Considering the verse from Psalms 89:12, let’s explore Beit Tavor. It states, “The north and the south, Thou has created them; Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in Thy name.” This verse inspired the naming of this remarkable house. Beit Tavor stands as a testament to history and faith.
Conrad Schick, a German archaeologist, missionary, and architect, built Beit Tavor in 1882. He created it as a family home. Schick’s Pietistic Lutheran background deeply influenced him. Jesus held a central place in his life. At around 60 years old, he named his house Beit Tavor. It translates to House Tavor. Houses had names for identification then.
Beit means house in both Arabic and Hebrew. Schick wanted a name that resonated with both Jewish and Christian populations. He chose Tabor. Mount Tabor is where Jesus was transfigured. Moses and Elijah appeared. God called Jesus “My son.” Schick wanted Jesus to be central in his Jerusalem house.
Look closely at the facade of Beit Tavor. Palm leaves are carved there. You will also see the Greek letters Alpha and Omega. They symbolize the beginning and the end. Conrad Schick lived here until he died in 1901. Christians, Muslims, and Jews mourned his death.
In 1951, Swedish Protestants bought Beit Tavor. They established the Swedish Theological Institute here. This institute focuses on Land of Israel studies. Beit Tavor features a turret and thick stone walls. It includes a small church. There are also two libraries. A shaded interior courtyard offers tranquility.
Imagine the conversations within these walls. Scholars delving into theological studies. The echoes of prayers in the small church. The quiet rustling of pages in the libraries. Beit Tavor is more than just a building. It is a place of learning and reflection.
Consider the smaller house behind Beit Tavor. It was once rented as a “Summer house.” A person from Constantinople stayed there. He was friends with the Great Mufti of Jerusalem. The Mufti became a close friend of Conrad Schick. He had keys to all holy places. He could access them as he wished.
Today, Beit Tavor stands as a heritage site. It is recognized by the Council for Conservation of Heritage Sites in Israel. It is a place where Abraham’s children meet. It is a place for revelation. Perhaps even transfiguration.