A Monumental Hellenistic-Period Ritual Compound in Upper Idumea

In 2017, following nearly a decade’s worth of excavations at the southern Judean Shephelah (Lowland) site of Ḥorbat Beit Lehi, the greater Beit Lehi Regional Project (BLRP) was inaugurated.1 The project comprises a large-scale, multi-disciplinary endeavor that involves the mapping, surveying and pin-pointed excavation of a designated area south of Maresha. Within the research area – encompassing approximately 36 sq km – are numerous archaeological sites ranging in date from the Iron Age II until the Mamluk period, including a net- work of small- and medium-sized forts dating to the Hellenistic and Early Roman periods.
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Beit Lehi Partners with American Veterans Archaeological

The Beit Lehi Foundation and American Veterans Archaeological Recovery (AVAR) have announced a partnership to bring U.S. military veterans to Israel to participate in the excavation of a new area of Horbat ‘Amuda, which lies within the Khirbet Beit Lehi Archaeological Project (“Beit Lehi”). Beit Lehi is an active archaeological site located southwest of Jerusalem in an area known as the Judean Lowland.

AVAR is a registered non-profit organization that integrates military veterans with physical and/or mental disabilities into a community of archaeological researchers that supports their rehabilitation through goal-oriented, team-centered excavations.

According to AVAR CEO Dr. Stephen Humphreys, “Israel is an ideal location for American veterans due not only to its extraordinary past, but also to the phenomenal people we are able to work with there today. The Israeli archaeologists we have worked with have all been veterans due to their country’s tradition of military service. Their shared background creates a natural bond which allows them to connect and assist one another in the process of healing.”

The social bonding that occurs while working toward a common objective is an important feature of AVAR. Participants share their interest and experiences in archaeology with others from the community of veterans and make new connections in the community of academic and professional archaeologists, connections that can lead to lifelong friendships or even a new career.

“When I learned that AVAR was interested in working on the Beit Lehi project, I was excited and gratified,” said Alan Rudd, President and co-Founder of the Beit Lehi Foundation. “AVAR’s involvement fits precisely within the mission of the Foundation – to generate awareness and create experiences for people to engage in the excavation and preservation of most significant archeological project in Israel. Working with U.S. Military veterans on the site will be magnificent, and further validates the significance of the project. I am looking forward to a long partnership with AVAR as we dig for knowledge in the Israeli Judaean foothills.”

The idea to bring AVAR veterans to Beit Lehi was the brainchild of Ms. Haber, co-director of Beit Lehi Regional Project and herself a veteran of the Israeli Armored Corps. “I became aware of AVAR through an item in the local media about its participation in another Israeli excavation and was very moved by the initiative. We immediately thought to reach out and explore the possibility of having one of their groups join us as well. In this small way we can thank the veterans for their service alongside introducing them to this amazing, unconventional project as a reflection of the many good things Israel has to offer.”

Dr. Oren Gutfeld, Director of the Beit Lehi Regional Project, who previously served in the Israeli Special Forces, added, “These American veterans are one with us. We feel that to a certain extent we share the same language and life experiences. Their willingness to make the long journey to dig with us cannot be taken for granted and we are truly looking forward to meeting and working together.”

AVAR joins other groups actively engaged in assisting at the Beit Lehi site including Utah Valley University. Since 2011, Students and faculty at Utah Valley University have provided invaluable assistance in the documentation of Beit Lehi project through its Engineering Design Technology and Digital Media programs. Students utilize digital imaging, LIDAR scanning, GPS, aerial drones and other technologies to map and document the site.

About American Veterans Archaeological Recovery (AVAR): AVAR is an American 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that uses archaeology projects to help veterans find a new sense of mission and purpose, build community, and learn vocational skills. AVAR has put over 60 veterans on excavations in the USA, UK, and Israel since its inception in 2015, thanks in part to a National Geographic Education Grant. Learn more at www.americanveteransarchaeology.org.

About Beit Lehi Foundation: Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, the Beit Lehi Foundation was organized in 2009 as a non-profit organization. Its purpose is to fund and manage the excavation and preservation of the Beit Lehi Regional Project, now popularized as “The Lost City of Ancient Israel.”

About Utah Valley University: Utah Valley University is the largest public university in Utah, with an enrollment of nearly 35,000 students. Under the direction of Professors Darin Taylor and Michael Harper, multiple teams of students and faculty from the University’s college of Engineering Design Technology and Digital Media come to work at the site each year. In 2017, the Beit Lehi project was recognized as the #1 engaged learning experience by the Administration and Board of Trustees of the university.

About Khirbet Beit Lehi: Under the sponsorship of the Beit Lehi Foundation and Hebrew University of Jerusalem, excavations have been ongoing at Beit Lehi for more than a decade under the direction of Dr. Oren Gutfeld and Mr. Yakov Kalman. The new area of Horbat ‘Amuda expands the area of Beit Lehi approximately 1.5 km further to the north, and will be co-directed by Dr. Oren Gutfeld and Ms. Michal Haber of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Institute of Archaeology, and Mr. Pablo Betzer of the Israel Antiquities Authority.

Artifacts date the first settlement at the Beit Lehi site around 800 B.C. (Iron Age II) as part of the Kingdom of Judah. However, with only a small portion of the site excavated, archaeologists believe a community could have existed at the site as far back as 1200 B.C. Beit Lehi was abandoned during the Babylonian conquest in 586 B.C., and soon after reoccupied by the Idumeans. Around 112 B.C. the area reverted to Jewish control under the Hasmoneans/ Maccabees, remaining so into the Herodian, or Late Second Temple period. Beit Lehi was inhabited by Jews, Christians, Idumeans, and Arabs until believed abandoned in the late 14th or 15th century A.D. Recent discoveries include the Tomb of Salome, the mother of James and John, apostles of Jesus.

The new area of Horbat ‘Amuda was likely an extension of Beit Lehi from the Early Hellenistic (4th/3rd century B.C.) to the Herodian/Early Roman period (1st century A.D.). In only one short season of excavation, Horbat ‘Amuda has produced several massive subterranean quarries, subterranean oil presses, and a number of tunnel networks used by Jewish rebels in their fight against Rome, and early Christian refugees. A beautifully built monumental structure was also unearthed, dated to the Early Hellenistic period, which may have served as either a temple or palace.

Utah Valley University technique helped to uncover an Idumean Palace or Temple in Israel

An impressive 2200-year-old structure has been unearthed in a dig by the Israel Antiquities Authority and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem A rare altar, adorned with an image of a bull in relief, was discovered inside the structure The structure was apparently dismantled intentionally, perhaps during the Hasmonean conquests of the region * The find was able thanks to a new drone survey developed by a UVU, who are working together with the HU in the last eight years

An impressive 2200-year-old (Hellenistic period) structure, possibly an Idumean palace or temple, was uncovered last October in archaeological excavations at the Beit Lehi (Loya in Hebrew) region, in the Judean Lowlands in Israel.

According to the excavation directors, Dr. Oren Gutfeld of the Hebrew University, and Pablo Betzer and Michal Haber of the Israel Antiquities Authority: “If this was indeed an Idumean palace or temple, it is a rare and exciting find – similar structures in this country can be counted on the fingers of one hand. It seems that the building was intentionally dismantled, possibly during the Hasmonean conquest of the region.”

Two stone incense altars were discovered in one of the rooms. One of them, bearing the carved image of a bull, is depicted as standing in what is apparently the façade of a temple adorned with magnificent columns. According to the archaeologists, the altar is “a unique and rare find in terms of its decoration.” The bull, they say, “may have symbolized a deity worshipped by the Idumeans.” In addition to the incense altar, delicate pottery vessels were also uncovered, including painted bowls, juglets and oil lamps.

Also found at the site are numerous underground spaces, used as quarries or to house ritual baths (miqvaot), oil presses and dovecotes. Hiding tunnels from the time of the Jewish revolts against the Romans were also discovered; one of these contained an intact cooking pot from the time of the Bar Kokhba Revolt (132–135 CE).

The new discovery came to light with the help of camera-equipped drones – technology that has become part of the archaeologists’ tool box in recent years thanks to UVU. In the last eight years, every spring a group of UVU faculties and students arriving to the site in Israel with 3-D Lidar scanners and drones with HD cameras and working at the site. As part of an extensive archaeological research: Beit Lehi Regional Project. The drone cameras photographed the archaeological remains from high above, subsequently revealing hints of the structure now under excavation. Calling the discovery a research breakthrough, the archaeologists say: “This technology helped us choose where to focus our excavation probes, and, indeed, it very quickly emerged that this was in fact a unique discovery. We hope that our continued excavation of the site in the spring will uncover more of the story told here.”

The excavation at the site in the last ten years, is funded by the Beit Lehi Foundation, Utah under Mr. Alan Rudd and Mr. Gary Rudd, and, was carried out with the participation of archaeology students from the Hebrew University, as well as a group of volunteers from the Beit Lehi Foundation, Utah.

UVU Students Using Space Age Technology to Capture Ancient Remains at Beit Lehi

Growing up in a family that spent nearly every weekend exploring the great outdoors of Utah instilled in me a passion for discovering the mysteries of the West. I can still remember the day I found my very first arrowhead at the age of five. With great clarity, I can recall the very location I was walking as well as other details about that memorable experience. As I grew older, I became even more curious about the ancient ones that roamed the mountains and deserts of Utah. In elementary school, while other kids were reading books about faraway places, I was repeatedly checking out books about Mesa Verde, the Anasazi’s, the Fremont and the Ute Indians. When people would ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up, my response was always quick and determined; I wanted to be an Archaeologist.

My passion for history and ancient western culture continued as I grew older but I also started to pursue other interests as well. In high school, and in college, I started to study Engineering Design Technology and Architecture. After winning several local, state and national competitions for the work I was doing in this newly discovered field of study, I decided that this career path was meant for me. I found myself working the next ten years for Rollins, Brown & Gunnell, a civil engineering firm in the state of Utah. Through a series of life events, and additional education, I became a tenured professor at Utah Valley University (UVU) teaching Civil Engineering Design Technology, as well as Construction and Land Surveying. I must have liked it since I have now been at UVU for the last 27 years. Little did I know that this rewarding career path would eventually come full circle leading me back to what I always wanted to do as a child. Yes, archaeology.

In the fall of 2009, while serving as the Department Chair of Engineering Design Technology (EDT) at UVU, I received a phone call from a gentleman by the name of Alan Rudd of the Beit Lehi Foundation out of Cottonwood Heights, Utah. He asked if he could meet with me about an archaeology project he was involved with over in Israel. I have to admit that we receive numerous calls and requests every week from individuals wanting us to take on their particular projects. With limited time and resources, my usual response is “No”. However, unlike others, this project was in Israel and Alan peaked my interest when he said it involved the surveying and mapping of an archaeology site that was over 2000 years old. In the back of my mind, I was already thinking, “Sign me up”.

After our first meeting, I could tell that Mr. Rudd had done his homework and knew a great deal about our program, and the individual disciplines we teach. He made a good point of showing how our expertise was exactly what he needed to carry out the work in Israel. As a result, in April of 2010 we boarded an airplane and headed to the Middle East. The Dean, Ernest Carey; the Associate Dean, Larry Marsing; and myself, Darin Taylor, accompanied Alan on a fact-finding mission to see if this project would indeed be a good fit for UVU and the EDT department. We had lots of questions, and reservations, but found that all of our concerns about safety and logistics were calmed as we met with the local archaeologists and government officials associated with the project. At the completion of our trip, we determined that the Beit Lehi Israel project was too valuable of an opportunity to turn down.
UVU has always focused on the engaged learning model of education, with hands on experiences outweighing that of just learning from a textbook inside the walls of a classroom. Little did we know that nine years later the Beit Lehi Israel project would become UVU’s premier engaged learning project involving multiple departments from all across our campus. In just a few years, the project quickly gained notoriety and has received media coverage from all around the world. Students and faculty from Engineering Design Technology, Digital Media Technology, Geomatics, Construction Management, Communications and English, have all found themselves crawling through tunnels and chambers dating back over 2000 years. This project has literally changed the lives of all involved, including me.

Because of the Beit Lehi project, UVU students have been engaged directly with a wide array of tasks that have tested and enhanced the skills learned in their traditional classrooms. For example: EDT, Geomatics and Construction Management students have been surveying and mapping the site using advanced technologies such as LIDAR scanners, GPS base stations and rovers, laser equipped total stations, automatic levels and even advanced aerial photography through the use of drones. Architectural students and faculty have been designing a future visitor’s center, as well as other protective structures needed to develop the site.
Digital Media and Communication students have designed and implemented a digital site guide, digital magazines and other applications for IPADS, IPhones, Kindles and other platforms. These very same students have also helped in the design and implementation of a website for the Beit Lehi Foundation. DGM students have been deeply involved in the filming, editing and production of numerous documentaries airing on cable networks and other media outlets. The list of projects and related accomplishments just mentioned are but a small sampling of all the work that has taken place since that initial phone call from Alan Rudd in 2009.

One of the latest technologies used by the EDT and Geomatics students to survey and map the Beit Lehi archaeology site is that of LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) scanning. In fact, UVU was one of the very first institutions to implement this new technology in the country of Israel. As a result, UVU faculty members Dan Perry and Darin Taylor have provided numerous training seminars and presentations to other professionals wanting to learn how to use this space age technology in the world of archaeology.

LIDAR scanning is a surveying and mapping method that measures the distances to objects by illuminating them with a pulsating laser light and measuring the reflected pulses with a sensor. Differences in laser return times and wavelengths are used to create a digital 3D model of the target. This method of surveying allows a person to capture millions of points in a matter of minutes. These 3D models of captured survey points are called “Point Clouds”.

Point cloud files are used to accomplish numerous tasks in the surveying and engineering world but it is also a very new and useful technology for the mapping of archaeology sites. Traditionally, archaeologists spend countless hours taking manual measurements with tape measures and instruments allowing them to draw very detailed hand sketches to document a site. With LIDAR technology, captured point cloud files are producing extremely accurate drawings and cross sections of the site in a much faster fashion than the older traditional methods.

Cross sections are detailed drawings showing profile views cut through the site at various locations and elevations. They are a crucial part of the archaeology reporting process. The advantage of LIDAR scanning is that a cross section can be drawn using post processing software at any location and elevation desired. These drawings were very time consuming with the traditional method of archaeology surveying but with LIDAR it is as simple as asking the software to analyze the 3D model at various locations, very much like a MRI scan in the medical field.
In order to accomplish a LIDAR scan in an archaeology setting, the scanner must be set up in a strategic location so that it can capture as much data as possible. LIDAR scanning is what we call line-of-sight scanning. Unlike an X-ray, it can’t see through walls, rocks or other obstructions. LIDAR technology requires the scanner to be set up in multiple locations to capture all the required data to produce the drawings. Picture yourself in an underground chamber with four large square columns or pillars extending from the floor to support the ceiling. The LIDAR scanner would not be able to capture the entire room because of the four pillars blocking it’s view. Therefore, the scanner would need to be set up in multiple locations to get a full scanned image of the entire room. As the shape of the room becomes more and more complex, the need for multiple scanner set-ups is also increased.

In order for the post processing software to merge all the individual scans into one 3-Dimensional image, the scanner must be set up in various locations so that it can recognize common points in each of the individual scans. To accomplish this, reflective targets are set up throughout the room in strategic locations so they are visible in each of the individual scans. A minimum of three common targets must be seen from each of the scanner locations. The surveyor must keep meticulous and detailed field notes in order to plan for the scanner locations and to track the placement of the reflective targets.

LIDAR scanning is an expensive technology with the equipment and software costing well over $100,000. It also presents other challenges, such as transporting the equipment on airplanes and buses. On numerous occasions, airport security has detained us as we travel to and from Israel because they are not familiar with this advanced technology. As far as they know, we are transporting some space age nuclear weapon. On one occasion, we even witnessed the scanner being dropped from a conveyor belt onto the runway as we were transferring airplanes in New York. For the reasons just mentioned, there is always a heightened level of stress as we travel with the scanner. That stress remains until we reach our hotel rooms and make sure the equipment will turn on, boot up and run properly.

Although the scanner has its challenges, the results of the 3D scans is well worth the added expense and stress. 3D scans are being used in a variety of ways. For example, one of the amazing finds at Beit Lehi is the foundation, and mosaic floor, of a beautiful Byzantine era basilica. The mosaic floor is one of the most colorful, ornate and well-preserved floors found in all of Israel. However, one of the concerns is that the floor is currently exposed to the elements and is in need of a protective structure to cover it.
In the architectural process of designing a building to cover the mosaic floor, a 3D LIDAR scan proved to be very valuable. Robert Price, the current Department Chair and faculty member in EDT, first took a scan of the existing Byzantine chapel floor. Next, the scan was imported into an architectural design software called REVIT. The software then allowed Robert to design a new building that matched the existing footprint of the Byzantine chapel.

Another use of scanned images involves that of 3D printing technology. A LIDAR scan of an ancient olive press on the site was used to print a 3-Dimensional replica out of ABS plastic on a 3D printer. This advanced technology allows an archaeologist to replicate any kind of structure or artifact that is discovered on a site. In fact, a small-scale print, the approximate size of a shoebox, was made of the olive press and given to Oren Gutfeld, the lead archeologist of the Beit Lehi project.

Another use of the LIDAR scanner at Beit Lehi involved the surveying and mapping of an ancient Ritual Bath and Olive Oil Press complex. This is a very unique installation situated very deep underground. They were actually carved out of the soft limestone material found in the area. The two structures were built so close to one another that a person can knock on the wall of one chamber and here it in the room next door. These two rooms are situated deep underground making it very difficult to know just how close one sits to the other. After the LIDAR scans were completed and analyzed, it showed that there was only 10” of limestone material between the two underground structures. It was also determined that there was approximately 10’ of limestone from the ceiling of the structures to the ground surface above. This information is valuable when determining if a bus would be allowed to drive over the ancient structures without the risk of collapse.

In a world where cultural artifacts are being destroyed daily as the result of war or political unrest, it becomes even more critical that archaeology sites are being properly mapped and documented. Through this work, precious history is being preserved for many generations to come. With the use of LIDAR technology, archaeological remains are digitally preserved for as long as the files can be protected and stored. Ancient cities that have been scanned can now be reconstructed to exact dimensions and details. LIDAR scanning is changing the way that archaeologists are documenting their sites, and how they are reporting their discoveries. Instead of the traditional paper drawings that accompany archaeology reports, a CD or web link can now be inserted into the front cover of the report. Digital files can now be accessed by a computer or tablet to see the captured images and drawings. All of a sudden, a 2000-year-old site can come to life as if you had traveled back in time.

Methods and procedures of mapping archaeology sites are ever changing. The old methods are quickly being replaced with new space-age technology. LIDAR scans and 3D models are taking things from the past and preserving them for perhaps another 2000 years. The most fascinating thing about this modern way of mapping archaeology sites is that some young boy, or girl, who is aspiring to be an archaeologist someday, can actually find himself or herself walking digitally through an ancient site as if they were there in person. Just like that day when I found my first arrowhead, I can remember with great clarity, the absolute amazement I experienced when I viewed the results of our very first LIDAR scan.

The Introduction of Salome

According to the Gospel of James (also known as the Protevangelium of James), a well-known apocryphal text, Salome was a witness of the miraculous birth of Jesus. In canonized scripture she is first mentioned in the New Testament as a disciple of Jesus. She is sometimes identified as the wife of Zebedee and the mother of James and John, two of the Apostles of Jesus, However, her name appears more frequently in apocryphal writings associated with the Savior’s birth. Since Salome is believed to have been present at both the Savior’s birth and death, it is important to know who this woman was and the role she played as a witness of Jesus’s divinity.

The early Church of Jesus Christ was a family affair in many ways. John the Baptist was a cousin to Jesus, and the original Quorum of the Twelve included at least two sets of brothers and probably three: Peter and Andrew, James and John, and probably Matthew and James, who was nicknamed “the Less” to distinguish him for James the Son of Zebedee (Mark 2:14; Mathew 10:3). Therefore, it is probable that Salome was related to either Mary or Joseph. However, when she is mentioned as a “sister of Mary”, it may have reference to their “sisterhood”, and not blood sisters. However, very little is known of Mary’s family and her upbringing.

In the Gospel of James, Salome is identified as the midwife that was to be present at the birth of Jesus but was late in arriving. She is also identified as the midwife of James the Just, Jesus’ brother. In chapters XVIII – XX of the Gospel of James it reads:

XVIII. I And he [Joseph] found a cave there and brought her [Mary] into it, and set his sons by her: and he went forth and sought for a midwife of the Hebrews in the country of Bethlehem. 2 Now I Joseph was walking and I walked not. And I looked up to the air and saw the air in amazement. And I looked up unto the pole of the heaven and saw it standing still, and the fowls of the heaven without motion. And I looked upon the earth and saw a dish set, and workmen lying by it, and their hands were in the dish: and they that were chewing chewed not, and they that were lifting the food lifted it not, and they that put it to their mouth put it not thereto, but the faces of all of them were looking upward. And behold there were sheep being driven, and they went not forward but stood still; and the shepherd lifted his hand to smite them with his staff, and his hand remained up. And I looked upon the stream of the river and saw the mouths of the kids upon the water and they drank not. And of a sudden all things moved onward in their course.

XIX. I And behold a woman coming down from the hill country, and she said to me: Man, whither goest thou? And I said: I seek a midwife of the Hebrews. And she answered and said unto me: Art thou of Israel? And I said unto her: Yea. And she said: And who is she that bringeth forth in the cave? And I said: She that is betrothed unto me. And she said to me: Is she not thy wife? And I said to her: It is Mary that was nurtured up in the temple of the Lord: and I received her to wife by lot: and she is not my wife, but she hath conception by the Holy Ghost. And the midwife said unto him: Is this the truth? And Joseph said unto her: Come hither and see. And the midwife went with him. 2 And they stood in the place of the cave: and behold a bright cloud overshadowing the cave. And the midwife said: My soul is magnified this day, because mine eyes have seen marvelous things: for salvation is born unto Israel. And immediately the cloud withdrew itself out of the cave, and a great light appeared in the cave so that our eyes could not endure it. And by little and little that light withdrew itself until the young child appeared: and it went and took the breast of its mother Mary.

And the midwife cried aloud and said: Great unto me to-day is this day, in that I have seen this new sight. 3 And the midwife went forth of the cave and Salome met her. And she said to her: Salome, Salome, a new sight have I to tell thee. A virgin hath brought forth, which her nature alloweth not. And Salome said: As the Lord my God liveth, if I make not trial and prove her nature I will not believe that a virgin hath brought forth.

XX. 1 And the midwife went in and said unto Mary: Order thyself, for there is no small contention arisen concerning thee. Arid Salome made trial and cried out and said: Woe unto mine iniquity and mine unbelief, because I have tempted the living God, and lo, my hand falleth away from me in fire. And she bowed her knees unto the Lord, saying: O God of my fathers, remember that I am the seed of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob: make me not a public example unto the children of Israel, but restore me unto the poor, for thou knowest, Lord, that in thy name did I perform my cures, and did receive my hire of thee. 3 And lo, an angel of the Lord appeared, saying unto her: Salome, Salome, the Lord hath hearkened to thee: bring thine hand near unto the young child and take him up, and there shall be unto thee salvation and joy. 4 And Salome came near and took him up, saying: I will do him worship, for a great king is born unto Israel. And behold immediately Salome was healed: and she went forth of the cave justified. And Lo, a voice saying: Salome, Salome, tell none of the marvels which thou hast seen, until the child enters into Jerusalem.”

The entire 66th chapter of Isaiah speaks of the Second Coming, but verse 7 is an interesting passage that has reference to the first coming of the Savior into the world: “before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.” The birth of Jesus was not in the ordinary manner of men, as his birth appears to be without the accompanying labor pains of birth. Christ, it would appear, came forth through the veil, not from the womb.

The Arabic Gospel of James adds that when the attending mid-wife entered the cave with Joseph that she beheld that it was filled with light more beautiful than gleaming lamps and candles, more splendid than the light of the sun. When the light gradually diminished, the child was seen “shinning just as the dew of the Most High God.” The cloud that overshadowed Mary in the cave is reminiscent of the cloud of Glory that settled on Sinai (Exod. 24:15-17); the cloud of Glory that consecrated the new tabernacle (Exod. 40:34); the cloud that came to consecrate Solomon’s new temple (Kings 8:10-11); the cloud at the transfiguration as expressed by Matthew; and the cloud that guided the children of Israel through the desert in route to the Promised Land. News of the miraculous birth spread—a child born without pain and blood, and to a virgin—before and after the birth.

The apocryphal Book of the Resurrection of Christ, attributed to the apostle Bartholomew, names the women who went to the tomb. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, whom Jesus delivered out of the hand of Satan; Mary who ministered to him; Martha her sister; Joanna (perhaps Susanna) who renounced the marriage bed; and “Salome.”
The Gospel of Thomas found at Nag Hammadi mentions that among the “disciples” of Jesus were two women, Salome and Mary. Most believe that the “Mary” has reference to Mary Magdalene. However, many scholars believe that the Mary mentioned by Thomas could be Salome’s mother (also named Mary), the sister of Elizabeth and Anne (Anne being the mother of Jesus’ mother, Mary). Thus, Salome and Mary, the mother of Jesus, would be cousins.

The Secret Gospel of Mark, referred to and quoted in the Mar Saba Letter ascribed to Clement of Alexandria, contains a further mention of Salome which is not present in the Gospel of Mark but which completes the event ascribed in Mark10:46. Clement quotes the following passage in his letter:

“Then he came to Jericho. And the sister of the young man whom Jesus loved was there with his mother and Salome, but Jesus would not receive them.”

In the early non-canonical Greek Gospel of the Egyptians (early 2nd century), Salome appears again as a disciple of Jesus. She asks Jesus how long death would hold sway, and he says to her, “So long as women bring forth, for I come to end the works of the female.” To this Salome replies, “Then I have done well in not bringing forth.” It would appear from this text that there was an early tradition that Salome was childless, and possibly unmarried, at least when the statement was purported to have been made. However, if genealogical research and records are accurate, my grandmother, Esther Jackson Rudd, is a descendant of Salome and, therefore, Salome was married at some time, and was not childless.

In the Gospel of Thomas there is a reference to Jesus sharing Salome’s couch at a meal, and Salome’s esoteric questioning. “Who are you sir,” she asks him, “that you have taken your place on my couch and eaten from my table?” And Jesus says, “I am he who is from the One, and the things that belong to the Father have been given to me.” Salome replies, “But I am your disciple”, and Jesus answers, “When the disciple is united he will be filled with light, but if he is divided he will be filled with darkness.”

Even non-Christian writers in the 2nd century were aware that some tradition existed of secret teachings passed down from “Salome the disciple.” A sect known as the Carpocratians claimed to have derived some of their tenets from Salome. Celsus, a 2nd century Greek, wrote a True Discourse attacking all Christian sects as a threat to the Roman state. One of the sects he mentions is Harpocratian Christians who trace themselves to Salome.

Salome is the first person, after the attending midwife, to bear witness to the miraculous birth and to recognize Jesus as the Christ. By the Middle Ages, Salome became identified with Mary Salome in the West, the believing midwife. Salome would later marry Zebedee and would be the mother of James and John, the apostles. She would be one of the women at the crucifixion, as well as one of the women who would witness the empty tomb on Resurrection morning and hear the angels declare, “He is risen.”

By: Alan Rudd, President of Beit Lehi Foundation

The Pulse of the Middle East

A military zone has long inhibited exploration of the ancient and massive site of Beit Lehi, but archaeologists are using technology to share its secrets with the world. A team of Israeli and American researchers is using cutting-edge technology to explore and document an obscure and inaccessible but increasingly significant archaeological site in central Israel.

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Utah Valley University (UVU) are expected to roll out in August a one-of-a-kind multimedia guide integrating 3D imaging and virtual reality to bring the ancient city of Beit Lehi, touted as “the lost city of ancient Israel,” to life. The digital guide to the site is slated to be launched next month.

Beit Lehi, also known as Beit Loya, lies 37 kilometers (23 miles) southwest of Jerusalem in the rolling limestone foothills of the Judean Mountains not far from the UNESCO World Heritage site at Beit Guvrin. A closed military zone encompasses the entirety of the archaeological site, severely limiting civilian access and preventing development.

The site, which extends over a few hilltops, was occupied intermittently from the Iron Age down through the Mamluk period — nearly 2,200 years — before being abandoned around 1400 A.D. The surface bears the remains of a medieval mosque and village and an earlier Byzantine church, but below are a series of underground chambers carved out of the soft limestone. These include a massive columbarium (dovecote) with over 1,000 niches for birds, making it possibly one of the largest in the world, as well as stables, quarries with gigantic support pillars and escape tunnels, all dating from the 3rd and 2nd centuries B.C. to the 2nd century A.D.

Archaeologists have found over 50 different inscriptions at various places around the site in Hebrew, Greek and Arabic, including a 6th century B.C. Hebrew inscription bearing the name of Jerusalem and the Israelite god Yahweh.

First excavated in the 1980s, Hebrew University archaeologist Oren Gutfeld has returned in recent years with colleagues from the Israel Antiquities Authority and UVU to continue exploring and documenting the site.

“This area is untouched by archaeology, but it’s a gold mine,” Gutfeld told Al-Monitor as his jeep rumbled over the rocky track leading to Beit Lehi. He estimates that only around 10-15% of the site has been excavated. “We don’t have any idea how big it is. That’s the question.”

The UVU team has aided Hebrew University archaeologists in mapping and imaging the site using technology used by engineers to measure and map bridges and roads. Lidar — a laser imaging detection and ranging device capable of making 20 million measurements in 12 minutes — is being used to create three-dimensional maps of Beit Lehi’s vast caverns and tunnels. Advanced 360-degree cameras take photographs that are stitched together to create a high-quality image of these massive spaces that can be used in virtual reality applications.

Aboveground, the UVU researchers have deployed drones to create high definition aerial images of the ancient city’s structures. They not only document the site but have also helped discover previously unknown buildings. Michael Harper, a professor of digital media at UVU, explained that by using a technique called photogrammetry, the aerial photos taken by drones create topographically “flat” images that make the concealed outlines of structures “pop” out of the tawny scrubland.

Aerial images captured by the drones also revealed a previously unknown Iron Age settlement dating back nearly 3,000 years. Gutfeld’s team has started to excavate another discovery: an enormous Hellenistic period cultic complex — at least 40 meters long and 45 meters wide. “People thought it was a small community, but now we know it was a large urban center,” Gutfeld said.

The remains of imported luxury goods from as far afield as Rhodes and a subterranean oil press “are not indicative of modest, sleepy villages,” said Michal Haber, an archaeologist with the Israel Antiquities Authority involved in the dig. Instead, Beit Lehi appears to have been a prosperous, interconnected town during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. “We feel that every [dig] season, there’s something new” that is discovered, Haber told Al-Monitor.

Michael Harper, a UVU professor of digital media who is heading the project, said that the various types of images being taken at the site by students from Utah are being used both for research and to create a multimedia guidebook and “interactive magazine” that provides users with information about Beit Lehi. The magazine integrates 3D images of artifacts found at the site, aerial photos and other types of media to let users explore and understand the site in a more comprehensive way than a rare visit would be able to.

The digital media element of the project is one of several opportunities for UVU students across multiple disciplines to participate in hands-on “engaged learning” and gain valuable experience, Harper said, from photography and publishing to graphic design.
The magazine, whose first issue is due online this fall, is expected to be updated annually and will include rolling updates about new finds and articles about different aspects of Beit Lehi’s history.

Ilan Ben Zion is a Jerusalem-based reporter for the Associated Press and freelance. He holds a master’s degree in diplomacy from Tel Aviv University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toronto, graduating with honors in Near and Middle Eastern civilizations, Jewish studies and English.

Hostess to the World – Irene E. Staples

In the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, few women have had such a profound effect upon the world around her as did Irene Staples. Yet, few people in the church today would even know her name. Irene Staples was the first official hostess for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. As official Church hostess, Irene’s testimony was heard by thousands of people from countries around the world. And although she may not be well known by members of the Church today the effect for good she had upon the Church, and upon the people with whom she came in contact, literally change the world in which she lived.

Her main assignment as the official Church hostess was to serve as a guide to the many guests and VIPs that came to Salt Lake City. She would also be available to government officials, businessmen, and friends and acquaintances that would all call Irene to meet and greet visitors that came from around the country and the world to visit Utah. As Church hostess, Irene worked seven days a week, 12 to 14 hours a day, and was on call day and night. Irene often entertained visitors in our home, sharing home cooked meals and homespun wisdom. At the end of the evening, no one left empty-handed… everyone was given a copy of the Book of Mormon.
Irene’s home away from home was Temple Square. It was most often here in the shadow of the temple spires, with the power of the spirit of God surrounding her, that she would do her best work. After the common greetings and pleasantries were completed, she would begin at the Seagull Monument. It was here she would meet individuals and groups to begin a tour she had perfected, memorized, and filled with insights and moving stories about Mormon people.

The story of both of Irene’s grandparents begins with the last prophecy of Joseph Smith, given to one of his bodyguards, Dan Jones, the night before Joseph and Hiram were killed by a mob in Carthage jail. Elder Jones was with the prophet in Carthage jail. After the others had fallen asleep, Joseph asked Elder Jones, “are you afraid to die?” Dan Jones responded with courage fueled by his faith, “has that time come?” It was then that the prophet spoke his last words of prophecy in mortality when he said, “you will yet see Wales and fulfill the mission appointed you before you die.” At the request of the prophet, Elder Jones left Carthage the next day to deliver a letter from Joseph to Orvil H. Browning. He was called several months later to go on a mission to Wales with his wife Jane. Among the thousands of converts that Elder Jones brought into the church were two families of importance to Irene, the Edwards and Davis families. John Edwards, Jr. and Gwennie Davis were Irene’s grandparents. Irene was born in 1905 and died at the age of 92 in 1998.
From volumes of journals, notes, correspondence, interviews and from many other sources of other information, Irene’s grandson, Kevan Kingsley Clawson, with the help from other family members, published Irene Staples life’s experiences in 2008.

Perhaps her greatest accomplishment was her involvement in the opening of Israel to the Church, and helping to obtain the land for the Orson Hyde Memorial Park that sits on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. Of particular interest to those familiar with the work at Beit Lehi, was Irene’s involvement with Joseph Ginat and her intimate knowledge of the relationship that Joseph and his wife had with leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The following is copied nearly verbatim from the book published by her grandson as it pertains to Israel, Joseph Ginat, and the discoveries Beit Lehi. The entire book is worth the read!

In February 1971, Irene Staples was contacted by Prof. Joseph Ginat of Israel. Joseph was one of the first exchange professors to teach several semesters at the University of Utah. Consul General Moshe Yegar told Joseph Ginat to connect with Irene Staples and that she would take good care of him when he got to Utah. Irene had hosted Consul General Yegar on several occasions and he knew that Irene would take good care of Joseph and his family. Irene’s gift of the Book of Mormon to Joseph would have a profound affect upon Joseph and would lay the foundation for a spectacular revelation related to an archaeological find in the land of Israel. On February 24, 1971, Irene sent the following letter to apostle Mark E Peterson:

Last week I entertained Professor and Mrs. Joseph Ginat from Jerusalem. He is a guest professor at the University of Utah. The Consul General of Israel, Moshe Yegar, whom I have hosted here and who I still correspond with, recommended that they should get in touch with me. We had a most interesting evening, discussing our church with its beliefs and closeness with the Jews. Professor Ginat said, “I am very interested in your church, is it possible that I can learn more? Little did he know that had just asked Golden Question. I am arranging for church discussion to be given to them by Sherman Young, Cleon Skousen, and others.

It was due to one of these “coincidences” that God seems to put together, that a remarkable event came to light: the discovery of the cave of Lehi Southwest Jerusalem. The discovery of the cave and the revelation concerning its connection with the Book of Mormon, was a significant step forward in the relationship between the Church and Israel. Many Israeli visitors had come to Salt Lake City and felt the spirit that permeated Temple Square, but most seem to be waiting for something more — some sort of proof that what they had discovered in the Mormon church was really true. The proof was about to be revealed, and would send shockwaves throughout the Jewish community, especially since the connection between the cave of Lehi and the Book of Mormon was made by a Jew, Joseph Ginat. Irene described how her relationship with Joseph developed in her personal journal:

“Joseph Ginat, the Israeli Deputy advisor on Arab affairs to the Prime Minister of Israel, Golda Meir, has taken a two-year leave of absence to obtain his doctoral degree in archaeology of the Middle East. He is also an authority on ancient scripture in the Middle East and Middle East history.

Although well supplied with references to attend New York University including from many top government officials in Israel, including Golda Meir, Moshe Dayan, and others, he received an unexpected invitation from the University of Utah to both work on his doctorate and teach as well.

In 1970 the University of Utah had written to a University in Israel, and asked if there was a professor who would like to come in teach in the department of the anthropology and archaeology. Joseph Ginat was asked to fill this request, but he was not interested. He said that he had already made plans to go to New York University to not only teach but also to work on his doctorate. New York University had greater prestige and he had a cousin living in New York which would add interest to his being there. He added, “Where is Utah? I have never heard of the place. No, I am not interested. I have already made plans to go to New York.”

He awoke in the middle of the night when a voice spoke to him. Whether it was an actual voice, or the definite words in a dream, he does not know, but he was awakened by hearing a voice say: GO TO UTAH!” He became wide-awake and was quite overwhelmed and emotionally moved upon hearing this voice advising him to go to Utah. He knew he must go. He could hardly wait until morning, to go back to the University and tell them that regardless of where Utah was, he had changed his mind, he wanted to go to Utah!

He would later say, “Irene, I cannot say how this voice came to me, but I heard! It woke me up, and I knew I had to go to Utah. This is truly what happened—someone told me that I must go to Utah. I hope there is a purpose in my coming here.”

As Joseph Ginat began to read the Book of Mormon, he was touched by the spirit and almost immediately felt it was true. He expressed many times how it would be impossible for anyone to write the first seven chapters of the Book of Mormon had they not actually lived in the land of Palestine. These chapters describe the travels of Lehi and his family as they attempted to flee Jerusalem. In the process, they traveled back and forth to Jerusalem several times. Joseph was convinced that the descriptions of their travels were specific enough, and fit the terrain and profile of Israel so well, that it would be impossible for anyone to write these chapters without having a firm knowledge of the land of Israel.
After Joseph began to believe in the Book of Mormon both spiritually and intellectually, he happened to read an article that was about to change his life. He had recently purchased a new book concerning recent archaeological finds in Israel. One evening the wind coming in the window fluttered the papers and stopped at an article written by Frank Moore Cross, Jr. (an expert from Harvard on somatic cultures) concerning a recent discovery. While building a new road in the demilitarized zone between Israel and its southern neighbors, the Israeli military had discovered a cave with ancient writing on the walls. Cross interpreted the inscriptions as being written by a prophet fleeing from Jerusalem during the Babylonian invasion—the same period of time that the Book of Mormon claims the prophet Lehi and his family left Jerusalem.

This discovery started a chain of events established by Israeli law. If someone were digging the foundation for a new building or simply digging in the backyard garden, and happened across any ancient bones, pottery, graves, caves, etc., this meant that all work had to stop until archaeologists could be assigned to complete an excavation to determine its importance. Once the work of the archaeologists had been completed, the land or project would be returned to the owner. Because of these laws, as soon as the military discovered a cave with writing on the wall all work on the road was halted until research should be done on the cave.

As fate would have it, Joseph Ginat happened to read this archaeological paper shortly after reading the first few chapters of the Book of Mormon. It did not take long for him to put the pieces of the puzzle together. The paper said that it had been determined that the writing on the cave was dated back to 600 B.C. . . . the very same time the Book of Mormon claims Lehi and his family left Jerusalem! Irene describes Joseph and his feelings of revelation and discovery as follows:

During this time a most unusual experience happened. Joseph obtained a new book on archaeology for use in writing his thesis. After finding the chapter pertaining to the subject, he began to read when, all of a sudden, the papers turned over to a different chapter. This startled him and he wondered what it happened – but he began to read this new chapter.

As he read, it became so fascinating that he could not put it down. It told of a new archaeological discovery of a cave almost 23 miles south of Jerusalem. Archaeologists could read and interpret the drawings and inscriptions on the walls, but so far they were at a loss to know who or what people put them there! However, there were five things they had definitely established:

1. The drawings and inscriptions dated back to the time of Jeremiah, around 600 B.C.

2. They were not burial tombs but were temporary shelters, or places of refuge.

3. The drawings are of people and ships.

4. The name given by archaeologists to the cave site is “Ancient Dwelling of Lehi.”

5. There are three human figures with the inscriptions—one stands out from the other two.

The more Joseph read, the more excited he became. He stayed up all night reading and comparing the Bible, the archaeological books, and the Book of Mormon. He had come to the conclusion that this was the cave where Lehi’s sons escaped as described in I Nephi 3:27. “. . . and the servants of Laban did not overtake us, as we hid ourselves in the cavity of a rock.”

Later, Joseph called me at 5 o’clock in the morning and said, “Irene, I have to talk to you. I have discovered something. I have to talk to you immediately!”

Joseph, an archaeologist himself, discovered a connection between the story of Lehi in the Book of Mormon and the land of Lehi in Israel. While building a military road along the hill they broke into a cave. In this cave they found writings on the wall dating back to 600 B. C. They found sketches of sailing ships and wondered who in this mountainous area would be drawing ships. The writings were asking Jehovah to forgive them and to deliver them. The sketches were of three men – one man with his arms raised in the attitude of prayer. This cave is in the land of Lehi, about 20 miles southwest from Jerusalem.

Joseph said, Irene can you see the connection? You remember when Lehi sent his sons to get the records and Laban refused to give the records to them? How Nephi suggested that they go back to the land of their inheritance to get the gold and silver and precious things which had been left there when they had started on their journey? Nephi records that they took these precious things to Laban to buy the records, and when Laban saw these things he took them and sent his servants to kill Nephi and his brothers.

Joseph knows this area of Israel very well; it is in a direct line down to the Red Sea – to a place where the Bible indicates they built ships. The cave is south of Jerusalem and the Book of Mormon tells of them “going down” to the wilderness and up and down the notes north and south according to the customs of the Israeli speech. This, too, coincides with the area of the caves from Jerusalem.

According to Joseph, no one in this area or at this time would be drawing ships. They were too far inland and knew nothing or very little about ships, but would have drawn objects more familiar to them such as houses, animals, trees, etc.

In that time the people took their names from the places where they lived thus Lehi came from the land of Lehi. His sons knew this area, and when escaping to save their lives they naturally went to a hiding place with which they were familiar. It is interesting that Joseph says that Mormonism is the religion for the Jews, for the beginning of Mormonism was in Jerusalem itself! Commencing with father Lehi!
At the same time, discoveries were being made in South America that touched on a connection with Israel. One was the discovery of the tree of life Stela, the other a carving showing a Mayan King with the “Star of David” as an earring. This engraving was found in Mexico, proving that the Jews came to America. Joseph commented to me on this last discovery as follows:

Joseph has a different interpretation of the enclosed clipping from Desert News showing the figure of a man with the Star of David as an earring. The article states the design on the head of the man is a ship, showing that they came to this country in ships. However, Joseph says this is wrong. The design is a bird not a ship and denotes that this person is from the tribe of Joseph. As evidence, Joseph cites Genesis 40:17, a scripture telling of the interpretation Joseph made of the dream of birds eating from the baskets on the head. Since then, the “bird” is the symbol of Joseph, and any Israeli would say the same without question.’

In June 1971, Joseph Ginat spoke at BYU, giving a lecture concerning the connection of the Book of Mormon and the discovery of the Cave of Lehi in Jerusalem. On July 15, Joseph Ginat and I met again with President Harold B Lee. Joseph explained his belief that the cave near Jerusalem was the same came where Nephi and his two brothers hid when they fled from Laban’s servants. He also described the wall drawings of men and ships. President Lee was very impressed. Joseph suggested two things must be done: first, that a monument should be placed on the Mount of Olives in commemoration of Orson Hyde dedicating the land of Israel for the return of the Jews; and second, that a monument should be placed at the entrance of the cave, dedicating it to the Book of Mormon and the sons of Lehi.

In time, Irene would be instrumental in fulfilling the first suggestion. However, a monument was never placed at Lehi’s cave due to the location of the cave being in the demilitarized zone, but she would get the opportunity to see the cave herself several times.

Joseph Ginat was privileged to meet with President Lee several times. On one of these occasion, he was given a special blessing. Irene describes these visits, and the blessing Joseph received at the hands of the prophet:

When Joseph Ginat first came to Salt Lake and made the connection between the Book of Mormon and the newly discovered cave in Israel, I told President Lee about him. He asked me to bring him to his office, which I did. After the first brief meeting, we were asked to come back when there was more time. At the second meeting President. Lee asked, “Joseph, what do you think about Joseph Smith being a prophet?” Without hesitation, Dr. Ginat replied, “of course he was a prophet look at what he accomplished! He had to be a prophet!” Then President. Lee asked, “then what you think about the Book of Mormon being true?”

Dr. Ginat turned to him and said, “President. Lee, there are no words in the Hebrew or English language to fully express how I know the Book of Mormon is true! “Then President Lee asked, “well then, what do you think about Jesus Christ being the Messiah?” Joseph hesitated and then replied, “that is a little more difficult, but I am working on it!” I was there during the two meetings with President Lee. Many interesting scriptures were discussed relating to the Book of Mormon and the Jews.

At the invitation to meet with President Lee for third meeting, I told Dr. Ginat that I felt he should go alone, just he and President Lee to meet together. He hesitated, and then asked me if I would meet him right after the meeting, which I did. When Dr. Ginat walked out of the meeting over two hours later, I could tell from the look on his face that he had had a special experience. We sat down and he told me all the things he had talked about, and then how President Lee had given him a special blessing. In the blessing he was told that the Lord had brought him here for a special purpose. He had been raised up as an instrument in the hands of the Lord to accomplish a great work for his own people and for the Lord. He was like Peter of old, called of God! This blessing is very sacred to Joseph, and he rarely speaks of it. When he came out of the meeting, the first thing he said to me was, “Irene, I will never be the same! This day is a memorable day which I shall never forget! I feel that today is the beginning of great things in my life!”

Some Mormons, especially at BYU, say, “Why is Joseph doing this? Why is he trying to promote Mormon – Israeli tours, trying to get Mormon professors to teach in Israel, trying to get a student exchange program with the universities if it isn’t for the money? He has to be connected with a travel agency and get a commission!”

It is a terrible accusation to make, and how far from the truth! It is important for us to make friends with the Jewish people so that they may come to know about the restored gospel, and in the Lord’s own due time he will be able to fulfill our great work with the Jewish people!

When Joseph Ginat finally returned to Israel, the revelations concerning the connection between the cave of Lehi and the Mormon Church continue to expand. One of the most astounding stories told by Joseph about his connection occurred when he traveled to the cave of Lehi to inspect it for himself. While visiting the site Joseph spoke to a wandering Arab Bedouin who was very familiar with the area around the cave and relayed his understanding of the ancestral home of a prophet he called Lehi. Irene writes in her journal:

Last May, I was invited by the state of Israel to be their guest for a two-week visit to Israel. I had the privilege of being the first person from Utah to be taken to the land of Lehi and to see the remnants of this cave. I was also taken by Joseph Ginat to the top of the hill and shown the ruins of an ancient city. He pointed to an area and said, now look over there. Only last week I came up here. In fact, I can’t stay away from this area. And while here I met a Bedouin Shepherd who asked, “Why do you come here? No one comes out here! What is here that you are looking for?” I told him that I was interested in the people that lived in this area and asked him if he knew anything about them. “Oh, yes, of course,” the Shepherd replied, and then his sheep started to go over to an area surrounded by a stone wall. Immediately he shouted to his son to get the sheep away from there; that the animals should not graze in that sacred place.

Do you know his name? Joseph asked, “of course,” the Bedouin replied, “his name was the prophet Lehi!”

In October, Irene arranged a meeting between President Lee and a group of Jewish government officials, which included Joseph Ginat. The relationship between the LDS church and the state of Israel was maturing quickly. Soon it would be formalized, and the state of Israel would permit the Church to enter Israel and establish an official branch of the Church! And that would be just the beginning. Soon the Church would be permitted to lease land in Israel – something absolutely forbidden by Israeli law for any Christian religion – and permit them not only to build the BYU Jerusalem center on the Mount of Olives but create a state park dedicated to a Mormon apostle: The Orson Hyde Memorial Gardens!

In 1972, Irene had the pleasure of taking several Israeli government officials, including the Consul General, on her standard tour of Temple Square, lunch at the University of Utah, then to the granite mountain genealogical storage vaults. They were very excited and talked freely. They said that it was unbelievable, overwhelming and that they had something in mind. It was not long after this visit that the Church was allowed to make copies of the names of all who had been killed in the Holocaust.

The main reason the Consul General came to Utah was to extend a special invitation to the First Presidency to come to Israel, and officially open communications between the state of Israel and the Mormon church! This privilege had never been given to any Christian church before, as there are laws in Israel forbidding any religion to proselyte or lease or own any property in Israel.

As hoped, on April 12, 1972, three Israeli government officials met with the First Presidency of the Church and extended a formal invitation for the Church to come to Israel. Irene was present when they met in the General Authority reception room with the President of the Church, Harold B. Lee, and Elders Eldon N. Tanner, Gordon B. Hinckley, and Mark E. Peterson.

In May, Irene had a dinner party for the Ginat’s as they were leaving for their home in Israel. Those who attended included President and Sister Harold B. Lee, Elder and Sister Gordon B. Hinckley, President Ernest Wilkinson, Dr. Truman and Ann Madsen, Sherman and Harriet Young, Brother and Sister Green, and Brent and Helen Goates. They discussed the progress in the relationship between the Mormon church in Israel, and showed the film Ancient America Speaks just released by BYU.
In a letter written to Irene dated June 8, 1972, the current Consul General of Israel, Benjamin Abileah, wrote to express his thanks for what both the Mormon church and the state of Utah had done for the Jewish people, and to express his optimism for the future.

It seemed as though all of Irene’s Jewish friends were leaving for Israel. The Ginat’s had already left and now Moshe Yegar, Irene’s first and perhaps most significant contact with Israel, was going home after living for six years in the United States. He wrote Irene a letter on July 13, 1972 to express his gratitude for her friendship.
All of this activity with Israel was to culminate in the state of Israel inviting President Harold B. Lee to come to Israel and be permitted to organize the first branch of the Church in the holy land. On September 12, 1972, Pres. Harold B. Lee, Gordon B. Hinckley, and their wives honored the invitation given them by the Consul General of Israel to visit their land. Upon their arrival they were met by Consul General Moshe Yegar and many other government officials that Irene had hosted when the Consul General had visited Salt Lake City.

On September 20, 1972, the first branch of the church was established by President Lee and Elder Hinckley in Israel with David Culbreth as branch president. Irene made this note in her journal about the event:

President Lee assured the minister of religion that our Church would not come to Israel and proselyte underhandedly, and that we would not interfere with them and their religion. He later told the LDS group that proselyting in Israel would be different than ever before, but the time would come when we would be able to do so.

Future events stemming from this momentous beginning included the organization of the Israel district in 1977, the dedication of the Orson Hyde Memorial Garden on the Mount of Olives in 1979, and the dedication of the BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies on Mount Scopus in 1989.

Because of Irene’s close relationship with Israeli diplomats, diplomats continued to use Irene as their contact, even after the Church had officially been recognized by Israel. This was criticized by many within the Church community as they felt that Israeli diplomats were not working through proper Church channels and complained that that Irene was the only person they would deal with. Irene found this humorous as did the Brethren.

The Most Influential Jewish Man in Modern Mormon History

Had I not made the decision to travel abroad and to tour with Fun for Less Tours, I would never have met the most interesting man I had ever known, Dr. Joseph Ginat. His friends called him Jose (Yo-see), a nickname for Joseph in Hebrew.

Jose was a very important person in the Israeli Government. Over the years he developed a personal relationship with Presidents Harold B. Lee, Ezra Taft Benson, Spencer W. Kimball, Howard W. Hunter, Gordon B. Hinkley and Thomas S. Monson. He gave personal guided tours of Israel to four of these Prophets. He heard President Harold B. Lee say at the Garden Tomb, “The Holy Ghost bears witness to me that this is the place from which Jesus resurrected.” (Ensign, Apr. 1972, p. 6 and Ensign, February 1974, p. 89.)
He was with President Lee again on the ground floor of the Antonio Fortress when President Lee asked a group of loud and boisterous French tourists to be quiet for “you are standing where the Roman soldiers mocked Jesus and placed a thorny crown atop his head.”

Jose was a Sabra, or a Jew born in Palestine before the Jewish State of Israel was created on May 14, 1948. A Sabra is the name for what we in America call the “Prickly Pear” fruit on the cactus plant. The fruit is sweet on the inside and very tough on the outside. In order for the State of Israel to be established, it required a durable and determined people. Jose’s grandfather, from the Tribe of Levi, came to the lands of Abraham when it was still called Palestine. For Jose’s grandfather it was enough to live in the Promised Land for eleven years and to die and to be buried in sacred soil. Three times a day the grandfather had prayed for his children and grandchildren to be able to live in a Jewish nation, that the Holy Temple might be built again in a New Jerusalem that would me once again become the capital of the Jewish people, and that the Messiah would come. Jose told me that from the time of the scattering of the Jews by the Romans in 70 A.D.(C.E.), Jews from around the world have prayed for a return of the Jewish people to Jerusalem, for the Holy Temple to be built atop of Mount Moriah, and for the coming of the Messiah.

The State of Israel was a dream and remained the hope of every believing Jewish heart around the world. In 1948 a twelve-year-old Jose Ginat was given a World War I rifle and told to defend the east entry of a small Jewish village north of Tel Aviv. Once again, with a rifle in hand, a thirty-one-year-old Jose would help in the liberation of the city of Jerusalem during the Six Day War in June 1967. He served as an aide-de-camp to the one-eyed General Moshe Dayan. One third of the prayers of his grandfather had now been completed. Even though the State of Israel was created in 1948, the Jewish People did not have access to the Western Wall in Jerusalem. After the Six Day War, Jerusalem was declared the capital city of the State of Israel.

Jose found out from President Ezra Taft Benson that Orson Hyde, a Jewish American and a Mormon, had dedicated the Holy Land for the return of the Jews thirty-seven years before Theodore Hertzl. Most scholars have, and still do, credit Theodore Hertzl as the Father of modern Zionism. Jose also discovered that Orson Hyde had traveled to Europe and spent months going from one synagogue to another in England, France, Germany, and Poland to convince the Jews to return to Jerusalem; this was in 1840. Jose recognized that Orson Hyde was the First Zionist and wanted Orson Hyde to be honored and recognized as such.

It was only due to the hard work and effort of Jose that the Orson Hyde Park exists today on the side of the Mount of Olives. It is also true that the Orson Hyde Memorial Garden located at Netanya College today, north of Tel Aviv, is due to the passionate commitment of Dr. Josef Ginat and the donations of many who have traveled with Fun For Less Tours.
Dr. Josef Ginat, as an instrument in the hands of the Lord, is the reason there is a BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies. As an Advisor for Arab Affairs five times to three different Prime Ministers of Israel, Dr. Ginat was able to obtain permission for the land to be leased to the Church through BYU.
The Temple in Jerusalem has not yet been dedicated nor have the prophesies of Zachariah concerning the Messiah standing on the Mount of Olives been fulfilled. Those of us who travel to the Holy Land at this time are “In-Betweeners.” We are blessed to be witnesses “in between” the establishment of the Jewish nation and the appearance of Jesus on the Mount of Olives, wherein he will say in answer to the question, “What are these wounds in thine hands and in thy feet? . . . I am he who was lifted up. I am Jesus that was crucified. I am the Son of God” (D&C 45:51-52).

You owe it to yourself to experience the Holy Land. You will feel the spirit abundantly when you walk upon the sacred ground where Jesus walked.

— John L. Lund has taught as adjunct faculty at major universities throughout Washington, Idaho, California and Utah. He is a consultant to both the business world and the private sector as a family counselor. He currently travels with Fun For Less Tours as an educator.

Khirbet Beit Lehi And The Book of Mormon: A Non-Archaeologist’s Rebuttal

This article is a rebuttal to the article published by Jeffrey R. Chadwick, the author of “Lehi’s House at Jerusalem and the Land of His Inheritance,” but specifically to “Khirbet Beit Lei and the Book of Mormon: An Archaeologist’s Evaluation.”

Unfortunately, both articles have been published by Brigham Young University.

Download the article which corrects the misinformation presented by Mr. Chadwick.