Wednesday, May 1

Wednesday morning we started in Jerusalem in the part that is called the city of David, the site of the original city. We walked through an ancient water tunnel that was built to bring fresh water into the city of David. The long dark tunnel flowed with cold fresh water below our knees, except for a few surprise higher spots. It was a fun way to start our exploration of the history of Israel . Then we went to the Old City and prayed at the Kotel, the Western Wall from the ancient Holy Temple. The day was very hot but most of the students found the experience to be very meaningful. After that we enjoyed the lunch of our choice in the shade of outdoor cafes in the Old City. Then we got on our bus and left Jerusalem to drive down into the Negev desert to a Bedouin encampment. We climbed onto camels and had alot of fun riding in a caravan through the desert. After our ride we had a chance to learn from a Bedouin at the Encampment about the Bedouin culture and values. We were surprised to hear that in their families you can have up to 4 wives. We also learned how respect and hospitality are very important values. After the lesson on their culture and life style we had a Bedouin style dinner in a huge tent siting on mattress pads on the ground. Before going to bed in sleeping bags in the huge tent we had a bonfire and played some games with our counselor Ohri. Next morning, up early to see the sunrise on Massada!