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Writer's pictureSuzAnne Kaltbaum

Exploring Masada: A Captured Moment of History The sacred tradition of Torah transcription

As I sifted through my memories and photographs from my first visit to Israel, one image stood out – a poignant reminder of a moment in time, both ancient and modern. Little did I know, I had inadvertently captured history in the making at the iconic Masada.

In this snapshot, Rabbi Shimshon Israeli is engrossed in a sacred act – the creation of new Torahs. The very same synagogue that once cradled the ancient Torahs of Masada now witnesses the meticulous process of writing new chapters of wisdom.

"Be Inscribed" – these words echo through the air as 304,805 letters are carefully crafted in Hebrew. With a quill in hand, Rabbi Shimshon Israeli diligently transcribes the sacred text onto calfskin or parchment. It's a strenuous process, requiring precision and devotion from a skilled scribe.

This act of renewal connects the present to the past, bridging generations through the

Creation of new Torahs. Rabbi diligently transcribes the sacred text onto calfskin or parchment. This act of renewal connects the present to the past. Masada

. The echoes of history reverberate through the hallowed walls, intertwining the stories of those who once sought refuge in Masada with the contemporary dedication to preserving and perpetuating ancient wisdom.

As I revisit this image, I'm reminded that every corner of Israel holds layers of history waiting to be discovered. The synthesis of past and present in this photograph encapsulates the spirit of a nation whose roots run deep. It serves as a testament to the resilience of tradition and the continuous creation of history, one letter at a time.

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