Wednesday, February 22, 2012

A Heart to Heart Night in Tzefat; Birthplace of the Kabala


The Israeli city of Tzfat became an important center of Jewish life in the late 1400's after Jews were expelled from Spain during the Inquisition. From Hillel.org; The city is most closely associated with Jewish mysticism, the kabbalah, whose foremost exponent, Rabbi Isaac Luria, lived and taught there.  The "bible" of the kabbalists, the Zohar, was attributed to the second-century talmudist Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, who believed each word and line of the Torah had a higher meaning.

The women of Heart to Heart spent an afternoon and night in Tzefat; shopping along the stone streets of the Old City, making our own "Tzefat Candles," stopping to take pictures of the historic 16th Century Abuhav Synagogue, and finally dancing and singing together in a Spanish-influenced event space.


Mystics and artists are drawn to Tzefat, Israel

Making Colorful Candles in Tzefat, Israel


Inside the 16th Century Avuhav Synagogue - Said to Contain the Oldest Torah Scroll in the area
Tzefat, Israel

Intricate Carvings on Exterior Wall of Abuhav Synagogue
Tzefat, Israel

Doors of Abuhav Synagogue
Tzefat, Israel

Ancient Streets of Old Tzefat, Israel


On our last full night together, all 155 of us - four buses of invigorated women philanthropists - gathered for a Sephardic meal, singing, dancing and girlfriend togetherness.  So overwhelmingly inspired, we were already making plans to sign up for the next Heart to Heart Mission two years from now.


Heart to Heart Wrap-Up Party in Tzefat, Israel

Heart to Heart Wrap-Up Party in Tzefat, Israel

"You've Got A Friend"
Heart to Heart Wrap-Up Party in Tzefat, Israel


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