Pinsteps. The Sacred Beit Jamal Monastery in Israel and the Spiritual Legacy of Saint Bruno
Places to visit in in בית שמש Languages: en

The Beit Jamal Monastery in Israel is a particularly interesting religious institution. It houses nuns from the Order of Bethlehem, also known by three distinct names. The first name, Order of Bethlehem, is in commemoration of the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The second, Order of the Assumption of the Holy Mary, was influenced by Pope Pius XII, who on November 1, 1950, announced the Assumption of Mary, a Christian belief that Mary ascended to heaven with her body. In Christian theology, this proclamation equated Mary's power to that of Jesus Christ, who also ascended bodily to heaven without dying in the land of Israel. The third name of the order, named after Saint Bruno, is also significant. When the order was founded, the nuns decided to affiliate themselves with the Carthusian order founded by Saint Bruno, which greatly influences their monastic lifestyle.

The nuns in Beit Jamal mainly come from France and Belgium, and they communicate in French. They engage in prayer, contemplation, and minimize talking. Currently, 25 nuns reside in the monastery; some have been there since its establishment in 1985, while others joined later. Each nun has a specific role in the daily life and operation of the monastery. For their livelihood, they produce and sell beautifully designed ceramic items, various jams, and juices to tourists and visitors.

Interestingly, the monastery contains a Jewish chapel, devoid of Christian symbols. This room, equipped with a prayer podium, a seven-branched menorah, and an open Torah scroll, is intended to foster good relations between Christians and Jews.

As for Saint Bruno, he was born in Cologne, Germany, around 1030. His early life was marked by intellectual pursuits; he was educated in Paris and later returned to Cologne, where he was ordained a priest and became a prominent teacher. His life took a turn when his friend, Bishop Hugh of Grenoble, showed him a secluded location in the mountains, which inspired Bruno to establish the Carthusian Order in 1084. The order was dedicated to a life of solitude, prayer, and manual labor, and it gained immediate acclaim for its rigorous asceticism. Bruno never saw his order expand significantly during his lifetime but laid the foundations for what would become a lasting spiritual path. He died in 1101 in the wilderness of Calabria, where he had established another hermitage. His teachings and lifestyle continue to influence monastic traditions, including those observed in Beit Jamal.


Pictures uploaded by @Evgeny Praisman
Guides
List of trips including this place
Evgeny Praisman
Monasteries and Wineries of the Judean Hills: A Road Trip of Oct 5, 2023

Embark on a captivating road journey through the monasteries and wineries of the Judean Hills, starting with the unique Beit Jamal Monastery. Home to the Church of St. Stephen, widely considered the most beautiful and unusual church in the Holy Land, sets the tone for an enriching adventure. Next, go to Mony Winery, an exceptional establishment where Christians and Jews collaborate to produce kosher wine. This interfaith initiative adds depth to the region's viticultural practices.

As you leave Mony, ascend to the panoramic views of the Sorek Valley, a landscape that breathes life into the Biblical tales of Samson and Delilah. Take a moment to soak in the scenery and reflect on the ancient narratives that unfolded in these hills. Finally, end your journey at Flam Winery, a highly professional and well-promoted establishment. Though it leans a bit towards commercialization, it's a fitting conclusion to a day of spiritual and sensory exploration in the Judean Hills.

Discover routes near this place here!
Evgeny Praisman (author)
Здравствуйте! Меня зовут Женя, я путешественник и гид. Здесь я публикую свои путешествия и путеводители по городам и странам. Вы можете воспользоваться ими, как готовыми путеводителями, так и ресурсом для создания собственных маршрутов. Некоторые находятся в свободном доступе, некоторые открываются по промо коду. Чтобы получить промо код напишите мне сообщение на телефон +972 537907561 или на epraisman@gmail.com и я с радостью вам помогу! Иначе, зачем я всё это делаю?
Don't waste time planning
Use detailed routes created by your friends and professionals. Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience
OK
Share
Send
Send