Experiencing Tzfat

Today we visited the one of the four Holy cities of Israel, Tzfat. Upon arriving, we walked through the town passing tempting schwarma and falafel shops. We split up for lunch, satiating our Israeli food cravings, and afterwards explored the city. There were many galleries and local artist shops, where we had the chance to buy souvenirs.After lunch break, we visited three synogogues, all of which were Sephardic (Yotam explained that the difference between Ashkenazi and Sephardic synogogues is that Sephardic synogogues are in the round, and their food actually tastes good). Everything in the synogogues (and throughout the city) is blue, which signifies protection against the Evil Eye.

Tzfat is the most spiritual city in Israel, which is evident by the strong presence of Kabbalah and mysticism. Kabbalah bracelets are sold throughout the city, each depiciting the evil eye (we both go one!). We had the opportunity to meet with Avraham (Robert) Loewenthal, a local Kabbalist artist and follower of Kabbalah. A transplant from Detroit, Michigan 15 years ago, Avraham moved to Tzfat to study the teachings of Kabbalah and pursue the "A-MA-ZING-NESS" of Kabbalistic thinking. He shared the basic teachings of Kabbalah and explained how they are represented in his art. I (Emily) got a print! His art was very colorful and symboloized some of the major principles of Kabbalah. Kabbalah, as he explained, explores the internal spirituality within Judaism. He was very passionate about the various teachings of Kabbalah, emphasizing the "MIR-A-CAL" of us being together in the land of Israel and the deep meaning of our names.

All joking aside, Tzfat definitely had a very spiritual feel, which is obviously appreciated and shared by the people who live there. We both really enjoyed hearing from him (as did most of the group) and plan on learning more about Kabbalah by reading "Jewish Meditation". We had the opportunity to explore Tzfat a little more after our meeting with Avraham, enjoying the beautiful view of the mountains and the hidden blue alleys. We really enjoyed the local artistry and it was interesting to see different Israelis in their element. This was really our first encounter in a city setting, so it gave a different impression of ISraeli life compared to the Kibbutz. We are on the bus right now on our way to Jaffa about to stop, so love to all of the parents!

Shout out to all the rents! We're ok and alive =)

Love,

Emily and Amy