, was kidnapped in August of 2006 and is being held captive at an undisclosed location while Hamas negotiates with Israel for 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for his release.

The  Feasts of the Lord

{image_1}September–October always begins a new year for the Jewish people, but the Bible never calls these special days “Jewish” feasts. In Leviticus 23, they are referred to as the “feasts of the Lord.” Our faith life has been greatly enriched as we celebrate His feasts. We encourage you to add these feasts to your celebratory cycle.

Lifeguard Rescues Ancient Discus

{image_1} In the last issue of the Dispatch from Jerusalem, we highlighted the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) Theft Prevention Unit and, in particular, a bust they made on a man in Haifa who was stealing artifacts from underwater sites along Israel’s northern coastline. In this issue, we’re proud to highlight an underwater discovery of another kind that was brought to the attention of the proper authorities.

“Skunk” on Riot Patrol

{image_1} Out with rubber bullets, tear gas, shock grenades; in with new, stinky means to scatter violent rioters. The Israeli Border Guard has begun using a new means of contending with riots, coined “Skunk.” The police developed this new method for scattering violent demonstrations and tested its effectiveness in August.

Nasrallah Calls for United Lebanese Front

{image_1} Two years after the Second Lebanon War and the day Israel buried the two Israel Defense Forces reservists Eldad Regev and Udi Goldwasser taken captive by Hizbullah, Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah [secretary-general of Hizbullah] rejoiced, declared victory, and called for a united Lebanese front. It is no secret that since the war, Hizbullah has succeeded in replenishing its arsenal three-fold. Israel has estimated that the terrorist organization has in its possession over 40,000 long- and short- range rockets. Hizbullah continues to enjoy heavy Syrian and Iranian support.

Bullae Identify King Zedekiah’s Ministers

{image_1} In her ongoing excavations at the City of David in Jerusalem, Dr. Eilat Mazar has made yet another incredible discovery. Her team found a clay bulla (seal impression) inscribed with the name “Gedaliah Ben Pashchur.”