Category: Holy Land

Jacob and Esau – Polar Opposite Twins in the Bible

Posted on by Donna Snow

Family trees throughout the Old Testament are fascinating and full of intrigue. The lineage of the Patriarchs and tribes of Israel sometimes read like a crossword clue. Jacob and Esau were twins, but far from identical twins. What was their story and how did it turn out?

Contents

Sons of Isaac

We find the account of Jacob and Esau in the Book of Genesis. They were the first sons of Isaac and his wife Rebekah: 

“Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean of Paddan Aram, the sister of Laban the Aramean, to be his wife. And Isaac prayed to the Lord for his wife, because she was barren. And the Lord granted his prayer, and Rebekah his wife conceived” (Genesis 25:20-21).

The father of Isaac was Abraham. In Genesis 15, God made a covenant with Abraham that contained divine promises of more descendants than the stars in the sky. Biblical history has proved that true. Consequently, Jacob and Esau were the grandsons of Abraham, the first Patriarch of God’s people. 

Two Nations in One Womb

After struggling to conceive, God’s blessings showered on Rebekah and she became pregnant with twin boys. However, they were already fighting in the womb:

“The children struggled together within her, and she said, ‘If it is thus, why is this happening to me?’ So she went to inquire of the Lord. And the Lord said to her, ‘Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you shall be divided; the one shall be stronger than the other, the older shall serve the younger‘” (Genesis 25:22-23). 

If you have siblings, perhaps you can relate to struggling with your sister or brother after birth. However, from the moment they could move, Jacob and Esau struggled.

Related post: What Does the Bible Teach About a Pure Heart?

pure heart

Twin Boys

When the twins were born, Esau came out first. However, his twin brother Jacob did not give up that easily.

“The first came out red, all his body like a hairy garment, so they called his name Esau. Afterward his brother came out with his hand holding Esau’s heel, so his name was called Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when she bore them” (Genesis 25:25-26).

Did you notice Isaac’s age? He was forty years old when he married Rebekah. For twenty years, they struggled through the desert of infertility. Many parents can relate to that pain. Imagine the pure joy of Isaac and Rebekah as they held their twin sons who had been long prayed for.

Related post: 100 Promises of God in the Bible to Strengthen Faith

Promises of God

The Damage of Favoritism

Jacob and Esau were twins, but that is where the resemblance ended. They were vastly different in personality and appearance. As the eldest son, Esau was in line to receive his father’s birthright and a double portion of his father’s inheritance. 

A biblical birthright was important because it gave the firstborn son the privilege of a double portion of the inheritance, leadership over the family, and the blessing to carry on the covenant promise. Unfortunately, we see the dark shadow of favoritism enter the picture:

“When the boys grew up, Esau was a skillful hunter, a man of the field, while Jacob was a quiet man, dwelling in tents. Isaac loved Esau because he ate of his game, but Rebekah loved Jacob” (Genesis 25:27-28).

A child tends to gravitate to the parent who possesses similar mannerisms and things they love. I see this clearly in my three sisters and me. Two of us are like Dad, and two of us are more like Mom. But Jacob and Esau were about to take those differences to another level.

Related post: Meant for Good: A Study of Joseph

Stealing the Father’s Blessing

As the younger twin, Jacob would not receive his father’s most powerful blessing: the birthright. His older twin brother Esau was first in line to receive it. Consequently, Jacob hatched a plan to steal it.

“Once when Jacob was cooking stew, Esau came in from the field, and he was exhausted. And Esau said to Jacob, ‘Let me eat some of that red stew, for I am exhausted!’ Jacob said, ‘Sell me your birthright now.’ Esau said, ‘I am about to die; of what use is a birthright to me?’ Jacob said, ‘Swear to me now.’ So he swore to him and sold his birthright to Jacob‘” (Genesis 25:29-33).

As the firstborn son of Isaac, Esau did not value the blessing. Not only that, Esau asked for an additional blessing (without repenting of his giving away the first one) after Isaac had already blessed Jacob.

Esau put his temporary, physical needs over his God-given blessing and sold his birthright to Jacob. He wanted instant gratification: a bowl of stew instead of his father’s birthright. It reminds me of when I failed to save money as a young adult. Why put $20 in savings when I could buy the latest gadget? Long-haul blessings are lost in the face of instant gratification.

Just as Jacob would not let go of his brother’s heel at birth, this second twin would not let go of receiving a lesser blessing from his father Isaac. 

Related post: What is the Biblical Meaning of Restore and Renew?

biblical meaning of restore and renew

Isaac’s Blessing

Years later, Isaac “was old and his eyes were dim so that he could not see” (Genesis 27:1). Esau’s mother, Rebekah, decided that it is time to interfere so that her favorite son Jacob would receive Isaac’s blessing instead of the older son Esau.

“Now Rebekah was listening when Isaac spoke to his son Esau. So when Esau went to the field to hunt for game and bring it, Rebekah said to her son Jacob, ‘I heard your father speak to your brother Esau, ‘Bring me game and prepare for me delicious food, that I may eat it and bless you before the Lord before I die.’ Now therefore, my son, obey my voice as I command you‘” (Genesis 27:5-8).

Rebekah set out to make Isaac a meal of the wild game he loved (much more than a bowl of soup). She dressed Jacob in Esau’s clothes and put the hairy skins of goats on his hands and neck. When Isaac reached out with poor eyesight to bless Esau who was a hairy man, he would not encounter Jacob’s smooth, hairless skin. 

The ruse worked and Isaac blessed Jacob instead of Esau. The older brother was livid: “Now Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing with which his father had blessed him” (Genesis 27:41) and determined to kill his brother Jacob. Forgiveness was not in his agenda.

Related post: Powerful Wednesday Morning Prayers and Blessings

powerful Wednesday prayers and blessings

The Story of Jacob

Jacob’s character certainly lived up to the meaning of his name, “to supplant or overreach.” He ended up running from Esau for years as he worked for his uncle Laban to marry the love of his life, Rachel. Rachel was Laban’s younger daughter. 

Laban tricked Jacob into marrying Rachel’s older sister, Leah, by switching them on his wedding night. After seven years of marriage and working for Laban, Jacob finally married Rachel. Jacob eventually moved away from Laban after working for him for fourteen years and marrying two of his daughters. During that departure trip, Jacob made peace with his brother Esau.

As the “second baby”, Jacob was not a skilled hunter or man of the open country. God had given him other gifts. God molded him into an important figure in human history and biblical history. It was God’s choice to bless Jacob with twelve sons, who eventually comprised the twelve tribes of Israel. 

It would be hard to say that Jacob lived a blessed life, but God never left his side. Jacob’s lineage and family tree included King David and eventually our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Related post: The Lineage of Jacob and His Family Tree

lineage of jacob

The Story of Esau

After selling his birthright and confronting Jacob, Esau continued to the region of Seir. The Edomites were Esau’s descendants (Esau is also known as Edom, the Hebrew word for “red”). 

Esau’s hostility towards Jacob for stealing his birthright and his share of Isaac’s inheritance passed on through his descendants. The Edomites and Israelites were separate nations and constant enemies in the Bible. The Edomites even tried to conquer Israel during the time of King Jehoshaphat but failed in the attempt.

Later in Scripture, the Edomites became a nation that was invaded and defeated by both Saul and David. They even became allies with Nebuchadnezzar, which included invading Jerusalem. They were known for their brutality and cruel actions, which gained criticism from later prophets.

The New Testament writer of Hebrews even mentions Esau: “See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal” (Hebrews 12:15-16).

Related post: Forgiveness: Received From God, Extended to Others

Forgiveness by Donna Snow

The Rest of the Story

In the end, the older did indeed serve the younger. Esau’s disdain for God is plain due to his desire to gain a blessing without repentance (Genesis 28:6) and his marriage to an Ishmaelite. As Matthew Henry writes, Esau married “only to please his father, not to please God. He rested in a partial reformation.”

Thanks to Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross and His work in our hearts by faith, you and I never rest in partial reformation.

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was difficult. Read about her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

The Lineage of Jacob and His Family Tree in the Bible

Posted on by Donna Snow

Who was this man who had a wrestling match with God? We love genealogy because it’s fascinating to understand who we descended from. Lineage is key in Scripture. A study of the lineage of Jacob leads us to the twelve tribes of Israel. 

What is one of the most astounding facts about the lineage of Jacob? Following Jacob’s family tree through the generations eventually reveals the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. 

Lineage of Jacob

Contents

Who was Jacob?

Jacob’s name first appears in the Old Testament book of Genesis. Jacob was the grandson of Abraham and the son of Isaac. The lineage of Jacob is part of Israel’s illustrious line of patriarchs. Jacob was born in Canaan, which later became the nation of Israel and God’s Promised Land to His people. 

Jacob was the second son of Isaac and Rebekah. The beginning of Jacob’s life is recorded in Genesis 25:26 – “Afterward his brother came out with his hand holding Esau’s heel, so his name was called Jacob.” Jacob was a twin, born in birth order moments after his older brother Esau.

The name Jacob means “he takes by the heel” or “he cheats.” It foreshadowed the life-altering, intense rivalry that would grow between Jacob and Esau. 

Jerusalem

Overview of Jacob’s Life

The lineage of Jacob is one of the most riveting in biblical history. Pivotal moments include rivalry, favoritism, deceit, transformation, forgiveness, and redemption. It’s an epic journey all the way to Jesus’ birth centuries later. Let’s dive in.

Jacob’s Favoritism and Sibling Rivalry

As siblings Jacob and Esau grew older, their differences became evident. Esau was a rugged outdoorsman and skilled hunter while Jacob was more of a quiet homebody (Genesis 25:27). 

Favoritism entered the scene in one devastating sentence: “Isaac loved Esau because he ate of his game, but Rebekah loved Jacob” (Genesis 25:28). Favoritism is a deadly poison in any situation, but especially in families.

One day, Esau returned from hunting exhausted and asked Jacob for some of his stew. Jacob said he would give his brother stew only if Esau sold Jacob his birthright. (A firstborn son received a double portion of his father’s inheritance as a birthright.) Esau agreed and gave his birthright to Jacob (Genesis 25:29-34). 

Later, when their father Isaac became old and was about to die, Rebekah conspired with Jacob to steal Isaac’s blessing from Esau. It’s easy to see why Jacob’s name means “he cheats,” right? 

Fearing retaliation from Esau, Jacob fled from home to seek refuge with his maternal uncle Laban. Before Jacob’s departure, Isaac blessed Jacob with God’s promise to be fruitful and multiply. He instructed Jacob to look for a wife among Laban’s daughters rather than the Canaanite women (Genesis 28:1-4).

philipi, greece

Jacob’s Marriage and Fatherhood

​A significant turning point in the lineage of Jacob and his life happened during his journey to the distant land of Haran where his uncle Laban lived. 

One night near Bethel, Jacob had a dream where he saw the angels of God ascending and descending a ladder to heaven. God said to him: “I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring” (Genesis 28:13).

God revealed the lineage of Jacob and his offspring would be blessed and become a great nation in the land of Canaan (Genesis 28:13-17). It would be a long time before God’s plan became a reality, but God left Jacob with this beautiful promise: “Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go” (Genesis 28:15). 

Isaiah 41:10

1. Jacob’s Marriages to Leah and Rachel

When Jacob reached his uncle Laban’s home, he fell head over heels in love with Laban’s youngest daughter Rachel. Jacob offered to work for Laban for seven years to secure a marriage with Rachel. 

After seven years, the wedding took place. However, Laban switched his older daughter Leah for Rachel on their wedding night without Jacob’s knowledge. Although he was furious at Laban’s underhanded trick, Jacob’s love for Rachel had not diminished. 

Jacob promised to work for Laban for another seven years to win Rachel’s hand in marriage (Genesis 29:21-30). It took perseverance to marry the only woman Jacob truly loved, but the deal was struck. After working for Laban for fourteen years, Jacob finally got to marry his beloved Rachel. 

Through this period of love, betrayal, and perseverance, God significantly transformed Jacob. The lineage of Jacob is blessed with many sons (Genesis 29-30). At the proper time, Jacob finally took his family and livestock and left Laban. 

Ancient Corinth

2. Jacob Wrestles with God

One night along the journey, Jacob wrestled with God (Genesis 32:22-32) and then was reconciled to his twin brother Esau (Genesis 33). God continued to bless Jacob and gave him a new name: Israel (Genesis 35:9-15).

rainbow

3. Jacob’s Children

God made the lineage of Jacob fruitful and blessed him with twelve sons and one daughter (Genesis 29-30). Through his wives and their maidservants, here are Jacob’s children arranged by their birth mothers:

  • Rachel: Joseph and Benjamin
  • Bilhah​ (Rachel’s maidservant): Dan and Naphtali
  • Leah:​ Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, and daughter Dinah
  • Zilpah​ (Leah’s maidservant): Gad and Asher

Each son of Jacob became their own tribe for the new nation of Israel. 

Twelve Tribes of Israel

Just as God promised, the lineage of Jacob multiplied greatly to form God’s chosen people. Their lineage stretches to this very day. 

Jacob’s sons each held a specific destiny from God as the twelve tribes of Israel. Before Jacob’s death, Jacob blessed each of his sons according to God’s instructions. 

1: Reuben

Reuben means “behold, a son” and his symbol of blessing means reckless. Jacob’s blessing to Reuben from God: 

“Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the firstfruits of my strength, preeminent in dignity and preeminent in power. Unstable as water, you shall not have preeminence, because you went up to your father’s bed; then you defiled it—he went up to my couch!” (Genesis 49:3-4)

brimstone and fire

2, 3: Simeon and Levi 

Simeon means “hearing” and Levi means “attachment.” Simeon’s and Levi’s symbols of blessing both mean violence. Jacob’s blessings to Simeon and Levi from God:

“Simeon and Levi are brothers; weapons of violence are their swords. Let my soul come not into their council; O my glory, be not joined to their company. For in their anger they killed men, and in their willfulness they hamstrung oxen. Cursed be their anger, for it is fierce, and their wrath, for it is cruel! I will divide them in Jacob and scatter them in Israel” (Genesis 49:5-7).

Warriors in the Bible: 13 Essential Life Lessons to Learn

​4: Judah

Judah means “praise” and his symbol of blessing is a lion. Jacob’s blessing to Judah from God:

“Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons shall bow down before you. Judah is a lion’s cub; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down; he crouched as a lion and as a lioness; who dares rouse him?” 

“The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.”

“Binding his foal to the vine and his donkey’s colt to the choice vine, he has washed his garments in wine and his vesture in the blood of grapes. His eyes are darker than wine, and his teeth whiter than milk” (Genesis 49:8-12).

Jesus wept

5. Zebulun

Zebulun means “abode” and his symbol of blessing is a ship. Jacob’s blessing to Zebulun from God: 

“Zebulun shall dwell at the shore of the sea; he shall become a haven for ships, and his border shall be at Sidon” (Genesis 49:13).

6. Issachar

Issachar means “reward” and his symbol of blessing is a donkey. Jacob’s blessing to Issachar from God: 

“Issachar is a strong donkey, crouching between the sheepfolds. He saw that a resting place was good, and that the land was pleasant, so he bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant at forced labor” (Genesis 49:14-15).

greece

7. Dan

Dan means “judgment” and his symbol of blessing is a serpent. Jacob’s blessing to Dan from God:

“Dan shall judge his people as one of the tribes of Israel. Dan shall be a serpent in the way, a viper by the path,
that bites the horse’s heels so that his rider falls backward. I wait for your salvation, O Lord. “Raiders shall raid Gad, but he shall raid at their heels” (Genesis 49:16-18).

8. Gad

Gad means “good fortune” and his symbol of blessing is a raider. Jacob’s blessing to Gad from God: “Raiders shall raid Gad, but he shall raid at their heels” (Genesis 49:19). 

greece

9. Asher

Asher means “happy” and his symbol of blessing is rich food. Jacob’s blessing to Asher from God: “Asher’s food shall be rich, and he shall yield royal delicacies” (Genesis 49:20). 

10. Naphtali

Naphtali means “wrestle” and his symbol of blessing is a doe. Jacob’s blessing to Naphtali from God: “Naphtali is a doe let loose that bears beautiful fawns” (Genesis 49:21).

Ephesus Turkey

11. Joseph

Joseph means “may he add” and his symbol of blessing means fruitful. He did not become a named tribe of Israel. His two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, became two half-tribes (comprising one tribe) as a double blessing to Joseph. Jacob’s blessing to Joseph from God:

“Joseph is a fruitful bough, a fruitful bough by a spring; his branches run over the wall. The archers bitterly attacked him, shot at him, and harassed him severely, yet his bow remained unmoved; his arms were made agile by the hands of the Mighty One of Jacob (from there is the Shepherd, the Stone of Israel), by the God of your father who will help you, by the Almighty who will bless you with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that crouches beneath, blessings of the breasts and of the womb.”

“The blessings of your father are mighty beyond the blessings of my parents, up to the bounties of the everlasting hills. May they be on the head of Joseph, and on the brow of him who was set apart from his brothers” (Genesis 49:22-26).

See Meant for Good, an in-depth Bible study that I wrote of the life of Joseph which contains all of this and much more.

joseph

12. Benjamin

Benjamin means “son of the right hand” and his symbol of blessing is a wolf. Jacob’s blessing to Benjamin from God: “Benjamin is a ravenous wolf, in the morning devouring the prey and at evening dividing the spoil” (Genesis 49:27).

As for these blessings, Scripture tells us: “All these are the twelve tribes of Israel. This is what their father said to them as he blessed them, blessing each with the blessing suitable to him” (Genesis 49:28).

Jacob’s blessings were prophetic over his sons’ lives, as well as those of his two grandsons Manasseh and Ephraim. God’s blessings over you and me as His children are just as powerful, personal, and prophetic. 

garden of gethsemane

The Lineage of Jesus

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was prophesied and came through the tribe of Judah (Matthew 1:1-17, Luke 3:23-38, Genesis 49:10, and Isaiah 11:1). Jesus is called the “Son of David” on a number of occasions throughout the Gospels. King David was born from Judah’s tribe.

God had promised David, the first rightful king of Israel, that his throne would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:12-13). This caused the people to long to see David’s greater son, Jesus the Messiah, who would rule forever.

As a descendant of Jacob’s line, Jesus was also rightfully called by Pilate “the king of the Jews” even though Pilate likely did not know that fact. 

longsuffering

The Rest of Jacob’s Life

Jacob showed favoritism to Joseph as the firstborn son of his beloved Rachel. Unfortunately, Jacob did not learn the collateral damage that favoritism can cause in a family based on his own history with his twin brother Esau. 

Jacob’s ten older sons hated Joseph and sold him into slavery (Genesis 37). He ended up in Egypt. After thirteen years as a slave and prisoner, God elevated Joseph to Prime Minister of the land of Egypt. The famine brings Joseph’s brothers to Egypt to buy food and the family is eventually reconciled (Genesis 39-45).

Joseph moves his entire family from Canaan to Egypt to settle in the lush area of Goshen (Genesis 46-47). Jacob lived in Egypt for seventeen years before dying at the age of 147. Following a period of mourning, Joseph and his brothers buried Jacob’s body in the land of Canaan, according to his wishes (Genesis 48-50). 

What an extraordinary man and extraordinary story! May God bless your extraordinary life in the Lord, as well.

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was difficult. Read about her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, visit her here.

donna snow

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

21 Essential Items for Your Ultimate Israel Packing List

Posted on by Donna Snow

Israel is one of my favorite places on God’s beautiful earth. Known throughout the world as the Holy Land, it is one of the planet’s foremost religious, spiritual, and cultural centers. From cosmopolitan and trendy Tel Aviv to soul-stirring and ancient Jerusalem, this country is a must-see.

I have led numerous tour groups to Israel over the years and just returned from a very special Advent tour. Visiting Bethlehem during Christmastime was truly incredible. I understand from experience the most important things you need to take in order to make your journey enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable.

Israel’s cultural, geographical, and religious diversity can make it difficult to know what to pack for your visit – especially if this is your first time. From essentials, basic necessities, Bible, spiritual growth tools, and understanding the dress code, this is a comprehensive packing list. Ready?

What to Pack for Israel – 21 Essentials

1. Power Adapter

In Israel, the power outlets require 230 V, 50 Hz, and type C and H power sockets, which is different from what we use in the United States. Though some European plugs will fit into Israeli outlets, it is best to use an international power adapter that works for nearly every country. I have used this one for years and it continues to work like a dream with hair dryers, straight irons, and everything in between. Just be sure that whatever adapter you take works in an Israeli outlet.

Ladies, I use this hairdryer, because it comes with a built-in international converter. Used with the adapter above, I have never blown a hotel outlet!

2. Pashmina Shawl/Scarf

A pashmina scarf or shawl for ladies will be endlessly useful when traveling in Israel. It can be used for layering, as a head or shoulder covering for entering holy sites, tied into a skirt to cover your knees in religious sites, or as a swimsuit cover up at the beach during summer travel. Versatile, stylish, portable, light, and breezy, I never regret bringing one of these on my trip.

3. RFD Protected Bag or Wallet

Whenever you travel to a big city in Israel or a particularly crowded, touristy destination (such as inside Jerusalem’s old city walls), it is imperative that you protect yourself from the risk of pickpockets. The best way to avoid being the target of pickpocketing is with a quality cross-body bag (for men, a neck wallet).

I have carried this one for years, and have it in both purple and brown. It is large enough to hold your valuables, such as cell phone, ATM cards, credit cards, cash, and passport, and has separately organized pouches so you can quickly and easily access your journal, map, water bottle, and other necessities.

4. Travel First Aid Kit

When traveling to a faraway destination like Israel, medical supplies are smart. Israel’s terrain contains hills, sand, and rocks, so small scrapes and blisters may rear their ugly heads. The last thing you want hindering your progress or causing unnecessary discomfort is an exposed, untreated scrape or blister.

I always pack this first aid kit because it is compact and covers just about everything that could arise. And very important: I have carried it through international TSA several times without issue.

5. Packing Cubes

If you want to become the savvy traveler you always dreamt of being, start using packing cubes! I have used these packing cubes for years. They will help keep you organized while traveling, which prevents becoming overwhelmed trying to find what you packed. These cubes also come with a separate bag to store your dirty laundry so as not to mix them with your clean clothes.

6. Travel Insurance for Israel

Whenever you travel to a foreign place, regardless of the destination, it’s imperative to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency. Getting travel insurance is simpler than you might think.

I prefer to use Trip Insurance Consultants because of the variety of coverage and price levels it contains. My church also uses them for travelers on our mission trips. By planning ahead and getting travel insurance you can potentially save yourself the hassle and the expenses that come with flight cancellations, lost items, theft, and medical emergencies. It’s one of those things that I simply do not travel internationally without.

7. Long Skirt

As Israel is one of the world’s most significant religious centers, women should be sure to pack a long skirt or dress for visiting holy or religious sites. In Jewish or Muslim neighborhoods throughout the country, particularly in Jerusalem, modesty is key.

As Israel can get quite warm, especially during the summer, you will want to have a breezy, lightweight skirt to keep cool and covered. You can also use the pashmina listed above to cover your shoulders and knees at religious sites, rather than packing an extra skirt. Easy!

8. Camera

There is nothing worse than traveling to a spectacular place, taking photos, and later realizing that they are low-quality. In a destination as fascinating as Israel, you will want to have an excellent camera to properly capture the experience.

The camera that I use and highly recommend is high quality yet, comes with all necessary items, and is small enough to carry everywhere in your front pocket.

9. Prescription Medications

This almost goes without saying, but I’ll list it anyway. If you take regular prescription medication, pack it in its original bottle and be sure to pack a copy of the prescription, as well. Should an unforeseen event delay your return home, you do not want to be caught without a way to refill your necessary medications. I simply use my smallest packing cube (mentioned above) to hold any and all medical items.

Also, do not leave behind your essential over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen. With all of the walking and the hilly terrain, ibuprofen is a lifesaver!

10. Daypack

Israel is a very compact country, about the size of New Jersey. Yet it is absolutely packed with sites, cities, and diverse activities. Your days may include exploring cities, visiting museums and holy sites, hiking in the desert, and swimming in the Dead Sea.

A reliable day pack to carry a good supply of water, electronics, and any outfit changes is a necessity. I have used this reliable backpack for years and it is still going strong.

12. Portable Charger

Another incomparably useful travel item is a portable charger. If you’re relying on your smartphone to navigate or use as a camera and it runs out of battery in an inconvenient place, you may find yourself in a bit of a bind. A small, easy to carry portable charger can be a lifesaver when you really need it. I have this charger with both two and three USB charging portals. They charge many devices at once many times over.

13. Sunglasses

Israel enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate, so you can expect a lot of clear, sunny days year-round. A good pair of UV-protected sunglasses will be essential to shield your eyes from the intense rays of the desert sun. In this pic, I climbing En Gedi where David hid from King Saul’s jealous rage. It was a gorgeous day.

14. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Plan to do a lot of walking when in Israel, especially in cities like Jerusalem, Jaffa, and Tel Aviv. The traffic congestion makes walking the preferred mode to get where you are going faster. You will want comfortable shoes that look appropriate, especially when you enter religious sites like churches or synagogues. I prefer Skechers, but any comfortable shoes with excellent support will work.

Quick story: During one summer trip to Israel, a woman in our group tried to enter the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem with open-toed sandals. Although the sandals were not necessarily the problem that time of year, the blingy cross plastered on top of them was highly offensive to the locals. They equated the crosses on her feet to “walking on Jesus” in disrespect. Blingy is cute, just be courteous as to what that bling contains. Nice sandals are just fine.

15. Rain Jacket or Travel Umbrella

Some will say that you do not need to bother. I have been caught in rainstorms more than once, trust me you need one or both. A waterproof jacket with a hood works just fine for any kind of weather. If it’s a cooler time of the year, the jacket also serves as an extra layer for warmth instead of a heavy coat (which you do not need).

16. Water Bottle

Israel is a dry country – it’s the desert! You need to be sure to remain hydrated. It is a good idea to carry your own water bottle so that you always have a ready supply of fresh water. Yes, bottled water is abundantly available, but we do not need any more plastic in the world’s landfills. I love to take this one because it folds up to fit easily in my airline carry-on bag and saves space.

17. Extra Pair of Glasses or Contacts

If you wear contacts, like me, you will need to pack an extra pair. When those desert winds blow, the air contains sand particles – especially during their dry summers. I always pack a pair of extra contacts, as well as backup eyeglasses. If you strictly wear eyeglasses, it’s a good idea to pack your spare pair just in case uneven terrain causes a stumble.

18. Washcloth

Out of all of the hotels (of various shapes, sizes, and price ranges) that I have stayed in throughout Israel, only ONE supplied washcloths. They are not provided as a hotel staple like here in America, so it’s a good idea to pack one for washing your face or other basic necessities.

19. Swimsuit and Water Shoes

You can swim almost year-round in Israel thanks to its mild climate. You may opt for a water hike through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, a float in the Dead Sea (this pic at the Dead Sea is from my 2019 tour), or other water activities. Hotels can provide towels, so do not take up valuable luggage space by packing a towel. Just be sure to take a few extra plastic bags in your daypack for your wet swimsuit and water shoes.

20. A Copy of Your Passport

This has literally saved my bacon in the past. Always, and I mean always, carry a copy of your passport. I tuck mine safely in my carry-on luggage side pocket. If you lose, or simply cannot find, your passport, this copy will be a lifesaver in getting you back home with much less hassle.

21. Bible and Journal

Last, but by no means least, Christians need to take your Bible and a journal. You are walking where Jesus and His disciples walked! I have used the same travel Bible for years. Each time I have read or taught from a particular passage, I wrote the date and location in the margin. Years later, each time I come across one of those marked placed, I remember the sounds, smell and feel of each location as if I was there again.

Journaling along the way is so important! I have used this one for years because it is a handy size and uses refillable, lined paper. The handmade leather has only gotten more beautiful over time.

Traveling to Israel will deeply impact your spiritual journey more than any other location. Ever. Out of all the places on earth, God chose Israel as the birthplace and ministry of His Son, Jesus Christ. Walking in His footsteps and experiencing Jewish culture will forever change you from the inside out.

I hope you this list has been helpful! I pray that you will join me on my next Holy Land tour in March 2024 (details here).

Trust me when I say that you will never read Scripture the same again.

God will turn your life, heart and soul upside down.

In the best way.

Caesarea Aqueduct, December 2022

Related Posts:

About the Author
Although Donna is a sought-after Bible teacher, her path from being unchurched to become passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Go here to read her God-breathed journey, “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her contact page here.

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Giving Thanks on the Sea of Galilee

Posted on by Donna Snow

The crisp, clear morning air felt invigorating as our group of 35 pilgrims climbed aboard this old Israeli fishing boat on the Sea of Galilee last week.

Across the water on a distant hillside, we could see the city of Tiberias.

Along another shoreline, palm trees waved in the gentle breeze from the village of Magdala where Mary Magdeline lived.

We set sail on smooth waters and marveled at the 360 degree view of the very shores where Jesus performed so many miracles.

Some were overcome with emotion. Some could only grasp for words to convey their amazement. Some could not wipe the smile from their faces at the sheer joy of sailing where Jesus had sailed!

And we gave thanks.

I read portions from Matthew 14 where Jesus walked on water. Where Peter walked on water. Where Jesus rescued Peter even when Peter’s faith faltered in the storm.

As Scripture rang out over the glassy surface, we remembered how He had faithfully rescued each of us from storms, as well.

And we gave thanks.

We read where Jesus calmed frightening storms, swirling waters, and anxious hearts as His peace filled us to overflowing like those ancient boats overflowed with fish.

Teaching and reading Scripture from a boat on the Sea of Galilee, Nov. 2019

Then as worship music played, we praised God on the very water where God in the flesh had sailed.

We sailed past Bethsaida where Jesus fed the 5,000 with two small fish and five barley loaves and gave thanks that He fills for our every need. We glimpsed the temple ruins of Capernaum where Jesus taught near Peter’s home and gave thanks for His living and active Word.

JESUS.
HAD.
BEEN.
HERE.

Jesus sailed with us that very day on the boat.

By the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus is with us every moment of every day. Wherever you find yourself this Thanksgiving, take comfort that you are never alone.

His love never fails, never stops, and is never conditional. His unconditional love for us took Him all the way to the cross.

And for that beautiful truth, we give abundant thanks.

The Dead Sea, An Oasis, and Goats Galore

Posted on by Donna Snow

After six hectic tour days, today was truly a soul refreshing break. Strengthened by another delicious breakfast at the hotel, we loaded up the bus and headed toward our first stop: Ein Gedi.

Ein Gedi is a lush oasis in the middle of the Judean desert. After miles of desert and desert mountains, our eyes feasted on field after field of date palm trees (a successful cash crop here). Who knew these existed in such abundance here!

Ein Gedi literally means “the spring of the kid (young goat)” and we saw some of those goats almost immediately! These Ibex are wild and in abundance in these desert mountains, and it was such a treat to see them roaming wild!

Ein Gedi takes its name from a freshwater spring which flows from the rocks over 650 feet above the Dead Sea. When King Saul heard that David was in the vicinity of Ein Gedi, he gathered several thousand soldiers and hunted for David in these very caves. There’s a LOT of history in these caves.

It was in these very caves where David hid from Saul and wrote many of the Psalms (1 Samuel 23:29). We started out the day hiking up to the springs where David spent much of his wilderness time running from Saul.

The morning grew warm and the climb was not for the faint of heart, but we did it! The hidden springs along the way and shade toward the falls felt refreshing from the inside out. It felt like we climbed Mount Everest, so naturally we took a group victory picture!

From Ein Gedi, we headed through the desert to Qumran. This settlement was home to the Essenes, a devout set of Pharisees who moved out to Ein Gedi because they disapproved of many religious practices in Jerusalem. From here they wrote all of the Old Testament scrolls over and over by hand and sealed them in clay jars to faithfully preserve the Old Testament texts. The only book not found was Esther. The scrolls were discovered by a boy in 1947 and have verified the accuracy and reliability of Scripture. Hallelujah!

Then we headed to the Dead Sea! The saline content in the Dead Sea is 37%, which means no living organism can survive in it. The beautiful, panoramic view of the Dead Sea from the highway roads was truly stunning!

We finished this day refreshed and better acquainted as brothers and sisters in Christ. What a most perfect day!

Walking Through Old Town Jerusalem & Bethlehem

Posted on by Donna Snow

It’s hard to know where to begin when you travel through Jesus’ life in 10 hours. On this crisp 45 degree morning, we began at the Temple Mount in Old Jerusalem, which is built on Mount Moriah (the place believed to be where Abraham offered his son, Isaac, as a sacrifice to God).

Atop this Temple Mount stands the famous Gold Dome of the Rock. The morning sun glinted off of the gold-plated dome made it feel like it would burst into flame at any moment!

As we left the Temple Mount, we walked the Vio Dolorosa, the last steps that Jesus walked through Jerusalem toward Calvary. The route winds itself through the Old City of Jerusalem, starting at a school near the Lion’s Gate and ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (the traditional site of Jesus’ crucifixion).

The old streets bustled with people of many languages, shopkeepers hawking their wares, and street vendors offering a strand of beads for a few shekels. It was a sensory overload as vivid color and noise were everywhere – except inside the churches. There is a Lutheran Church in Old Town Jerusalem and it was fun to see Wayne behind the altar (even if it was only for pictures)!

The Via Dolorosa took us through the 14 stations of the cross where it was powerful to see the traditionally-held places where Jesus was condemned by Pilate, received His cross and then fell under its weight.

It seemed only fitting that such a spiritually meaningful journey ended at the Church of Holy Sepulchre. There has been a church on this site since 326 AD and is believed to be the location where Christ was crucified. Old Byzantine mosaic tiles and beautiful frescos were lit by dozens of suspended lanterns placed there by Christians, Greek Orthodox, Armenian and Roman Catholic churches.

There was so much history and spiritually powerful meaning along this route that I could hardly catch my breath at times.

Finally, our group gathered at the Western Wall for a personal time of prayer and reflection. Some of us wrote out prayers on small pieces of paper and stuffed them into the cracks of the Wall as we prayed (a tradition there). Tears ran down my face as I prayed for the people and situations that God laid on my heart.

We walked out of Old Town of Jerusalem inspired, tired, and awed. Then it was time for Bethlehem! We enjoyed a scrumptious lunch upon arrival, then given a rare opportunity to see how olive wood is gathered and carved by hand and machines.

Naturally, a stop in the shop that produced those items was given! (That’s a post for a different day.) The angels made the announcement HERE! The shepherds heard the message HERE The star shone RIGHT HERE.

The Church of the Nativity sits just next to the Shepherds’ Hill Church, both honoring Jesus’ birth and the proclamation of the shepherds: “While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed him in a manger.” Luke 2:6-7

We are back at our hotel in Jerusalem for the evening, marveling at God’s grace, love and provision for each of us.

Sunrise on the Sea of Galilee

Posted on by Donna Snow

Today was simply incredible! My morning began by watching the sun rise over the Sea of Galilee as its cool breezes and lapping waves provides the soundtrack to my prayers. As I looked out over the calm waters, the realization hit home hard: Jesus walked on THIS water. Jesus performed miracles on and around THIS water. Jesus preached by THIS water. JOY!!

We enjoyed another incredible breakfast at the hotel, then it was “All Aboard!” in a replica wooden “Jesus boat” to set sail across the Sea of Galilee. The captain welcomed us by turning the boat into an American vessel for our journey by playing the Star Spangled Banner. The American and Jerusalem flags waved majestically side-by-side in the morning sun as we sang our national anthem.

I read the account from Matthew 14 of Jesus (and Peter) walking on the very waters on which we sailed. The captain played several familiar worship songs as we sang, visited, sat in silent awe, or let emotions roll down our cheeks. Meanwhile, these words rang fresh in our minds: And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” Matthew 14:32-33

We disembarked to tour through the Jesus boat museum where we saw a beautifully preserved fishing boat that had been discovered and excavated in the 1980s that dated back to Jesus’ day. The archaeologists identified 12 different types of wood used on that boat, indicating its constant fishing use over a long period of time. There is a good chance that Jesus knew or came in contact with the owners of this very boat!

By 10:30 am, we were back on the bus headed to the Mount of Beatitudes. It was a busy, bustling place. Wayne gathered us on the steps facing the front of the church and led a powerful devotion while reading the beatitudes from Matthew 5.

As we drove away from the Mount of Beatitudes toward Capernaum, the panoramic view of the rolling hills and mountains around the Sea of Galilee was simply stunning.

Capernaum is the seaside location where Jesus spent much time with Peter and teaching in the synagogue. Built over the original black stone synagogue of Jesus’ day, the remains of a white stone synagogue stood dramatically. A boat-shaped church has been built over the site of Peter’s home to help preserve it.

We had worked up quite an appetite, so we stopped at a local establishment and ordered the famous “Peter’s Fish.” Yes, they serve it head and all! I’m not accustomed to my food staring back at me, but this was a special exception.

All gone! 😂

Our next stop was Tabgha, a Byzantine church dating from 350 AD, commemorating the place where Jesus multiplied the loaves and fishes to feed the 5,000. We walked on intricate mosaic tiles that were over 1,500 years old!

Our final stop for the day was at the Jordan River where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. We remembered our baptisms in a special ceremony in the Jordan River. God’s gift of baptism was celebrated with joy, tears, and raw, beautiful emotion. How very appropriate that the Jordan River ends at the Dead Sea — the lowest place on Earth. “Our sins are carried to the depths of the sea to be remembered no more.” Micah 7:18-20

We are back at the hotel on the Sea of Galilee for the night, my mind still whirling at what we experienced today. It is sobering and surreal to walk the very same places as Jesus and His disciples walked over 2,000 years ago. Sweet dreams, fellow disciples.

Pastor Snow

Posted on by Donna Snow

After nearly eighteen hours of travel, our group of 35 pilgrims arrived safely in the Holy Land. We were tired but exhilerated! Our Imagine Tours guide met us at the airport holding this greeting sign that provided us all a hearty chuckle to start our adventure.

I’m uncomfortable. 🙂

After climbing aboard our bus, we headed straight toward Jaffa – the modern name for the biblical city Joppa. The Hebrew word Joppa means beauty, which was evident by its breathtaking location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Our first order of business was to try out the local fare for lunch that included falafels and shawarma (meat cut into thin slices, stacked in a cone-like shape, and roasted on a slowly-turning vertical rotisserie).

Our first meal in the Holy Land!

We walked through Joppa seeing the seaport that Solomon used to import cedar logs from Lebanon which were used to build the original Temple of God in Jerusalem. It was from here that Jonah attempted to flee God’s calling to preach to the rebellious people in Nineveh.

Little Luther waving from Jaffa

We wound our way through narrow stone streets and walkways to spend some quiet time in the Church of St. Peter, which is believed to have been built over the site of Simon the Tanner’s home where Peter received the missionary vision from God in Acts 9-10.

St. Peter’s Church in Jaffa, Israel

Wayne gathered us for a time of prayer overlooking the city to pause our busy feet and minds to ask God to bless our time for this great spiritual adventure.

Wayne gathering us for prayer overlooking Jaffa, Israel

We concluded our day with a delicious meal of local fare of grilled fish, a plethora of fresh vegetables, and mini lamb burgers at our hotel in Netanya, Israel. Even though we were in the middle of a bustling city that is home to nearly a quarter million people, the sea breeze and beautiful shorelines of the Mediterranean Sea beckoned within walking distance.

Thank you, God, for getting us here safely an starting off our adventure in such stunning surroundings!