The Palestinian village of Taybeh, was visited by Jesus seeking
refuge shortly before his crucifixion. Economic and political pressures
have forced some 12,000 residents of Taybeh to emigrate to the Americas,
Europe and Australia. To ensure jobs for those who remain (only
1,300!), the churches and the Taybeh Municipal Council are working to
improve the local economy. Map.
Taybeh
In order to sell their olive oil, the created a ceramic workshop to
make dove-shaped peace lamps. A school to train stone-cutters. And
finally a microbrewery, the only one in the Middle East. Their beer is
even brewed under franchise in Germany. An annual beer festival in
October, backed by church and community organizations as well as by
diplomatic missions, promotes local products, culture and tourism. The
Taybeh Oktoberfest attracts thousands each year, including Christians,
Muslims, Jews and overseas visitors from as far away as Japan and
Brazil.
Taybeh
Jesus went to Taybeh, called Ephraim those times, after he raised
Lazarus to life and the Jewish leaders planned to put Jesus to death.
Taybeh hosts three different communities (Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic
(Latin) and Greek Catholic (Melkite)). When they celebrate Christmas,
they celebrate this on December 25 according to the Western calendar and
Easter according to the Eastern calendar.
Taybeh
The town was first created 4,500 years ago by the Canaanites. The
biblical name was Ophrah of the tribe of Benjamin. In 1187, Muslim
sultan Saladin changed the biblical name to Taybeh (meaning “good and
kind” in Arabic). The villagers regard St George as their patron. The
Greek Orthodox and Melkite churches are both named in his honor.
Taybeh
An excellent corporation between Palestinians, Christian church and
international diplomatic missions leads to welcome income for Taybeh.
