Israel – 2012 – 2 Sheqel – Sea of Galilee (PROOF)

Description

Face Value Metal Fineness Weight Diameter Quality Mintage
2 NIS Silver .925 28.28 gr 38.7mm PROOF 2’800

Situated at 212m below sea level in the Jordan Rift Valley, the Sea of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake in the world. It receives its waters primarily from the Jordan River, which flows through it from its northern to southern shores and further southward as far as the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth. Rising above the Sea of Galilee to the northeast are the Golan Heights and to the northwest, the Hills of the Galilee. Its waters are pumped into the Israel National Water Carrier and provide fresh water for much of the country, even enabling the Negev desert to bloom and flourish.
The Sea of Galilee is significant in both Judaism and Christianity. In the Bible, it is referred to several times as a prominent boundary mark. The City of Tiberias, on its western shore, was an important city in the Mishnaic period, 2nd century. Famous Tannaim, including Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zakai and Rabbi Akiva were active in the city and were buried there. Moses Maimonides, the Rambam, was brought to Tiberias for burial.
According to the New Testament, Jesus lived in the Galilee and is believed to have performed famous miracles there, including the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes, Calming the Storm and
Walking on the Water. Christian Pilgrims visit the Synagogue at Capernaum, where Jesus preached, the Mt. of Beatitudes, where he gave the Sermon on the Mount, and the point where the Jordan flows south, where John the Baptist is believed to have baptized early Christians. In 2011 a “Jesus Trail” was inaugurated, totaling 40 miles (64 km) of holy places encircling the Sea.
Israel’s first Kibbutzim were established on the shores of the Sea of Galilee in the early 20th century and they continue to flourish and prosper today.
The Sea of Galilee, called “Kinneret”, lyre or harp, in Hebrew, due to its shape, is also a popular vacation, sports and health resort with its thermal springs.
The magnificent scenic area is also a magnet for artists.