Ancient Spring Ein Sharkarak Serves as Historic Ritual Bath Near Tzippori

Ein Sharkarak is a deep, crystal-clear spring located near the Alonim junction in northern Israel, renowned for serving as a ritual bath (mikveh). Some identify it as the mikveh used by Rabbi Judah the Prince, who lived nearby in Tzippori and was buried in Beit She'arim. Visitors can reach the site by turning off Highway 75 at Alonim junction onto road 7513, parking near a small cypress grove about half a kilometer past a shopping center, and walking two minutes to the ancient stone structure housing the spring.

The mikveh is accessible free of charge at all hours throughout the year, offering cold, pristine water for immersion. Historically, Rabbi Shimon Natan Neta Biderman, the Lelov Rebbe, frequently traveled between Safed and central Israel and would immerse in Ein Sharkarak on his return. Due to the spring’s depth and steep access, a sturdy stainless steel ladder was installed by the Lelov Rebbe’s order to ensure safe entry and exit; this ladder remains in place today. The Lelov Rebbe passed away suddenly on Yom Kippur night in 2009.

The spring is featured in the upcoming edition of "Rare Holy and Watery Places in Israel" (Feldheim/Yafe Nof 2022). The article includes a caution that visitors undertake the journey at their own risk, emphasizing safety, coordination with authorities in the West Bank area, and adherence to local regulations. It also encourages group travel with proper precautions and provides contact information for the Israel Nature and Parks Authority for coordination and safety inquiries.

The story was shared by Rabbi Baruch Lustig, a close associate of the Lelov Rebbe, who helped bring this unique mikveh’s significance to light. The article highlights the spiritual and historical importance of Ein Sharkarak as a rare natural mikveh linked to revered Jewish figures and traditions.