Exploring Tel Dan: A Refreshing Family Adventure

The Tel Dan Nature Reserve is famously known for its flowing waters, but the area also holds significant historical importance from biblical times.

Historical Background

The city of Dan first appears in the days of Abraham, who pursued his nephew Lot when he was taken captive in the battle of the four kings against the five near the Dead Sea, chasing them all the way north to Dan.

During the conquest of the land by the tribes, the Book of Judges mentions the tribe of Dan searching for a place to settle, as they couldn't conquer their allotted region: “They called the city Dan after their father, who was born to Israel; but the city was originally called Laish,” it says.

In King David's time, Dan figures as the northern settlement in a census he performed. Following the kingdom's division during King Rehoboam's days, Jeroboam, the king of Israel, established a northern temple in Dan, an alternative to Solomon's temple. This temple lasted less than two centuries and was destroyed by Tiglath-Pileser, King of Assyria, during the exile of the northern tribes.

In 2 Chronicles, Hezekiah, king of Judah, reinstated the Passover for all the people, including those living in areas conquered by the Assyrians. It was proclaimed "from Beersheba to Dan" to come to Jerusalem for the feast.

After its conquest by the Assyrians, Dan never regained its former glory. Some 500 years later, the city of Panias rose to prominence in the area.

In Arabic, the site is known as "Tel el Qadi" – the Hill of the Judge (translating the name Dan).

A Message from King David

The reserve offers three main trails: :

The longest leads to Dan's remnants, including the city gate where judges sat, a possible location of the king’s throne, and rooms inside the gate complex. The city's gate is especially significant as an inscription referring to the House of David was found here, marking the earliest mention of David outside the Bible.

From the gate, ascend to the cultic area ruins and view the reconstructed altar, illustrating what once was. You'll also find a Syrian tractor placed here after the Six-Day War, symbolizing the fight over water sources and Syria's pre-war attempts to divert Jordan's waters.

After descending, it's a good idea to continue to the Canaanite-era city gate, estimated to be 5,000 years old, known as "Abraham's Gate." Built with mud bricks, it demonstrates early expertise in construction techniques and engineering. A canopy and reinforcements now protect the gate.

'Abraham's Gate'

No Bears, No Forest

The second trail winds through Dan's streams. Alongside enjoying the rushing waters, stop by "Pooh Bear's" hollow tree, so named because someone thought it resembled a bear. Kids love hiding inside, and walking here feels like a wild adventure. The path is partially accessible, but strollers might need lifting in some sections.

The Icy Pool

The third path is fully accessible. It's a short trail leading directly to the large, shallow wading pool that is the main attraction for kids at the reserve. Despite its shallow depth, it’s essential to keep a close eye on the children. The water, from snowmelt, is very cold.

A Few More Details...

Entry fee is required.

How to get there? Use Waze and search for "Tel Dan Nature Reserve."

Suggested duration? Around half a day at a leisurely pace.

Picnic areas? Several tables near the entrance.

Osher Nadivi is a certified tour guide. For questions and comments: editor.nelech@gmail.com