Philosateleia
Kevin Blackston
PO Box 217
Floresville TX 78114-0217
United States of America

En Gedi

Southern District, Israel

Surrounded by cliffs and mountains about 30 miles southeast of Jerusalem, En Gedi is the largest oasis on the Dead Sea’s western shore, and one of only two sites on the western shore at which thirsty travelers can find freshwater springs.1 2 En Gedi’s name means “spring of the kid”; the ibex and other animals depend on the spring’s abundant waters, which flow in marked contrast to the hot, dry surrounding terrain.3

According to 1 Samuel 23, King David sought refuge at En Gedi when he was being pursued by Saul.4 Today, the oasis is less of a hideout and more of a health spa, with visitors enjoying mud baths and dips in the nearby Dead Sea.5

70-agorot Israeli postage stamp picturing En Gedi in Southern District
En Gedi

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References

  1. Ein Gedi. BibleWalks.com. 13 June 2013. Accessed 8 Jan. 2014.
  2. En Gedi. BiblePlaces.com. Accessed 8 Jan. 2014.
  3. Ein Gedi: an Ancient Oasis Settlement. Jewish Virtual Library. Accessed 8 Jan. 2014.
  4. The Holy Bible, New King James Version. Nashville, Tenn.: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1988.
  5. Ein Gedi. Israel. Accessed 8 Jan. 2014.

Published 2018-06-18 Last updated 2021-01-17