Exploring Jewish History through the Second Temple Period

This week, we delved into the fascinating history of the Jews during the Second Temple Period and the Bar Kochba Revolt. Our journey began on Sunday in Jerusalem, where we explored the 2,000-year-old homes of Kohanim (temple priests), gaining insight into the daily lives of Jewish priests at the time. One of the highlights was an immersive virtual reality experience, allowing us to step back in time and witness the grandeur of the Second Temple as it once stood.

With an early curfew on Sunday night, we prepared for one of the most unforgettable experiences of the week—hiking up Masada before dawn. Reaching the top just in time for sunrise, we took in the breathtaking views before diving into the story of this iconic and tragic site. After descending the mountain, we enjoyed some well-earned relaxation floating in the Dead Sea, experiencing its unique and therapeutic waters.

Monday brought a new kind of adventure, as we crawled through underground caves once used by Jewish rebels fighting against the Romans during the Bar Kochba Revolt. Later, we gathered inside the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater for an interactive lesson and group activities that brought history to life.

The rest of the week was spent advancing through history in our classrooms while also engaging in meaningful discussions about the ongoing war efforts and the latest developments regarding the hostage deal. As always, the students continue to make connections between past and present, deepening their understanding of both Jewish history and the modern world.