Israel

Culture

Israel is host to a diverse culture, being the home of the three largest monotheistic religions of the world, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It is important to recognize that you are a guest in a foreign land and to respect the differing cultures of the people of the land. Being respectful and kind is always the best policy when a visitor in someone else's home. One thing to keep in mind is that there is a non-conversion law in Israel. This means it is illegal to actively proselytize in Israel. You may carry on a conversation about your belief if asked, however, you may not stand on the street corner and preach. This would be a violation of law and would have legal consequences.

Food

The Mediterranean diet is famous worldwide for its health benefits. You will have the opportunity to enjoy many wonderful local dishes that you will love and remember for a lifetime, however, like in many foreign nations, it is advisable not to engage in eating from questionable street vendors. All of the meals sanctioned by Triumph In Truth will be safe, KOSHER restaurants. When eating on your own, please use discretion and be careful not to be too risky. It could result in digestive discomfort or in breaking of the dietary instructions of the Bible.

The Western Wall

If you desire to pray at the Western Wall, please remember that this is a Jewish "holy" sight and show the utmost respect and reverence. You will be asked to wear a head covering if you are not wearing a hat already. Also, the men and women have separate sections for prayer. This in not the time to challenge their traditions or show disdain for the separation. This is true for all the traditions of the people of the Land. Remember you are a guest in someone else's home.

Clothing

It is important to wear weather appropriate clothing in Israel. This varies depending on what time of year you will be visiting. In the Fall, the weather is cool/cold in the morning but warms up by noon and can even become hot in the afternoon. Layering is recommended for maximum comfort. Please, always wear modest clothing that covers your body. Exposing yourself, as is done in a modern, cosmopolitan culture is NOT accepted by many of the cultures in Israel and will be met with disdain, especially when visiting the "holy" sights.

Shabbat

We will be observing the seventh-day Shabbat while in Israel. There will be no activities scheduled that would require commerce or the services of others. We will have a Shabbat Gathering scheduled either in the hotel or possibly outside if the weather permits. Be advised that the elevators in most hotels will be on Shabbat mode, which means they will go all the way to the top and stop at every floor on the way down. This is because many Jews believe that pushing the elevator button constitutes work and is prohibited on Shabbat. You may use the stairs if you prefer. The hotel will provide breakfast that they prepared on Friday for Shabbat. Shabbat begins at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday.