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Shiloh – The First Sanctuary

Shiloh, nestled in the hills of Samaria, was the first spiritual center of Israel and home to the Mishkan (Tabernacle) for nearly 400 years. After the Israelites entered the land, Joshua established Shiloh as the place where the nation would gather and where the Ark of the Covenant rested (Joshua 18:1).

Here, Hannah prayed for a child, and her son, Samuel, was dedicated to serve before God—a moment that changed Jewish history. The site's location in the heart of biblical Israel made it the natural spiritual and political center before Jerusalem. Walking through the ruins of Shiloh today offers a powerful connection to the early days of Israelite worship and leadership, reminding us of the nation's first steps in the Promised Land.

Did you know?

The area around Shiloh is home to diverse native bee species that have played a crucial role in the region's agriculture since biblical times. These wild pollinators have been essential for the productivity of fig trees, grapevines, olive groves, and other crops that were staples of the ancient Israelite diet. Israel's native honeybee subspecies, Apis mellifera syriaca (also known as the Syrian or Palestine honey bee), is particularly well-adapted to the local climate and continues to thrive in the region. This bee has developed unique traits to cope with the hot, dry summers and local predators.