The Golan Heights: Biblical Roots and Modern-Day Conflicts

The Golan in the Torah: A Land of Historical Significance

The Golan Heights, referred to as "Bashan" in the Bible, was part of the inheritance of half the tribe of Manasseh that settled east of the Jordan. This fertile area was home to agricultural crops and livestock, especially cattle, as described by Moses: "for the land is good for livestock," (Numbers 32:4). The name "Bashan" often appears, as does "Og, king of Bashan," who was defeated by the Israelites during Moses' conquest. This region has always been strategically and historically significant, serving as a crucial axis for control and trade.

This area also served as a city of refuge as described in the Tosefta: "Joshua set aside three cities in the land of Canaan corresponding to three east of the Jordan, like two rows in a vineyard: Hebron in Judah corresponding to Bezer in the wilderness; Shechem in Mount Ephraim corresponding to Ramoth in Gilead; Kedesh in Galilee corresponding to Golan in Bashan" (Tosefta Makkot, Chapter 3, Halacha 2).

Jewish Settlements in the Golan

During the Mishnaic and Talmudic periods, the Golan and Bashan were home to numerous Jewish settlements, as evidenced by rabbinic sources and archaeological findings. The Golan, from the city of Susita in the south to the city of Paneas in the north, fell within the halachic boundaries of the Land of Israel, according to the Tosefta, the Talmud, and the Rehob inscription, obligating its Jewish residents to observe the commandments dependent on the land.

The central city for Jews in the Golan during the Roman period and thereafter was Neve (today within Syrian territory, near Israel's border in central Golan). This city is frequently mentioned in rabbinic sources.

In the seventh century, the Battle of Yarmouk took place in the Hauran and southern Golan, a decisive battle between the Byzantine and Islamic empires. This battle is deemed one of the pivotal battles in history, leading to Arab control over the region.

Following the large earthquake that hit the Land of Israel in the mid-eighth century and ongoing political instability, the Jewish population in the region gradually dwindled until the 10th century.

Modern-Day Golan Heights: An Israeli-Syrian Flashpoint

In the modern context, the Golan Heights is one of Israel's most beautiful, fertile, and strategic areas, yet it remains a longstanding point of contention between Israel and Syria. Until 1967, the Golan Heights was part of Syria, but during the Six-Day War, Israel captured it. Over the years, the Golan served as a Syrian position for attacks on Israeli communities in the Hula Valley and Upper Galilee, making control of it a critical security challenge.

In 1981, the Israeli Knesset passed the Golan Heights Law, applying Israeli sovereignty to the area, a move not internationally recognized until the Trump Administration in 2019 formally recognized the Golan Heights as part of Israel. Syria views the Golan Heights as occupied territory and demands its return as part of any potential peace deal.

The geographical location of the Golan Heights, atop the mountain ridge overlooking the Hula Valley, makes it a prime strategic asset. Controlling the Golan provides a significant military advantage, especially in defending the Galilee. During the Yom Kippur War in 1973, Syria attempted to reclaim the Golan Heights but failed despite initial surprise.

The Jewish connection to the Golan Heights has endured through the ages. In the Second Temple period, the Golan hosted thriving Jewish communities, including a Jewish settlement named "Gamla," which became a symbol of heroic resistance during the Great Revolt against the Romans. The remains of ancient synagogues found in the area attest to a vibrant Jewish presence over long periods.

The Golan's fertile landscape has always attracted diverse populations, and today the region is renowned for its vineyards, wineries, orchards, and tourist attractions such as Mount Hermon and its flowing streams. This natural and historical wealth integrates values of preservation, agriculture, and security.

The Israeli-Syrian conflict over the Golan Heights raises significant questions about morality, sovereignty, and human rights. Syria insists on the return of the territory, whereas Israel emphasizes the security and historical imperatives of maintaining control.

From this perspective, the Golan Heights is much more than a geographical area; it represents a unique combination of Jewish historical heritage with modern challenges of security, agriculture, and tourism. The conflict over it reflects the complexity of Middle Eastern politics, yet also highlights its strategic and cultural significance throughout history. Future decisions regarding the Golan Heights will impact not only Israel and Syria but also regional stability and the historical connection of the Jewish people to their land.