By Dr. Randall Smith
Courtesy of Christian Travel Study Programs, Ltd.
After the 2nd century Bar Kochva rebellion against the Romans, Jews were banned from Jerusalem. Many of them headed north to the Galilee and settled in the Golan Heights. By the time 200 years had passed, there were nearly three dozen thriving, prosperous settlements in the region. One of them was Qatzrin.
Several buildings at Qatzrin have been restored, allowing visitors to actually experience village life from over 1500 years ago. Ruins on view in the ancient city include remains from the town’s main synagogue and its impressive arched entrance, engraved symbols of the Jewish people, and inscriptions dedicated to well-known figures of the period. Rabbi Eliezer HaKappav established the synagogues of this region after the exile, and Qatzrin best exemplifies the workmanship of these houses of learning from the period of the Talmud’s completion.
The audio-visual programs at Qatzrin’s ancient town are so fascinating that it actually keeps grade-schoolers mute for 15 minutes. In one program, a Talmudic issue is discussed within the framework of the Sanhedrin – the Jewish courts – in an up-to-date and refreshing manner. In another, the Golan Residence Committee has offered stunning views of all the seasons in this beautiful, rugged area.
© Christian Travel Study Programs, Ltd.
