The recently-discovered Jerusalem mikveh features a unique water supply system designed to preserve every possible drop of rainwater collected in the arid Jerusalem environment. Water ran into the mikveh from three collecting basins (otzar) hewn out of the rock on the mikveh’s roof, following kashrut laws dictating that the water be carried in naturally and without human contact. In addition, the mikveh was paved with plaster, following the Jewish law that water from the mikveh not seep into the earth.
While the area was used for quarrying after the mikveh went out of use, Jerusalem archaeologists are working with the neighboring community and the Israel Antiquities Authority to preserve the site of this unique Second Temple period mikveh.
BAS Library Members: Immerse yourself in “the great mikveh debate”:
Reich, Ronny. “The Great Mikveh Debate.” Biblical Archaeology Review.
Eshel, Hanan. “The Pools of Sepphoris: Ritual Baths or Bathtubs?: They’re Not Ritual Baths.” Biblical Archaeology Review.
Meyers, Eric M. “The Pools of Sepphoris: Ritual Baths or Bathtubs?: Yes, They Are.” Biblical Archaeology Review.
Reich, Ronny. “They Are Ritual Baths.” Biblical Archaeology Review.
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