Valley of Ela or The Valley of the Terebith is one of the most beautiful parts of Israel. And also it is one of the places where the most important Biblical events once took place.
Tel Socoh is a place where the Philistin Army stood ready to enter into the fight against King Saul Army.
The Biblical story of David and Goliath is a great lesson of courage, faith, and overcoming what seems impossible. The nation of Israel was called to fight the Philistine army that had gathered for war at Socoh. A Philistine giant named Goliath came to the front of the Philistine battle line and mocked the Israelites and their God. Goliath called to them to fight but King Saul and the Israelite were scared and did nothing.
David heard Goliath mocking Israel and their God and volunteered to fight Goliath. He decided not to wear any armor. He just carried his sling and gathered five smooth stones. David put a rock in his sling and swung one of the rocks at Goliath's head. The rock sank into the giant's forehead and he fell. David then picked up Goliath's sword and killed Goliath. The Philistines turned and ran away, leaving the battle filed to the victorious Israelis.
Today nothing reminds at Tel Socoh of those battle. The hill, hiding the remnant of ancient city, is covered by carpets of beautiful blue, red and yellow flowers and looks like a real Paradise. And only the stones similar to those used by David to kill Goliath, still bring back Biblical memories.
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