 Daniel Rona was born in Israel and raised in the United States. He and his father joined the LDS (Mormon) church while living in New York and later moved to Salt Lake City. Daniel later served an LDS Mission in Germany. So he is an Israeli, an American, a Mormon and a Jew, and he and his son, Steven, are the only LDS licensed guides in Israel |
This is my personal blog to help all of you get to know me better and to let you know what I am doing and what's important in my life; and to give you some interesting information about my home, Israel. You can contact me with comments through email (daniel@israelrona.com). I hope you enjoy reading this blog and seeing some of the photographs of my home in Israel. (if you click on the image, you will see a larger view) -- Daniel Rona |
ISRAEL REVEALED WEBSITE Information about Israel & travel to the Holy Lands FIRESIDES Daniel's fireside schedules The Ensign Foundation Bringing together Joseph & Judah ISRAEL REVEALED E-BOOK A free version of Daniel's acclaimed book about the Holy Land ARCHIVE INDEX: Passover Meals Green Israel Planting Trees in Israel America Israel League Book of Mormon Lands Safety in Israel My Early Life |
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 Watch Tower |
August 24, 2011 |
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August 18, 2011 CHOSEN BY GOD The heartfelt joy of the Holy Land can be experienced by remembering the events that took place here. The contrasts intensify and expand our vision. On one hand, great events were caused by humble prophets; and on the other, men wanting to be great were caused to be humble. For God's own reasons, He chose this land and its inhabitants to be the place and the people for revelation of truth in the past. In Israel nowadays, there's a saying, "How odd of God to choose the Jews." If you go back before there were "Jews" you'll remember that Abraham, apparently the first Hebrew, lived in the East in the land of the Chaldees. Later he was sent west to the fertile Mediterranean coastal region to establish the true worship of God. In any case, a religion and a culture developed that would be spread to the surrounding lands and peoples, and thus Israel became the spiritual and temporal Crossroads of the East. It is truly remarkable that such a little land had such a great effect on history. |
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August 11, 2011 ANCIENT TEMPLE SYMBOLISM Jewish traditions at the Western Wall include men worshiping separated from women. Men wear special clothing, such as a head covering called a kipa in Hebrew, or yarmulke in Yiddish. Women also cover their hair and some even wear veils. Sometimes male Levites wear an apron, and others wear a sash tied on one side. The ever-present prayer shawl or robe is draped over the shoulders (first it is draped over one shoulder and then over the other). The prayer shawl is usually made of wool and is called a talith (a word derived from the Hebrew word taleh, which is "a lamb"). Clothing in addition to the talith can sometimes be seen worn on one shoulder or the other as well. Older Jews remind us that in times past they removed their shoes because the site was so holy. At the Western Wall, I discovered an even older custom when I realized that hundreds, if not thousands, of nails were pounded into the Wall. Older texts reveal a now-forgotten custom of the "sure nails." This was the practice of bringing one's sins, grief, or the tragedies of life to the remains of the Temple wall and "nailing" them in a sure place. The nails are a reminder of Isaiah's prophecy that man's burden will be removed when the nail in the sure place is taken down. |
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 A Modern Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley |
July 27, 2011 |
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July 20, 2011 CROSSROADS Israel is situated between to great population centers. To the north and east is the Fertile Crescent with millions of people; to the south and west is the Nile Delta with millions of people. These two great population centers traveled back and forth through the land of Israel, and it became the crossroads of the East. A personal note about the Crossroads of the East; some years ago I was invited to audition for the Spoken Word broadcasts of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in Salt Lake City. I suggested that since Jerusalem was my home, I would always be ready to be their resident announcer in Israel. For more than eight decades that program has begun with the words, "From the Crossroads of the West." However, I would probably begin the broadcast with the words, "From the Crossroads of the East." This little word game, a chiasmus actually, contains a clue to the understanding of the Latter-day Saints in America and their relationship with the brothers and sisters in Israel. |
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 Reading the Torah |
July 13, 2011 A CHIASMUS OF LESSER AND HIGHER LAWS The Lesser Law given through Moses and the Higher Law given by Jesus form a chiasmus around the ministry and atonement of Jesus – the lesser law that would lead to Him and the higher law to live like Him. Fifty days after Jesus’ crucifixion at Passover, the Holy Ghost came upon the congregation in Jerusalem. The Jewish holiday commemorating the giving of the lesser law at Mount Sinai is also celebrated fifty days after Passover. Apparently, the same day was also used in giving the Holy Ghost – the higher law. That day is called Pentecost. |
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July 6, 2011 MY WITNESS OF AN EMPTY TOMB For almost four decades, I have had the privilege of bringing people to the Savior’s empty tomb. My first visit was in 1973. It was a sacred and enriching experience. I cannot count the times I have returned; however, one thing is sure: my last visit is always as sweet as the first. Most revisits have enhanced my understanding. That is because the spirit of sacred events constantly confirms the tradition of a living Messiah. The scriptural account continues to ring the truth, while the rocks and plants and creatures of life – the place – give their witness that He lives! |
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 Abraham Planted a Grove of Trees in Beersheva |
June 29, 2011 IDOLS THEN AND NOW Abraham had a difficult relationship with his father, Terah, who was taken in by the idol worshipping prevalent in the area. Various gods were idolized as people made statues and doted on works of wood and metal. (Add glass to wood or plastic and metal and it might look like a TV or computer of today!) God brought Abraham out of the land of the Chaldees to the Crossroads of the East. There Abraham was to have a great family. Some might consider it unfortunate (or even a mistake) that he married a woman, although very beautiful, who could not bear children. But when Sarah was ninety years old the impossible became possible, and God blessed them as Sarah gave birth to a son. |
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June 24, 2011 THE COLOR OF RED It seems that the Savior's clothing surely must have been stained red. His “red” (bleeding) may have been symbolized by the ancient biblical practice of sacrificing a red-haired, unblemished firstborn calf on this mount. The ashes of that red-haired calf were used in immersions of those needing a remission of sins. "This is the ordinance of the law which the Lord hath commanded,... bring thee a red heifer without spot, wherein is no blemish,... And one shall burn the heifer in his sight;... And a man that is clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer, and lay them up without the camp in a clean place, and it shall be kept for the congregation of the children of Israel for a water of separation: it is a purification for sin." NUMBERS 19:2-9 In Jewish tradition the place where the red calf was sacrificed was as high as one could get on the Mount of Olives. It was also in line with the Gate Beautiful and in a line that was northward of the Temple altar. It is thus likely that Jesus’ Gethsemane experience may have happened at the same location, further up the mount, rather than in the traditional church places at the bottom of the mountain. |
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 Jerusalem |
June 16, 2011 THE ETERNAL CITY There is no other city quite like Jerusalem. It has been the Eternal City of the Jewish people since the days of Kind David. Once you have visited Jerusalem, you cannot forget her. To me, Jerusalem is the jewel in God's crown, and the crown of Jerusalem was, is, and will be her temple. The temple is God's house on the earth and it contains the sacred secrets of what was, what is, and what will be. Jerusalem is a city of worshiping, a habitat of holy places, doorways, and gates that enter the traditions and memories that have extended throughout the ages. So powerful is its importance that one of the psalms says, "If I forget thee, o Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning." (Psalm 137:5) |
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June 2, 2011 THE WESTERN OR WAILING WALL The western wall of the temple mount in Jerusalem has been called the Wailing Wall possibly because many have mistaken Jewish prayers as crying or wailing. But Jews actually gather at the wall to worship because they believe they have no priestly permission or authority to go on the Temple Mount itself. The worship area of the Wailing Wall is only a remnant of the entire Western Wall. The wall serves as the closest gathering spot available. It serves to somewhat satisfy their yearning to connect with their past. Weddings and Bar Mitzvah celebrations take place regularly here. All of this activity is done in remembrance of similar situations that took place in the Temple, above the wall, before its destruction. This worship area was desecrated throughout the centuries, and especially between the years of 1948 and 1967 when Jews were forbidden to enter the Old City or to worship at the wall. Hovels and huts crowded the area up to the wall, and a part of the wall area was used for public toilets. Prior to 1948 when Jerusalem was divided, the wall was available for Jewish worship in some respect or another. The following nineteen years were the only time that access to the wall was completely forbidden (or unavailable). The Israeli armed forces opened the city of Jerusalem again during the Six-Day War. Then the access to the wall was cleared, and it was cleaned. In 1967 Jerusalem again became an open city for worshipers of all faiths. Jews have kept a constant vigil at the wall ever since. At any hour of the day or night one is likely to find someone there, praying or reciting scriptures. |
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 The Gate Beautiful |
June 2, 2011 THE GATE OF MERCY AND FORGIVENESS The Temple's eastern wall in Jerusalem had one entrance reserved for the Messiah's entry. This Gate Beautiful was also known as the Gate of Mercy and as the Gate of Forgiveness. In ancient days, through this gate, once a year on Yom Kippur--the Day of Atonement an unblemished, firstborn lamb or goat would be allowed to escape. It was first "blessed" with the sins of the congregation. The priest would have had to interview the congregation, probably individually. Their confessions of mistakes or experiences of grief and tragedy would then be repeated vocally by the priest as he laid them on the head of the firstborn, unblemished offering. The effect of hearing the sins repeated and visually seeing them laid on a lamb or goat may have spiritually moved the participants. They were to see, hear, and feel their sins being taken away. So, bearing the sins of the multitude, this scapegoat truly became a symbol of a redeemer to come to take away the sins of the people. |
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 Entrance to Hezekiah's tunnel, where some jews perform immersions |
May 25, 2011 IMMERSION IN ANCIENT ISRAEL In the time of Jesus, as well as today, it was common for Jews to be immersed, often insisting that the water be "living water," that is, out of bedrock. It should also be flowing and always below ground level. Jesus' immersion was in the Jordan River which originates from bedrock springs--living water. The location described in the New Testament seems to be at the lowest spot on the face of the earth, below ground level of the rest of the world. The water flows into the Dead Sea. It seems symbolic, at least to me. It is not surprising to suppose that Jesus was keeping a strict code of Mosaic tradition, immersion being part of that. Orthodox Jews still practice immersions quite regularly. It is from Jesus' example that Christians have adopted a baptismal practice; of course, some feel that baptism by immersion is still necessary, others perform baptism by a symbolic sprinkling. |
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May 11, 2011 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE RESURRECTION For Jews today, the cloth put over the head of the deceased is the talith, the garment or prayer shawl. There is a suggestion that the napkin that was about the head of Jesus could have been the Talith. The physical description of “wrapped together” seems to suggest the physical action of folding his clothes before he left the tomb. Later, Mary stood outside the sepulcher weeping; she also stooped down and looked into the sepulcher. The fact that several people are mentioned to be stooping means it must have been a small entrance. As the weeping Mary looked in, she saw two angels; they spoke to her and she spoke to them. She then saw the Master. That evening Jesus appeared to ten Apostles (Thomas was not with them). They had locked themselves in because of their fear of the Jewish priests. They were startled. But Jesus reassuringly comforted them, “Peace be unto you.” Jesus appeared later to the eleven Apostles in Jerusalem and to others on the way to Emmaus. He appeared to, spoke to, and ate with several of them in Galilee. The New Testament has a record of over five hundred people seeing Jesus. |
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 Street Scene, Jerusalem |
May 4, 2011 HOLY DAYS IN JERUSALEM Jerusalem two thousand years ago was much larger than what is contained within the walled Old City of today. It contained almost two-thirds more area and more than double the population of today. In those days there were about eighty thousand inhabitants. However, another hundred to a hundred and fifty thousand or more visitors came during the major holy days. They included Passover in the spring, Succoth in the fall, Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, and so on. Today around thirty thousand people live within the walled Old City, but more than six hundred thousand others live outside of it. |
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April 27, 2011 HE LIVES Mary stood outside the sepulcher weeping. As the weeping Mary looked in, she saw two angels; they spoke to her; she spoke to them “...she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus ...She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.” JOHN 20:14-15 Jesus called her by name, and “...She turned herself, and saith unto him...Master.” JOHN 20:16 He was alive again! She saw him, and Jesus spoke to her, “...go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.” JOHN 20:17-18 He Lives! That evening Jesus appeared to ten Apostles (Thomas was not with them). They had locked themselves in because of their fear of the Jewish priests. They were startled. Jesus reassuringly comforted them. “...and saith unto them, [Shalom, Shalom, aleichem].” JOHN 20:19 He obviously spoke in their language; however, in English his expressions are just as comforting, “...Peace be unto you. |
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 WESTERN WALL AT PASSOVER |
April 21, 2011 THE JEWISH PASSOVER "The seven-day deliverance feast of Passover is called the "Seder." It is one of the most important and festive holidays in Judaism. Celebrated on the first full moon after the first day of spring, the first day is a "high day" and is treated as a Sabbath. The day before Passover is sometimes referred to as the first day of the feast of unleavened bread. It is the preparation day when all leavened products (hametz) are removed from the home. Certain foods are prepared to be eaten in a ritual and festive manner. They are placed on a Seder plate along with unleavened bread called mazzah." The present Jewish Passover feast is, in fact, an annual event to remember Israel's deliverance. The prayers said include a promise that in the future another deliverance would occur greater than the first Passover. |
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April
11, 2011 THE JEWISH SUKKOTH Sukkoth is an eight day holiday that commemorates the way the ancient Jews lived while they were wandering in the desert. It also is a time of celebration for the harvest season, when the Jews would build small huts (sukkah) at their fields so they could spend more time working. In ancient times the Jews would live in a sukkah and eat every meal in it. In modern times they usually build a sukkah in their backyards or help build one for the community. It is popular to eat at least one meal in the sukkah. In Jerusalem, some neighborhoods will organize contests to see who can build the best sukkah. Since Sukkoth is a celebration of the harvest, another custom on Sukkoth is the waving of the lulav (a palm frond and several other twigs) and etrog (a kind of citron). These branches are waved in four directions representing God's dominion over Creation. |
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March 23, 2011 LIFE IN ISRAEL, TODAY I have often been asked what it is like to live in Israel. Life is going on in Israel. We continue to pray for peace, both the Lord’s peace and peace among peoples. Members of the Church have fasted and prayed together for others, because we are not afraid. There is also another thought that should be considered. When the ugly tentacles of Satan reach out to disrupt life, it usually means that evil is competing with goodness. There are so many more believers, here in the Holy Land, than ever before. The times are getting closer to the advent of the Messiah. No wonder evil lurks to dissuade us from recognizing and embracing the good news. So we put ourselves in the hands of the Lord. Living here, we listen to and are aware of the voices around us. We see the reality of the big picture rather than that of the limited news reports which encourage an imbalance. We follow the spirit that still prevails in this Holy Land. We manage to be in the world while not being of the world. In our exciting world of Israel we need your faith, your prayers and when you are ready, your presence. It strengthens the cause of good. It brings confidence and hope to both Arabs and Jews, and to all of us. |
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 Unleavened Bread |
March 3, 2011 THE SYMBOLISM OF BREAD The messianic symbolism of bread at Passover can be visualized in the three pieces of unleavened bread that could represent God, his Son, and the Holy Ghost. The three pieces are usually layered top, center, and bottom. In due course of the meal, the first part of the center piece is blessed (initially) and then broken. The hidden part of the center piece is found later (often wrapped in a red cloth) at the end of the meal by the children (a later generation), and then they receive a reward. That piece is then broken and then blessed, followed by wine. A chiasmus can be recognized as first it is "wine and bread" then, after the "hidden" piece is found, it is "bread and wine." The Atonement is the center focus. A tradition to place the hidden piece above something may also connote the second coming of the Messiah. The first time he came in lowly circumstances, a manger; and the second time he comes dressed in red and in great glory from above. It is the later generation that finds him and "great shall be their reward." |
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February 23, 2011 THE SO-CALLED GOOD SAMARITAN When talking about the Parable of the Good Samaritan, Israeli Jews don't use the term "Good" Samaritan; to some, it has anti-Semitic implications to bad Jews. Of course, Jesus had no intention of portraying Jews as uncompassionate--in his story, he's making a legal point to the lawyer's question, legally, who is my neighbor? The Hebrew inference was that the priest and the Levite were within their legal rights--not to be defiled by being too close to the dead--and rather than take a chance, they went on the other side. Their lack of action was strictly legal, but it missed the higher law of compassion, governed by the spirit not the letter of the law. Talmudic commentary written some hundreds of years later indicates an additional guideline. Now Levites, or Cohens, are required to bury the dead if they chance upon a cadaver and are not accompanied by someone else. |
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 Arab cemetery |
February 16, 2011 TRADITIONS AND GRAVES In a Jewish cemetery small stones and rocks are placed on the gravestones or monumental markers on or above the Jewish graves. This is a tradition indicating a yearning to have the Jerusalem Temple rebuilt. Jews are buried with a garment indicative of previous temple worship. The temple functions contained sacred teachings of what was, what is, and what will be. Approaching or leaving Jerusalem there are signs warning Jews who are Levites or consider themselves Cohens (as priests are called in Hebrew) not to travel further on this modern road, because it leads through a graveyard. Ancient biblical tradition instructs a Levite or a Jewish priest not to touch anything dead--except for the unblemished firstborn sacrifice at the Temple. So even though they know the priesthood has been lost, modern Levites take another road on the other side. |
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February 9, 2011 BOTH A JEW AND A MORMON Many have wondered how it is that I could be both a Jew and a Mormon. To better understand, I must point out that with both these groups it is more than just religion we are talking about, it becomes a culture and a lifestyle. Being born a Jew is in fact, much like being born American, Italian, or some other ethnic origin. When one becomes a Latter-day Saint in any region of the world, they are not asked to forget their cultural roots. In fact, it is quite the opposite. For example, the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii has been established to share the various cultures of these peoples of the House of Israel with other Latter-day Saints as well as the rest of the world. I want to share my heritage with you. I especially want my new Family of Joseph to better understand their own roots and ties with my Family of Judah. Joseph Smith, Jr. was of the lineage Joseph and Judah. I am of the Tribe of Judah (a Jew ), who has recognized the Messiah. My heritage is something I cherish. I can count myself with Jews (like Peter, James, John, Paul and others) who accepted Jehoshua from Nazareth. as their Savior. |
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 Mt. of Beatitudes |
February 2, 2011 THE SPIRIT OF THE MOUNT On the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, on a higher elevation overlooking the sea, a higher law was given on the Mount of Beatitudes. Even ancient travelers have written in their journals of the peaceful feeling of this Mount. They have used the expression, "What a place of sweet spirit." A church designed by the Italian architect Antoine Barlucci marks the traditional location. onsidering the proximity of this place to other communities nearby where Jesus taught and lived (Capernaum, Chorazin, and Bethsaida), the breathtaking view that inspires, and the feelings travelers have reported throughout the centuries, this is a likely spot where Jesus shared an explanation of his mission with the Twelve Apostles. |
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January 20, 2011 LEADING THE SHEEP In the Galilee, I often see a boy shepherd leading his sheep out in the morning to return in the late afternoon. Leading sheep is quite common in this country. Typically there are about a dozen lead sheep, older ones from last year's flock. The shepherd usually has them marked with bells around their necks. It is common to hear the boy talk to his sheep. He calls them when it's time to move on, and that's when the lead sheep immediately respond, ringing their bells as they run towards their shepherd. The ringing noise alerts the other sheep, and then like a wave they begin to follow the others. Here, in Israel, the scenes from the Bible are still common even today. |
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Barmitzvah |
January
14, 2011 A YOUNG NATION WITH OLD ROOTS Israel is a land of visible contrasts; it's a young nation built on an ancient inheritance. It is seven years younger than I am. I was born in Israel in 1941, and Israel only became a nation in 1948. You see, on one hand Israel is less than a century old, and on the other hand its history stretches back almost fifty centuries. Throughout this history the land of Israel has been the focus of attention by its surrounding neighbors who inhabit vast areas of the Middle East. The land of Israel is really quite small. The biblical borders of the "Jordan River to the Mediterranean" and "Dan to Beersheba" are about sixty-five miles wide and about two hundred miles long. In this small area there are virtually no natural resources (no gold, silver, or metal deposits). Even Golda Meir, former Prime Minister of Israel, and pleased to consider herself a secular Jewess, humorously chided Moses. She said, "He traveled the wilderness for forty years and then settled the one spot that had no oil!" |
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January
7, 2011 JERUSALEM: A HISTORY OF DESTRUCTION & RESTORATION The history and gathering of Israel has seen much of destruction and restoration. The “upper part” of Jerusalem is now excavated, revealing the fire devestation when Titus destroyed the city in a.d. 70. Comparing written accounts and the archaeological discoveries of modern times reveals the opulence of this part of the city. But from 1948 to 1967 the Jewish quarter was empty of Jewish residents. In the war of independence this quarter was besieged and every synagogue was destroyed. The Jews eventually surrendered, and the quarter became a slum. In 1966 king Hussein of Jordan ordered Arab squatters out of the rundown area. Still, in 1967 the entire courtyard leading to the western or Wailing Wall was filled with hovels and the ruins of the old Jerusalem Jewish quarter. The courtyard was cleared as the Jewish quarter came back into Jewish hands, and the old city was again reunited with the rest of Jerusalem. Excavations were carried out and new residences were tastefully built in and around the ruins dating back twenty-seven hundred years. |
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December 28, 2010 |
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December 6, 2010 CHRISTMAS IN THE SPRING A simple story that comes from almost nowhere, out of obscurity, is the erstwhile introduction of the Davidic descendant, the King of Kings who was born During Passover in the spring of that year (there was no month with the name of April when Jesus was born). So, according to the biblical calendar, Passover always occurs at the first full moon after the first day of spring. By the way, April 6, 1830 is the date The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized, and it was also the first full moon after the first day of spring. It was Passover, “...being one thousand eight hundred and thirty years since the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the flesh.... “ (DOCTRINE & COVENANTS 20:1). The Deliverer was born at the season celebrating the deliverance of Israel from Egypt and celebrating an expectation of even a greater deliverance. These two deliverances are linked by a journey of time through two millennia. |
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November 10, 2010 KINGS IN ISRAEL Many years ago, I was in Israel with some tourists on the day when the headline news rang out, The King is coming! Children were sent first over the new bridge across the Jordan River to greet King Hussein -- who was the king of Jordan until he passed away in 1999. Symbolically, between the first king in this land (Saul) and the last king (Hussein) was the King of Kings, Jesus of Nazareth. This Holy King was born in Bethlehem, moved to Egypt, returned to Galilee, visited beyond the Jordan River, and fulfilled his mission in Jerusalem, the Holy City. His purpose was to bring peace. His influence reaches out from these places to all the world. |
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October 6, 2010 |
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 Jerusalem Orthodox Jew |
September 21, 2010 MY HERITAGE I want to share my heritage with you. I especially want my new, Family of Joseph, friends to better understand their own roots and ties with my Family of Judah. In fact, Joseph Smith was of the lineage of both Joseph and Judah. I am of the Tribe of Judah (a Jew ), who has recognized the Messiah. My heritage is something I cherish. I can count myself with Jews (like Peter, James, John, Paul and others) who accepted Jehoshua from Nazareth as their Savior. The fact that Jesus himself was a Jew, and that he taught and acted after the manner of the Jews of his day, is worthy of consideration. He was (and is) the Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Lawgiver and the promised Deliverer. As millions of Jews have done, I felt impressed in 1974 to return to my homeland with my family. I have also been impressed to share my understanding of the Messiah with Latter-day Saints and others who desire to know about the Galilean. My deepest love is for the Lord and his Gospel. And from what I know about both, it causes me to have a love for all mankind. True and lasting peace comes from God. I sincerely hope to share the peace I have come to know and feel in the Holy Land with all who want to experience it. |
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September
10, 2010 BEFORE THERE WERE JEWS Let's go back before there were "Jews." Abraham, who was apparently the first Hebrew, lived in the East in the land of the Chaldees. He was sent west to the fertile Mediterranean coastal region to establish the true worship of God. A religion and culture developed that would spread to the surrounding lands and peoples, and eventually to almost all civilizations. Thus Israel became the spiritual and temporal Crossroads of the world. It is truly remarkable that such a little land had such a great effect on history. |
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 Jerusalem |
September
1, 2010 JERUSALEM, MY HOME I know and love Jerusalem. All of my children were raised here, and I call Jerusalem my home. Jerusalem is unique in history and in the modern world. No other city has been mentioned as much in the Bible as Jerusalem. Somehow other modern cities' traditions pale against the over four-thousand-year history of this holy city. Jerusalem was once a Jebusite city before David conquered it. It probably gets its modern name from the title of Salem. Salem is the word "peace," Salaam in Arabic, Shalom in Hebrew. It is also known by other names, such as Zion, Ariel, Al Quds, City of the Lord, or simply, the Holy City. Just the mention of Jerusalem invokes the thought of looking up to the "mountain of the Lord's house." From any direction Jerusalem can only be reached by coming "up" to Mount Moriah, where the ancient Jerusalem Temple stood. I will always look up to Jerusalem. |
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August 26, 2010 REFLECTIONS OF THE HEART You can feel the reflection of the spirit of places and events. It is the spirit that touches your heart. Such consideration is enriching, uplifting, and emotional. People yearn for this influence when they ponder religion. People have spiritual feelings based on their own religious expectations. However, Israel generates feelings of peace--a sense of hallowedness and awe that time has not erased. I know that you will feel a widening sense of understanding by reading the scriptures right where they occurred. There's nothing like it in the whole world. The heartfelt joy of the Holy Land can be experienced by remembering the events that took place here. The contrasts intensify and expand our vision. On one hand, great events were caused by humble prophets; and on the other, men wanting to be great were caused to be humble. |
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August 10, 2010 NAMES IN ISRAEL In reading Jonah's account, it becomes obvious that he learned a great lesson. His four chapters are an interesting study in contrasts and opposites. His own poetry and literary style is a testimony that has one purpose: It is to witness that the Lord saves. He says that clearly in chapter 2, verse 9, "Salvation is of the Lord." Since the word Jehovah is unspeakable in Hebrew (it means I AM -- and "I am" isn't even conjugated in Hebrew), a shortened version of Jehovah is found in "Jeho," "Jah" or "Jahweh." Names such as "Elijah" (my God is Jehovah), "Jeremiah" and "Hezekiah" all refer to "Yah." The word salvation is rendered with the shortened sound "sha" or "shua," such as in "Elisha" (my God saves). However, best of all is the Lord's name "Jeho-shua." This became "Joshua" and eventually that became "Jesus" in English. It means, "Jehovah saves," or as Jonah put it, "Salvation is of the Lord." |
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July 31, 2010 THE CONQUESTS OF ISRAEL From a perspective of treasure or riches there is no apparent reason for the almost thirty different conquests Israel has experienced. The reasons for the foreign conquests were not economic in the sense of resources to plunder; they were geographic. Israel is situated between two great population centers. To the north and east was the Fertile Crescent with its millions of people; to the south and west was the fertile Nile Delta with its millions of people. The foreign masters included (chronologically): Canaanites, Egyptians, Hyksos, Midianites, Hittites, Philistines, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Syrians, Romans, Byzantines, Moslems, Mamelukes, Crusaders, Turks, and British. Yet none of them remained. Throughout its colorful history the land of Israel was overrun, conquered, or inhabited by at least nineteen different peoples, close to thirty different times. Also, these major Middle-East population centers wanted to correspond and trade with each other, so they traveled through the land of Israel, and it became the Crossroads of the East. |
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July 26, 2010 THE CONTRASTS OF ISRAEL Israel is a land of visible contrasts; it's a young nation built on an ancient inheritance. It is seven years younger than I am. I was born in Israel in 1941, and Israel only became a State in 1948. You see, on one hand Israel is less than a century old, and on the other hand its history stretches back almost fifty centuries. Throughout this history the land of Israel has been the focus of attention by its surrounding neighbors who inhabit vast areas of the Middle East. The land of Israel is really quite small. The biblical borders of the "Jordan River to the Mediterranean" and "Dan to Beersheba" are about sixty-five miles wide and about two hundred miles long. In this small area there are virtually no natural resources (no gold, silver, or metal deposits). Even Golda Meir, former Prime Minister of Israel, humorously chided Moses. She said, "He traveled the wilderness for forty years and then settled the one spot that had no oil!" |
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July 16 2010 PATRIOTISM IN THE HOLY LAND There are several patriotic celebrations in the month of July. Americans have their commemoration of Independence day on the 4th, The French have their Bastille Day on the 14th, and the Mormons celebrate Pioneer Day on the 24th. The Israelis have something similar in Masada. The spirit of Masada is felt strongly as Israeli children and soldiers visit Masada at least once in their military or educational pursuits. Some young Jewish lads come here for their Bar Mitzvahs. In the past, elite Israeli military forces took their oaths at this ancient fortress with the cry, "Masada shall never fall again!" Mormons and Masada: Latter-day Saints feel that the Bible prophecy found at Masada referring to the two sticks (families) connects their scriptures (Bible and the Book of Mormon) to the families of the tribes of Judah and Joseph. There is no other historical connection of Mormons and Masada. What is interesting is that the Ezekiel chapter of "coming alive again" is found among the ruins of those who collectively held to the concept of dying rather than living a life in slavery. |
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July 7, 2010 MY "ISRAEL REVEALED" BOOK IN E-BOOK FORM Some years ago I published a book about the Holy Land that has become a standard for Jewish/Mormon information and insight. In the beginning, I also offered a free version of the book on-line in e-book format. That version has been up-dated and is again available free on my website. CLICK HERE |
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July 1, 2010 ANOTHER JEW The fact that Jesus himself was a Jew, and that he taught and acted after the manner of the Jews of his day, is worthy of devout consideration. He was (and is) the Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Lawgiver and the promised Deliverer. As millions of Jews have done, I felt impressed in 1974 to return to my homeland with my family. I have also been impressed to share my understanding of the Messiah with Latter-day Saints and others who desire to know about the Galilean. It is for this reason that I became a licensed tour guide in Israel. If people can't journey to the land itself, then I want to bring a part of Israel to them through speaking engagements, videos, audio cassettes and books about Israel. My deepest love is for the Lord and his Gospel. And from what I know about both causes me to have a love for all mankind. True and lasting peace comes from God. I sincerely hope to share the peace I have come to know and feel in the Holy Land with all who want to experience it. |
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June 24, 2010 AN ANCIENT LAND OF CHANGE Nineteen hundred years after Peter the apostle saw Jaffa a new city sprang up on sand dunes nearby. Tel Aviv became Israel's largest population center, an international city of people from all over the world. The sand dunes, which incidentally have blown and washed up from Egypt, were subdued. This coastal range, the ancient plains of Sharon, was transformed from windswept, dusty dunes and pockets of rotting swamps to fertile green fields once again. However, Tel Aviv, once considered Israel's largest city, now has a few thousand less in population than Jerusalem. By the mid 1990s its internationalism included Israel's first McDonald's. That was, however, preceded by Israel's own McDavid's! A Hard Rock Cafe and various pizza chains have invaded Israel's "Miami Beach." The coastal marinas, hotels, and Jewish population make it close kin to the Florida coastal resorts. My, how things change and still stay the same.. |
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June 18, 2010 A JEW AND A MORMON Many have wondered (some aloud to me) how it is that I could be both a Jew and a Mormon. To better understand, I must point out that with both these groups it is more than just religion we are talking about, it becomes a culture and a lifestyle. Being born a Jew is a fact, much like being born American, Italian, or some other ethnic origin. When one becomes a Latter-day Saint in any region of the world, they are not asked to forget their cultural roots. In fact, it is quite the opposite. For example, the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii has been established to share the various cultures of these peoples of the House of Israel with other Latter-day Saints as well as the rest of the world. I want to share my heritage with you. I especially want my new Family of Joseph to better understand their own roots and ties with my Family of Judah. Joseph Smith, Jr. was of the lineage Joseph and Judah. I am of the Tribe of Judah (a Jew ), who has recognized the Messiah. My heritage is something I cherish. I can count myself with Jews (like Peter, James, John, Paul and others) who accepted Jehoshua from Nazareth as their Savior. |
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June 11, 2010 HEBREWS AND ISRAELITES Abraham was the first known Hebrew, and it would stand to reason that his descendants would be known as Hebrews. In that sense, even the Arabs, descendants of Ishmael, a son of Abraham, could be considered Hebrews. One grandson of this first Hebrew was Jacob, who later in life received a new name, Israel that everyone was supposed to know. By the way, Jews still have the practice nowadays to have an "extra" or "new" name. This is the name they use for religious events such as circumcision, immersions, Bar Mitzvahs, weddings, etc. Moslems get a new name at Mecca that they must keep secret. This name is used when they approach Allah, after death. Incidentally, Moslems return to Mecca in behalf of relatives who have died and did not have the chance to go to Mecca themselves. Living proxies may get the new name for their relatives. A Nation's New Name: As Jacob's name changed to Israel, he was regarded as the first Israelite; and it would stand to reason that his descendants would be known as Israelites. As many of you know, I am an Israelite, an American, a Mormon and a Jew, and so I am happy to have several connections to Abraham and Jacob (Israel). |
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June 1, 2010 THE CROSSROADS OF THE EAST Some years ago I was invited (among others) to audition for the Spoken Word broadcasts of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. I suggested that since Jerusalem was my home, I would always be ready to be their resident announcer in Israel. However, I would probably begin the broadcasts with the words, "From the Crossroads of the East." However, the broadcast continues as it always has, "From the Crossroads of the West." This little word game, a chiasmus actually, contains a clue to understanding the position of Latter-day Saints in America and their relationship with their brothers and sisters in Israel. |
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May 17, 2010 THE HALF-WAY POINT We are almost to the half-way part of the Gospel Doctrine lessons. It does seem that we just started them, but here we are almost to the point of "no return." Time has a way of rushing past us before we are ready for it. Two thousand years ago, some of the Savior's followers were contemplating their daily activities, just like we are doing right now. Some of them chose to keep following the message of Christ, and some got too busy with everyday life and let the message slip past them. It might be well to ask ourselves, what are we doing? |
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May 3, 2010 THE AGE OF ISRAEL AND ME Israel is a young nation built on an ancient inheritance. It is seven years younger than I am. I was born in Israel in 1941, and Israel only became a State in 1948. You see, on the one hand Israel is less than a century old, and on the other hand its history stretches back almost fifty centuries. Throughout this history the land of Israel has been the focus of attention by its surrounding neighbors who inhabit vast areas of the Middle East. Israel is a land of travelers. Even today, over two million visitors a year come from all over the world to see, hear, and touch history and religion as it might have been in the past. I invite you to come and journey with me through the land that has touched the hearts of hundreds of millions of travelers. Meet the people, experience their customs, traditions, and religion in the Holy Land. |
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March 18, 2010 TIME AND AGAIN Israel time is nine hours ahead of Salt Lake City time. So if you called me at 5:00 pm on a Saturday it would be 1:00 am Sunday morning in Jerusalem. Talk about jet lag! Sometimes my body doesn't know if I should be sleeping or getting up. And the mornings do come earlier here. If you want to see the sun rise on the Galilee, you better be up by 4:00 am. It is early, but seeing the Galilee with the orange glow of sunrise is an inspirational experience you don't want to miss. There is something unexplainable about time and place in Israel. You can't help but feel it as soon as you step off the plane. The air and sun are different here, you sense it everywhere you go. The Holy Land has an ambience unlike any other place in the world. It is my privilege to be part of this landscape and help Latter-day Saints experience the remarkable feelings of the holy land of Israel. |
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March 3, 2010 GALILEE FISHERMEN Driving along the shore of the Sea of Galilee I see today's fishermen throwing nets into the sea. They remind me of the earlier Galilean fisherman, who threw their nets aside, even though they were filled beyond belief. "And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19) Simple men becoming his disciples, learned at his feet. They observed authoritative kindness as He healed a man possessed of many evil spirits, helping him become himself again. While reading that account at Kursi, just below some cliffs where swine might have cast themselves down, still brings me a spirit of awe. The miracles of Capernaum still keep reminding me of his powerful saving grace. I still see Talitha, "curly locks", rise from the dead so that her family can be together again. I can hear him teach that "Families Can be Together Forever." Of Jesus' three year ministry, eighteen events are described in the first year, twenty-seven are described in the second year, and one-hundred-fifty are described in the third year, seventy-five of which happened within the last hundred and twenty hours of his life. These hours in Jerusalem are the most important in eternity. Recalling these events becomes more vivid to me as I see newly unearthed ruins of Jesus time. This helps me reflect on his eternal gift of life. I so appreciate walking in his footsteps again and again and, as more time goes on, discovering more of them! |
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November 11, 2009 CHRISTMAS TIME IN ISRAEL When I'm in the Holy Land around Christmas time, I begin to think about the people who lived here that first Christmas and what their thoughts might have been. I can almost feel the presence of the shepherds and innkeepers when I am near the places where those wonderful events took place. I can almost imagine what my thoughts would have been. What would you have felt and thought? It's easy to speculate about what it would have been like, but would any of us have known enough to open our doors to the Holy Family? I hope so. It is wondrous to contemplate what we would have felt, especially when we stand in those holy places. It is a feeling that will surprise you and lift you. It always does that for me. |
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October 1, 2009 STATISTICS ABOUT ISRAEL Here are some interesting statistics that show how Israel fares with the rest of the world. Israel leads the world in the number of scientists and technicians in the workforce, with 145 per 10,000, as opposed to 85 in the U.S., over 70 in Japan, and less than 60 in Germany. With over 25% of its work force employed in technical professions, Israel places first in this category as well. Israel has the highest ratio of university degrees to the population in the world. Israel has the highest per capita ratio of scientific publications in the world by a large margin, as well as one of the highest per capita rates of patents filed. In proportion to its population, Israel has the largest number of startup companies in the world. In absolute terms, Israel has the largest number of startup companies than any other country in the world, except the. Israel has the highest percentage in the world of home computers per capita. Israel's economy is larger than all of its immediate neighbors combined. And of special note, the cell phone was developed in Israel by Motorola-Israel. Motorola built its largest development center worldwide in Israel. For a little country, Israel does very well. |
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September 15, 2009 WALKING ON WATER At the Sea of Galilee many people often think that with enough faith even they could walk on water. One of my Israeli colleagues teaches people to walk on hot coals. One day he asked if I would like to walk on hot coals. I asked him what purpose would it serve for me to be able to do that. He responded, "Once I've taught you to walk on hot coals, you can do anything you want to in life." But I thought, "I don't want to do what I WANT, I want to do what the LORD WANTS." The idea of walking on hot coals seems to be framed in a resemblance of true faith -- an echo of the truth -- and might draw one away from the true doctrine of doing what the Lord wants us to do and having the true faith to follow Him. An ancient example of this can be seen when the tribe of Dan moved from the foothills of Judea to the luscious and fertile North where the living headwaters of the Jordan River bubble out of the ground. Soon, they began to worship idols instead of God (Judges 18:30-32). Visiting this beautiful area today, you can readily see how it might be easier to worship nature instead of God. The Gods of Baal were replacements, imitations and resemblances for the true God of Israel. Another false echo of the truth. |
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September
1, 2009 JEWISH WORD OF WISDOM I've often been asked about the "Word of Wisdom" and how it applies to people other than Mormons. Actually, the Lord gave the Children of Israel a law of health. It also could be called a "Word of Wisdom." The Jews call it the Kashrut, or being kosher -- the correct, proper or fit way of living, Even today, there are some Jews who will not eat meat because there are no sacrifices, and the meat cannot be prepared in the correct way. Others will only eat meat that is kosher. Down through history Jews have often died as martyrs rather than break the dietary laws of the Kashrut. In our own day, the Jews in the concentration camps of Nazi Germany stubbornly stayed true to the laws of the Kashrut, in spite of cruel Nazi punishment for doing so. The biblical account of Daniel shows his humble dedication to the Lord's principles of proper living. His unswerving obedience to the "Word of Wisdom" or "Kashrut" is an example for many people today who are committed to keeping their health code. |
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August 5, 2009 BOOKSELLERS ARCHAEOLOGY DIG "DISCOVERING TREASURES" was the theme of this years LDS Booksellers Association Convention. And Holy Lands Revealed happily complied with a replica of an archaeological dig hiding "genuine" artifacts to be discovered by guests to the our Holy Lands Revealed booth. However, unlike an authentic archaeology dig in Israel, the guests got to keep what they found. It was great fun as old and young alike dug through the dirt frantically in search of treasures. The Holy Lands Revealed staff made sure everyone found something. In between "digs", I shared my witness that most of our treasures in this life come from a secure identity and knowing who we are. Of course, I firmly believe a visit to the Holy Land gives us an insight to who we are and where we came from. |
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July 29, 2009 MORMON HERITAGE IN ISRAEL I believe that Mormon heritage in Israel begins with Jewish roots and I've dedicated my life to showing this bridge connecting the ancient Holy Land with the New Promised Land. My connection with Mormon heritage tours in Israel is authentic because I am an Israeli, an American, a Mormon and a Jew. I was born in Israel, my residence is in Israel, I participated in the development and history of the Jerusalem Center, and I have been a church leader in Israel, and for more than 30-years, I have been the only licensed LDS guide in Israel. All this gives me a real Mormon heritage perspective in the Holy Land. |
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July 15, 2009 COME FOLLOW ME "And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19) Simple men becoming his disciples, learned at his feet. They observed authoritative kindness as He healed a man possessed of many evil spirits, helping him become himself again. While reading that account at Kursi, just below some cliffs where swine might have cast themselves down, still brings me a spirit of awe. The miracles of Capernaum still keep reminding me of his powerful saving grace. I still see Talitha, "curly locks", rise from the dead so that her family can be together again. I can hear him teach that "Families Can be Together Forever." Of Jesus' three year ministry, eighteen events are described in the first year, twenty-seven are described in the second year, and one-hundred-fifty are described in the third year, seventy-five of which happened within the last hundred and twenty hours of his life. These hours in Jerusalem are the most important in eternity. Recalling these events becomes more vivid to me as I see newly unearthed ruins of Jesus time. This help me reflect on his eternal gift of life. I so appreciate walking in his footsteps again and again and, as more time goes on, discovering more of them! |
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June 18, 2009 ANCIENT FOOTSTEPS NOT MODERN As usual, during our tours in Israel we stay away from modern public places such as discos, night cubs or pizza places. Our journey is to follow the ancient footsteps of the Lord and feel the Biblical events. We are blessed. We pray daily as the touring begins and the Lord gives us sweet experiences. It is certain that those who came to Israel last year were blessed to report their experiences to their families and friends. Many quietly whispered their witness that this was the time they needed to be in Israel. Others are awaiting the same experiences. And you know that Israel will be there - for you and for me! Jerusalem is the eternal city and Israel is a gathering place as appointed by the Lord. |
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May 12, 2009 TRADITIONAL JEWISH PRACTICES It is always a pleasure for me to demonstrate and explain traditional Jewish practices. LDS members are often surprised at the similarities with LDS customs and traditions. The Talith has symbolic representations that relate to a lamb and therefore the Savior. It is also the basis for the national Israeli flag. David Wolffsohn, who attended the First Zionist Congress in 1897, tells the story of the birth of the Israeli flag: "At the behest of our leader Herzl, I came to Basle to make preparations for the Zionist Congress… What flag would we hang in the Congress Hall? We have a flag--and it is blue and white. The TALITH with which we wrap ourselves when we pray: that is our symbol. Let us take this Talith from its bag and unroll it before the eyes of Israel and the eyes of all nations. So I ordered a blue and white flag with the Shield of David painted upon it. That is how the national flag, that flew over Congress Hall, came into being.” The Menorah has always fascinated people because of its striking visual image. It is a seven-branched candelabrum that has been a symbol of Judaism for almost 3000 years. It is the emblem of Israel and was used in the ancient Holy Temple of Jerusalem. The menorah in the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem had seven branches. After those Temples were destroyed, rabbis did not want to duplicate anything from the Temple and it became a tradition to use six-branched menoras. However, in modern times, some rabbis have gone back to the seven-branched menoras. Probably the best known of Jewish traditions is the Mezuzah, a small parchment scroll made from the skin of a clean (permitted) animal, which is rolled up inside a case with a small opening in such a way that the word Shaddai (Almighty) is visible through the opening. The Torah commands of these verses that "you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and in your gates." The 12th century rabbinic authority, Maimonides, stresses that this commandment is to be observed purely from love of God, and that the mezuzah is not a good luck charm with power to ward off evil spirits. Many people, however, are accustomed to kiss the mezuzah or to touch it and then kiss the fingers when entering or leaving the house. |
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April 22, 2009 GOOD TO BE BUSY This Friday I’m leaving for Israel to tour a group of 16, and then the following week I’ll be touring 46. After that, about 38 German Saints are making their annual pilgrimage to Israel with me. Their group is called “LDS Books” and they are dedicated to translating the greatest LDS books into German – and they've included our book, “Israel Revealed” in the list. It’s always good to be busy, especially when the work is connected to the Gospel and to the welfare of the people around me. So it appears that things are looking up this summer and I can look forward to helping many people with the gospel and with financial security. |
 Steven Rona |
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March
21, 2009 GOING HOME TO ISRAEL Traveling to Israel is always like going home no matter where you were born. That's the way it is for me even though I spend much of my time in Utah these days. Marilyn and I have lived in Israel during the past thirty plus years, and raised our children there, but whenever we return it's not a visit because it's home for us. There is always a feeling of excitement as I return to Israel and anticipate walking again in the footsteps of the Messiah. |
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March 2, 2009 ISRAEL GREEN I have to laugh when people ask me if Israel is a desert. In many areas of the country it is green and beautiful. So many visitors to the Holy Land are pleasantly impressed that their former perceptions of Israel being "flat, dry and dangerous" are quickly being replaced as they experience the peace, greenery and mountains of Israel. In Biblical times, Jerusalem, as well as most of the land of Israel was filled by thick, green forests of almond, olive and pine trees. But in the course of numerous wars and settlements, much of this lush greenery was destroyed and the soil left to dry out in the summer sun and wash away in the heavy winter rains. Various conquerors even deliberately burned the trees down. From earliest times farmers were forced to terrace the ground and build stone fences along the slopes to hold back the soil. This stone terracing is still in evidence all along Israel's landscape. A deliberate attempt has been made in modern times to replant trees, and now the ancient highways and hillsides are once again flanked by heavily forested areas. A philanthropic organization, the Jewish National Fund, has reclaimed close to a half-million acres by draining swamps, clearing and leveling the land. Jewish settlers, students and tourists have planted close to three-hundred million trees. |
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Marilyn
Rona TREES IN ISRAEL Every time a tree is planted in Israel the following prayer is said: "Thou who buildest Zion and Jerusalem take pleasure in Thy land and bestow upon it of Thy goodness and Thy grace. Give dew for a blessing and cause beneficent rains to fall in their season and her valleys and to water thereon every plant and tree and these saplings which we plant before Thee this day. Make deep their roots and wide their crown that they may blossom forth in grace amongst all the trees in Israel for good and for beauty . . . and strengthen the hands of all our brethren who toil to revive the sacred soil and make fruitful its wastes. Bless, O Lord, their might and may the work of their hands find favor before Thee. Look down from Thy holy habitation from heaven and bless this land that it may flow again with milk and honey." At the time that Orson Hyde journeyed in the Holy Land in 1841 to dedicate the Land, it was a waste land with a barrenness of dire proportions and remained so through the beginning of the 1900's. In Elder Hyde's memorable dedicatory prayer, he petitions the Lord to remove the sterility from the land known in Biblical times as a Land of flowing with Milk and Honey. Since the establishment of Keren Kayemet Le Yisrael in 1901, there has been a caring effort in repairing and restoring Israel's vast, neglected landscapes. To this end, over 200 million trees have been planted, transforming barren, rocky hills into lush, green forests. This project is remarkable amongst forestation efforts worldwide. Trees in Israel have been lovingly planted by people from all corners of the globe to honor loved ones or to commemorate someone dear. Thus, the forests are living legacies populated by billions of trees dedicated to millions of Israel's many friends through out the world. It is a tradition in Israel to plant a tree in memory of a loved one who has passed on. This tradition is magnified if the tree is planted in memory of a fallen soldier, showing a hope that a stripling's life will be restored the same way the Land's life has been replenished. And so, today, the saplings of the land . . . planted with dedicated hands become warriors . . . reclaiming the forsaken fertility of the land and transforming barren, rocky hills into lush, green forests. |
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February
24, 2009 ALL AGES LOVE ISRAEL I really enjoy the wide variety of people who travel with me to Israel every year. It is fun to get to know people of all ages and walks of life who want to experience the Holy Land. We have especially enjoyed the youth who have walked in the footsteps of Jesus with us and who now open their scriptures with new insight and understanding. Many of the families who have traveled with us have experienced the peace and serenity that they had found together while sitting on the Mount of Beatitudes or lingering at the Garden Tomb. It is a learning moment like none other for children of all ages. I often wonder what my life would have been like if I had never been in the Holy Land of Israel. |
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August
13,
2008 AMERICA ISRAEL FRIENDSHIP LEAGUE It was a privilege to help organize a special conference for The America Israel Friendship League of Utah which was called, "The Light Unto the Nations." The conference was held at the South Towne Expo Center in Sandy, Utah. It was an amazing event with many members of the community supporting it, including Utah's Attorney General, Mark Shurtleff, Rabbi Aron Heir of the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, and Willam Behrer, CEO of the National American-Israel Friendship League. Sam Glaser from Los Angeles entertained us with uplifting and energizing music. Proceeds will fund our Youth and Community Leadership Ambassador Program which sends youth and community leaders on friendship exchanges between Utah and Israel. |
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January 4,
2008 A VILLAGE WITH TWO NAMES There is a village in Israel that has two names: Neve Shalom and Wahat al-Salam. It is a cooperative village of Jews and Palestinian Arabs of Israeli citizenship. The village is situated between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv-Jaffa. Neve Shalom (in Hebrew) or Wahat al-Salam, (in Arabic) and it is home to both Jewish and Arab families. Jews and Muslims live side by side and work together in Neve Shalom's guest house, offices and schools. The children speak both Arabic and Hebrew and go to classes taught by an Arab and Jewish instructors. Students organize activities for Islamic and Jewish holidays, and learn about the history of the land from Israeli and Palestinian viewpoints. This village is an example of the best way for people to overcome prejudice by working together as neighbors and friends. |
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May 7, 2008 FIRESIDES ABOUT ISRAEL I've been giving firesides for many years, and have gotten to know wonderful people as I've traveled all over the country speaking about the Holy Land of Israel. If any of you want to attend one of my firesides you can see the schedule at my website www.israelrevealed.com -- just click on firesides. |
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December 12, 2007 BOOK OF MORMON LANDS Just as Lehi and Nephi left Jerusalem for a new promised land, I try to bring the Holy Land of Israel and the Book of Mormon Holy Land together. My groups sail the “Waters of Mormon,” and read King Benjamin’s address at a perfect Zarahemla setting. We often feel the Lord’s spirit as we relate the Savior’s appearance to the Nephites while sitting at ancient Mayan ruins showing the descending “upside down” God. These images and locations help us all feel the spiritual bond of the Children of Israel as they embrace the Savior in the New Promised Land. It always gives me new insight and understanding as I contemplate the fascinating Jewish/Biblical origins of recently unearthed glyphs, art and culture of Central America. The Book of Mormon Lands really bring Joseph and Judah together. |
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June 2006 SAFETY IN ISRAEL People often ask me about safety in Israel, and I have to say that it is more peaceful and safe on the streets of Israel than most US cities, including Salt Lake. My family has lived in Israel more than thirty years in safety -- it is a great place to raise children. We do not remember a single report of a tourist being harmed in the all the years we have lived in Israel. |
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ABOUT DANIEL RONA
I was born Daniel Denis Rosenthal in 1941 in the British Mandate of Palestine, where my German-Jewish parents had met and married after fleeing the Holocaust. my first five years growing up in Israel profoundly shaped my character. At the age of five, my parents separated, and I moved to New York City with my father, Herbert Rosenthal. Jewish heritage with its traditions and holiday observances were always a part of my identity and childhood upbringing. (my biography is on my website) My father, deeply troubled by his own survival when his parents had perished in Auschwitz, was earnestly seeking answers. He was perplexed that God could allow six million Jews to perish without giving any warning. In a one-time Manhattan synagogue, my father found where an LDS Ward happened to meet. He was impressed by the message of living prophets and the obvious truth he recognized therein. He was also amazed by the Israelite connection of “Joseph and Judah.” He wanted to become a member immediately, but was persuaded to wait until he was fully prepared, understanding that his baptism was a fulfilling step in his Jewish identity. Upon moving to Salt Lake City with my father, I developed a strong sense of gratitude for American freedoms and opportunities, while never diminishing my Jewish individuality. My father changed the family name from Rosenthal to Rona when we became U.S. citizens. |
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