Ancient Shiloh Spring Revived with Tap Water for Holiday Visitors

The ancient Shiloh Spring, also known historically as 'Sailon,' has been revitalized in the past month after drying up two years ago. Located near the modern settlement of Shiloh in the Samaria hills, the spring is accessible by a short seven-minute drive on a gravel road suitable for all vehicles. The spring's pool, once used by residents of the nearby historic village of Kiryot, had dried up this year, disappointing many visitors.

To accommodate the influx of visitors during the Jewish intermediate holiday period, when many yeshiva students and others seek cool water sites, the owners of the nearby Nof HaMishkan farm, Avichai Swissa and Yishai Karat, filled the spring's pool with tap water. While not a natural spring or ritually pure for immersion, the water provides a refreshing experience for holiday travelers.

The farm, established by Swissa and later joined by Karat, is situated below Shiloh on land historically traversed by pilgrims heading to the ancient Tabernacle site. The farm also serves to protect the land from hostile takeovers. Visitors are advised to notify the Shiloh security command center before arriving and to enter the water at their own risk.

The article emphasizes safety precautions for visitors to the West Bank area, including mandatory coordination with military authorities, traveling in armed groups, and adherence to local signage and regulations. It also advises checking weather conditions and consulting relevant authorities before visiting natural sites. For further information about access and water entry, visitors can contact the Israel Nature and Parks Authority's information centers.

This renewal of the Shiloh Spring offers a unique opportunity for hikers and holidaymakers to enjoy a historic water site in the biblical landscape of Samaria during the holiday season.