'Biyahe ni Drew:' Three interesting facts about Israel
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Did you know that the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea are not really seas? To know why and other interesting facts about Israel, read on:
When you hear the word Israel, these are the first few things that come to mind: the birthplace of Jesus, Holy Land, and the name of Jacob (son of Isaac).
But aside from religion and customs, there are some interesting facts about this country that continue to amaze tourists and locals alike. So, if you want to learn something new today, here are three fascinating things about Israel that will leave you amazed.
1. St. Peter's Church faces the west
It was said that the first Christian faced east when praying because the sun rises in the same direction. Hence, churches were built facing east so that the altar is placed on its end, calling the placement the “liturgical east.”
However, unlike most churches, the St. Peter's Church in Jaffa faces the opposite direction because the terrain surrounding the basilica did not allow for it to happen. Also, the Franciscans who built it wanted to commemorate the visit and miracle of St. Peter in Jaffa as stated in the Acts 9:40.
Since it was dedicated to St. Peter, it also faces the west because it signals the direction as to where the first Pope's remains were buried -- Rome.
2. A collective community in Israel exists with equal pay
Kibbutz is a collective community in Israel that runs a collective enterprise with a partly free-market system. Each member of the community practices active democracy and shares everything with other members as a collective.
According to Drew, the president of the system can be the highest-ranking official today but by the next year, he could be a gardener tending to a hotel. What's important is they get equal pay no matter what rank they are currently holding.
Adding, “It's such an interesting concept. Lahat nagtutulungan, lahat may natututunan, and at the same time it's profit-sharing.”
3. The Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee are lakes
Yep, you read that right. The Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee are not real seas but lakes. They are only called that way because of tradition.
The Sea of Galilee is considered the largest freshwater lake in the world while the Dead Sea is nine times as salty as the ocean, making it impossible for life to exist in it.
Watch the full Israel episode of Biyahe ni Drew below:
WATCH: A guide to Israel's holiest sites
WATCH: Jaffa Flea Market, the souvenir mecca of Israel
