En Gedi
Barely one hundred feet from the desolate wilderness, the oasis of En Gedi supports lush green growth. Nearby, a spring of water runs from a rock, flowing down a cliff and creating the beautiful waterfall of En Gedi.
Surrounding En Gedi, the Judea Wilderness is a picture of dust and dryness. Caves are scattered amidst the rocks, and an occasional tree or bush struggles from the ground. About one mile away, the salty and still waters of the Dead Sea can be seen.
Looking at this panorama, one can hardly guess that a refreshing pool of water stands nearby. But in one of the wilderness' many wadis, the oasis of En Gedi provides a cool refuge from the wilderness. It has sustained jungle-like greenery for thousands of years.
David and his men traveled through this area as they hid from Saul. No doubt they enjoyed a moment of rest at En Gedi, taking long drinks from the pure water. For centuries, men and women have soothed their thirst, watered their animals, and enjoyed the peace of En Gedi during their wilderness travels.
For many biblical writers, the oasis of En Gedi provided a picture of the refreshment and encouragement found in God. Several psalmists expressed their need for God as a thirst for water amidst the wilderness of life.
