Set in one of the most beautiful parts of Palestine, the historic city of Beit Sahour lies to the east of Bethlehem and south-east of Jerusalem. The origins of the name Beit Sahour (the house of vigilance) reputedly stems from the Canaanite words "Beit" meaning place, and "Sahour" meaning night watch, which reflected the importance of the area for shepherds. The land provided their flocks with good grazing during the day and safety in the numerous caves at night.
The area is full of historical and biblical sites of significance. Ruins from Roman, Byzantine, Islamic and Crusader times can be found throughout the area. In addition, there are many sites of special importance to followers of the three monotheistic religions(Christians, Muslims and Jews), to whom this land is sacred.
Beit Sahour has approximately 14,500 residents and is a town with industries such as chemicals, stone work and textiles. The inhabitants have developed high quality artisan craftsmanship, mainly in mother-of-pearl, olive wood, and embroidery. Tourism and its related enterprises, including travel agencies, touring, hotels, restaurants, and arts and crafts play a crucial role in the economy, and the town has a variety of restaurants, cafes and hotels to offer its citizens and tourists alike.
 Mother of Pearl crafts |
 Olive Wood Statue |
Today, however, economy in Palestine in general, and Beit Sahour in particular is in decline , and the jobless rates are increasing. Due to the current political turmoil, and checkpoints that prevent much movement between Palestinian controlled areas let alone to and from Israel, tourism is facing a crisis, construction workers can't get to their job sites, farmers can't harvest their crops,and the trade of handicrafts is virtually non-existent. Many local businesses are family run; therefore entire families are left without work.
Despite the devastated economy, Beit Sahour people continue to be as generous as ever, fearful but hopeful, clinging to their values and traditions, showing great hospitality, fun to be around , holding on to the strong family ties, and as always a model of cooperation and brotherhood between Christians and Muslims.(Not necessarily the case in other parts of the country).
Resources:Beit Sahour Municipality,Family and friends in Beit Sahour.
Comments (16)
What a beautiful place and I love the arts and crafts. That olive wood Madonna is lovely. I'm sorry to hear about the economic situation for them.
Posted by Annie | March 3, 2009 9:02 AM
Posted on March 3, 2009 09:02
I am enjoying reading about your home.
Posted by Marcia | March 3, 2009 11:34 AM
Posted on March 3, 2009 11:34
It is so interesting to read about your hometown. The handcraftsmanship is exquisite. I have always enjoyed crafts made of olive wood and mother of pearl. I have a question about the second photo, which may be very obvious but here it goes: is that a Catholic (or Orthodox) church next to a mosque?
Posted by Maria I. | March 3, 2009 1:07 PM
Posted on March 3, 2009 13:07
Maria, the church in the photo is Greek Orthodox Church in Beit Sahour,which is the denomination of most Christians in Beit Sahour.
There are two Catholic Churches in Beit Sahour also, one Roman and one Greek Catholic.
Posted by candi | March 3, 2009 1:25 PM
Posted on March 3, 2009 13:25
Thanks Candi. This is really interesting. Your photos are great!
Posted by sheri | March 3, 2009 7:48 PM
Posted on March 3, 2009 19:48
Thanks Sheri, I can't take credit for the photos, I just got them from the internet.
Posted by candi | March 3, 2009 8:47 PM
Posted on March 3, 2009 20:47
Hi Candi, great post! I found learning more about Beit Sahour very interesting. I'm sorry to hear about the economic decline. It is so beautiful that even during these very difficult times, the people are so generous. I hope that the situation can improve for everyone.
The mother of pearl and wood statue are very beautiful. I don't think that I've seen mother of pearl crafts before. They look really nice.
Thank you so much for sharing more about your hometown Candi. Have a great evening!
Posted by Kathy (Trekcapri) | March 3, 2009 8:55 PM
Posted on March 3, 2009 20:55
I didn't know that there was such a thing as a Greek Catholic church! That is different from Greek Orthodox, right?
Posted by Annie | March 4, 2009 8:09 AM
Posted on March 4, 2009 08:09
Sounds and looks like a wonderful town.
Posted by Chiocciola | March 4, 2009 9:58 AM
Posted on March 4, 2009 09:58
Annie, it is a different denomination from Greek Orthodox, and very similar(I am not even sure what differences exist) to Roman Catholic. I believe it comes from areas like Ukraine and Slovakia.
Posted by candi | March 4, 2009 12:37 PM
Posted on March 4, 2009 12:37
I *think* Greek Catholic is also known as Eastern Catholic or Byzantine Catholic. I used to go to a church that had both rites, the Greek and the Roman. It took me a while to get used to their Mass, especially because it was very long, 90 minutes looong.
Posted by Maria I. | March 4, 2009 5:33 PM
Posted on March 4, 2009 17:33
Maria, I believe you are right.
Posted by candi | March 4, 2009 10:21 PM
Posted on March 4, 2009 22:21
Interesting. Thanks Candi and Maria.
Posted by Annie | March 5, 2009 8:06 AM
Posted on March 5, 2009 08:06
I am enjoying learning more about Beit Sahour. Beautiful photos. It is sad to hear about the economic decline but hopeful that there is still cooperation and brotherhood in the area.
Posted by girasoli | March 7, 2009 4:14 PM
Posted on March 7, 2009 16:14
Another great post. Reading backwards so now I know where it's located. I was in the area over 20 years ago but when we returned to Israel two years ago, our guide said we shouldn't (visit Bethlehem) but he could arrange for Chris (my husband to go). When we return in December, I'm hoping things are better and we can all go, but at least, we'll send Chris this time.
I have to say it's enlightening getting your perspective. Again, thank you.
Posted by Kim | March 9, 2009 5:05 AM
Posted on March 9, 2009 05:05
I hope things will be better too. Bethlehem is a nice town to visit.
Posted by candi | March 9, 2009 3:31 PM
Posted on March 9, 2009 15:31