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The Tomb of Hushai the Archite in Yirka

Druze tradition honours this modest white-domed tomb in the heart of the large Western Galilee mountain town of Yirka as that of Joseph, son of Jacob. Interestingly, Jewish pilgrims since the 18th century have identified it as the final resting place of Hushai the Archite, friend and courtier of King David.

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Galilee

Druze tradition honors this modest white-domed tomb in the heart of the large Western Galilee mountain town of Yirka as that of Joseph, son of Jacob. Interestingly, Jewish pilgrims since the 18th century have identified it as the final resting place of Hushai the Archite, friend and courtier of King David (2 Samuel 16:16; 1 Chron. 27:33).


Due to the frequency of both Jewish and Druze visitors to this town of some 12,300, when you ask how to get to the tomb, you’ll get friendly directions no matter which historic name you mention!


No one knows when the tomb was built; some believe it dates back to the seventh century CE. Also mysteries are when Hushai, from the southern tribe of Benjamin moved north, and how the tomb of Joseph came to have two locations (the other is in Nablus, the biblical Shechem). But it’s the tradition that counts, as you’ll sense when you enter the tiny, well-kept room in the center of which is the triangular tomb marker, covered with a scarlet cloth. 


For easiest access to the tomb, park your car in the town center, ask directions, and walk to it (approximately 700 yards). 

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