Weather of Arabia - In the lands of Palestine, time is revealed in the details, and the roots of history flow into every inch of these ancient lands. It is a land of hope, where the stories of the ancestors mix with the stories of the grandchildren, and the past with the present in a distinctive way that embodies the truth of this land and its ancient history, and in this time full of experiences and lessons. Today, we review a story of deep Palestinian roots and heritage. It is a story about our roots in this generous land, where olive flowers bloom as an integral part of our heritage and identity.
Olives in Palestine are not just a source of aromatic oil and delicious salted olives. Rather, they are part of Palestinian culture and philosophy. Appreciation of our olives represents a combination of dedication, care and respect. Cultivation and harvesting of olives embody generational continuity and pride in our agricultural heritage.
In late October and early November of each year, the olive harvest seasons turn into a social event in which all family members participate, whether they are adults longing for their special time with this ancient tree that has lived with them for generations, or children discovering the splendor of the land and its fruits, while wandering among the olive branches. Not only that, but local, civil and official institutions, in addition to ministries, institutes, universities and schools, are witnessing their active participation in the events and activities of this distinguished annual holiday.
Every year, the Palestinian people eagerly await the arrival of the olive season, and the season is preceded by many conversations in which everyone participates about its nature this year. They discuss whether the season was good or bad, and whether it was affected by high heat or not, and they also talk about taking care of the olive trees, and who plowed the land better, and the regions’ reports vary between advantages and disadvantages in their crop, and they also discuss what the price of oil will be and what It will affect them, and they will also be preoccupied with the issue of the amount of oil that will be sent to their children in different countries. These conversations occupy the minds of the residents, and make them talk about the olive season and its cultivation with love and happiness.
The olive tree is also closely linked to the Palestinian people, and in addition to its religious and sacred dimensions, it has become a symbol of man’s adherence and steadfastness to his land. As it also represents a symbol of the Palestinian cause and the people’s right to their land, and in addition to that, it plays an important role in uniting and bringing the people together and embodying their ancient history.
The olive, which is considered one of the oldest residents of the soil of Palestine, has a long history that exceeds the barrier of five thousand years , and remains a symbol of national identity and the memory of the people and places. In Palestine there are many perennial olive trees, each branch of which expresses the identity of the country and the history of the ancestors who used to consider it a symbol. Regardless of their country, in the Palestinian city of Bethlehem lies a witness to the depth of history and time, as the oldest and largest olive tree lives in Palestine .
The age of this tree is estimated at about five thousand years , and its shadows extend to cover an area of more than 250 square meters , and its height reaches about 13 meters , while its roots extend more than 25 meters below the surface of the earth. This data is taken from estimates by the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture.
The ownership of this great tree goes back to the Abu Ali family in the Wadi Juwiza area , which extends in the village of Al-Walaja, Bethlehem, southwest of occupied Jerusalem. This tree was distinguished by several titles, including:
This tree bears witness to history and cultural heritage, and remains tall throughout the ages, bearing witness to its great influence on Christian and Islamic society alike.
Speaking to Middle East Eye , 46-year-old Salah Abu Ali, who serves as the keeper of this ancient tree, explained that although he spends most of his time under the shade of this magnificent tree, he still respects it and feels awe of it. And he said:
“The beauty and magnitude of this tree is truly unique. It dazzles the mind, and is considered the most beautiful tree in Palestine.”
Despite the strength of spirit and adherence to olives, Palestinians find themselves facing great challenges. These challenges include political, economic, and environmental challenges that affect our fertile lands. But in these ancient places, where people deal with challenges with a spirit of resilience and defiance, olives remain a symbol of hope. They remind us Always that our roots in these lands are strong and deep, and that we are ready to face the future with determination, as Abu Ali, the guard of the oldest olive tree in Palestine , said, who is strongly determined to entrust himself with the task of guarding this tree, which he considers a symbol of Palestinian steadfastness.
“If this tree continues to stand, our steadfastness will continue... This tree represents an integral part of our identity and our resistance against the Israeli occupation.”
Also know:
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When will the “olive winter” be this year? Is it time to harvest?
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