Image Details

Richard Nowitz

The fertile soil of the Beth-Shean Valley provided abundantly for the Jews living in Rehov in ancient times, as it does for farmers at Kibbutz Nir David (shown here) today. Located at the foot of Mt. Gilboa, the kibbutz is less than 10 miles from Rehov.

According to author Aaron Demsky, the focus on agricultural laws in the Rehov synagogue inscription reflects a uniquely Jewish understanding of the Land of Israel: Holiness is found in working the land and eating its produce.