Martin H. van den Bergh

Israel stands among the leading nations in managing drought, sharing its innovative solutions with others facing similar challenges. The country has confronted not only conflict but also significant agricultural obstacles. Thanks to resourcefulness, Israel continues to thrive, producing ample crops even as it copes with dry spells—only recently broken. Farmers regularly gather nearby to sell an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, a testament to the ongoing bounty of the land and water supply.

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This abundance is seen by many as the fulfilment of Isaac's blessing to Jacob: וְיִֽתֶּן־לְךָ֙ הָאֱלֹהִ֔ים מִטַּל֙ הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וּמִשְׁמַנֵּ֖י הָאָ֑רֶץ וְרֹ֥ב דָּגָ֖ן וְתִירֹֽשׁ׃ — “May God give you of the dew of heaven and the fat of the earth, abundance of new grain and wine.” (Genesis 27:28). The Bechor Shor (Rabbi Joseph ben Isaac of Orleans, France, 12th Century) interpreted this promise as inheriting a land rich in grain and wine to support the people.

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Traveling throughout Israel—from the productive deserts of the Negev and the fertile central farmlands to the mountainous North renowned for its wines—offers clear evidence of the land’s blessings since the state was established in 1948. Nevertheless, these gifts shouldn’t be taken lightly; it remains essential to cherish and care for both the environment and our good fortune. The return of rain is celebrated, and there is hope for more to replenish rivers and especially Lake Kinneret.