Olive presses and olive oil constitute an entire culture in Israel. This culture began in ancient biblical times when olive trees and oil were loved and revered. Israel is referred to in the book of Deuteronomy 8:8 as a land of olive oil and honey. Olive pits have been found dating back to 6,000 years ago, and dozens of ancient olive presses bear witness to the many olive groves and the part that the industry played in the lives of people long ago.
Olive oil was and still remains one of the most important agricultural products and was used for food, light, heat, medicinal treatments, and cosmetics, as well as cleaning and hygiene. Olive oil also played an important role in religious rituals, and was used for anointing priests and kings, for libations, and burials.
During biblical times, the entire season of the olive harvest signified a time of festivities. Today, olive festivals mark this tradition and the olive harvest is celebrated in the fall with special events and activities. Families make excursions to visit olive groves and to harvest olives together with the farmers, and to watch the olives being pressed. Tourists who are in the country during the harvest season can also join in the many interesting and colorful events that accompany the olive harvest. It’s just one more way to see the Bible come alive while you are in Israel!
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