Land of Israel facts for kids
The Land of Israel (which is called Eretz Yisrael in Hebrew) is a historic area in the Middle East. It's also known by other names like Canaan, Palestine, or the Holy Land. This important region is found in the southern part of a larger area called the Levant.
The name "Land of Israel" comes from ancient religious texts like the Torah and the Bible. Before the powerful Kingdom of Israel was formed, this region was often called the Land of Canaan. This was because the Canaanite people lived there. In the Bible, this land is often described as the 'Promised Land' or the 'Holy Land' because of its special religious meaning.
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What is the Land of Israel?
The Land of Israel is a region with a very long and rich history. It's located where the continents of Africa, Asia, and Europe meet. This made it a crossroads for many ancient civilizations and trade routes. The land has a varied landscape, from coastal plains to mountains and deserts.
Why is it called the "Holy Land"?
Many people call this area the "Holy Land" because it's very important to three major religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Many significant events described in the Bible and other religious texts happened here. For example, it's believed to be where many prophets lived and taught, and where important religious sites are located.
Ancient History of the Land
For thousands of years, many different groups of people have lived in the Land of Israel.
The Canaanites
Before the Israelites, the Canaanites were the main people living in this land. They were a group of ancient people who lived in cities and had their own cultures and beliefs. They were known for their trade and farming.
The Kingdom of Israel
According to the Bible, the Israelites settled in the land and later formed a united kingdom. This was a powerful kingdom led by famous kings like King David and King Solomon. After some time, this united kingdom split into two smaller kingdoms: the Kingdom of Israel in the north and the Kingdom of Judah in the south.
Modern Significance
Today, the Land of Israel is home to the modern country of Israel and the State of Palestine. It continues to be a place of great importance for people around the world, especially for those who follow Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. People visit from all over to see its historical sites and religious landmarks.
Images for kids
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The Valley of Elah, near Adullam
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A verdant hill near Moshav Tzafririm
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Sunrise over the Elah Valley
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1916 map of the Fertile Crescent by James Henry Breasted. The names used for the land are "Canaan" "Judah" "Palestine" and "Israel"
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Map of Eretz Israel in 1695 Amsterdam Haggada by Abraham Bar-Jacob.
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Valley of Sur
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This 1920 stamp, issued by the Egyptian Expeditionary Force, set a precedent for the wording of subsequent Mandate stamps.
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See also
In Spanish: Tierra de Israel para niños
