Here the southern side of Mt. Carmel near the coast can be seen. Mt. Carmel was most significant in ancient times as a barrier to traffic along the coastal plain. The 1,500-foot (450-m) high limestone mountain impeded armies and merchants traveling to the Jezreel Valley.
Mt. Carmel
Symbol of Beauty
Biblically, Mt. Carmel is referenced most often as a symbol of beauty and fertility. To be given the “splendor of Carmel” was to be blessed indeed (Isa 35:2). Solomon praised his beloved: “your head crowns you like Mount Carmel” (Song 7:5). But for Carmel to wither was a sign of devastating judgment (Nah 1:4).
Elijah's Contest
This is probably the best view of the area of Elijah’s contest from 1 Kings 18, assuming tradition is correct. The monastery of Muhraqa is at the top of the hill, but tradition places the contest slightly lower near a spring. The crowds of Israelites would have filled the spacious territory around to see whose God would win.
Elijah's Victory
The statue at the Carmelite monastery reflects the Lord’s victory over the prophets of Baal. Shortly after fire came down from heaven and consumed the sacrifice, altar and even the water, Elijah had the prophets of Baal slaughtered at the Brook Kishon—something which should have happened long before!
Passes of Mt. Carmel
Because Mt. Carmel sits astride the International Highway (sometimes called the Via Maris), three passes through the mountain became significant routes of travel in the ancient world. This photo shows the “Jokneam Pass” from the vantage point of Tell Jokneam. Because of the narrowness of the passes, they were relatively easy to guard.
Druze Community
Today two Druze villages are situated on Mount Carmel. The Druze religion is an offshoot of the Islam faith from about AD 1000. The Druze people speak Arabic, live also in the hills of Galilee and the Golan Heights, and have good relations with the Jews of Israel. They are often persecuted by Muslims.
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Related Websites
Mount Carmel (See the Holy Land) Gives easy-to-read information on the location, biblical significance, etc.
Mount Carmel (Tourist Israel) Summarizes the geographical setting.
Mount Carmel (Britannica) A brief encyclopedia article giving basic information and photos about the site.
Mount Carmel (New Advent) Offers the reader an extended history of the site (presented from the Catholic viewpoint).
The Carmel Caves (Jewish Virtual Library) This article discusses three caves on Carmel in detail, particularly including their archaeological finds, and concludes with information on the criterion they met to become UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Muhraka Hike (Hike Israel) For hikers, information about hiking in the Mount Carmel area, including detailed instruction and background info.
History of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (official site) A distinctly Catholic history of the area, concentrated particularly on the Catholic church that stands there.
The Nazarenes of Mount Carmel (Essene.com) Information about the Essene sect on Mt. Carmel, the Order of Nazorean Christians.
The Carmelites (Gems in Israel) Offers insight into the Carmelite community, an order of monks who originated on the slopes of Mt. Carmel. This group maintains the monastery situated on one peak of the mountain.