A Daytrip: Part 1

On Monday, we took a day trip to Masada and the Dead Sea with some friends from church and a visiting YWAM team. It was about an hour drive from Jerusalem, so on the way we stopped at the "Sea Level" point where a nice bedouin was offering camel rides.  We didn't bite on the 3 minute, 20 shekel ride, but it was fun to see Sushi the Camel up close and personal.

Doesn't he look like he's smiling? I love camels.

I forgot about the magic the car seat works on our little girl since she hasn't ridden in one for months.

Masada was the location of one of Herod's palaces back before and around the time of Jesus. It is situated at the top of the huge stone mountain seen below, and there are two ways to get up: ride a cable car or hike. We wanted the authentic experience, so in nearly 90 degree desert heat, we saddled Charis up in the front pack and began the ascent on what is referred to as "The Snake Path." In the end, it was worth it; on the way, it was pretty brutal.

The beginning of our journey

While Masada is famous for being one of Herod's palaces, it is most remembered as the Jews' last stand before Romans completely took control around 70 B.C. Rome had pretty much taken everything over at that point, and about 960 of the remaining had gathered at Masada to escape Roman power. Rome set up base camps around the mountain, built a ramp up to the fortress (both of which can still be seen), and eventually came up to take the control.

The Jews, knowing of the Romans impending attack, cast lots among themselves to kill each other before the Romans arrived in a final effort to retain their dignity. No one committed suicide (until the last man), and when the Romans arrived, they had no further work to do. The account was written down by Josephus, who was told of the events by two women and five children who had escaped.

The Dead Sea is in the background with Jordan beyond that.

We were amazed that this color was original! I think we need some tips on how to make paint last from these guys.

After we looked around for a while and hiked back down, we took a quick stop at the Dead Sea for a swim. Since Zach had already been in a few years ago, he kept the baby while I took a dip and experienced the crazy floating sensation.

Not sure why I look like I'm wearing a size 15 shoe in this picture, but what fun!

Camels again...and this time a Mama and baby.

Coming soon: Part 2 (Ein Gedi and Qumran)