Parashat Bo presents the first mitzvah which was given to Israel as a nation, Kiddush HaChodesh. In ancient times, when the Sanhedrin sanctified the new months, they would light bonfires on specific mountain tops to announce the new month (Mishna Rosh Hashana 2:2-4). In this manner, even without modern communication techniques, it was possible to inform Jewish communities not only in Israel but in the diaspora as well, that the new month had begun. o
The third bonfire station was known as Grofina (ibid., Mishna 4). One of the suggestions for the location of Grofina is Kochav HaYarden, which rises above the northern end of the Jordan Valley. On the slope of the mountain, there are remains of the ancient Jewish community of Kochav, which existed during the period of the Mishna and Talmud. o
On the heights of Kochav HaYarden, are the remains of a Crusader fortress named Belvoir (the French translates as “Beautiful View”). Indeed, there is a beautiful view of the southern part of the Kineret and the northern portion of the Jordan Valley. Clearly, the strategic view from Kochav HaYarden is the reason Chazal (our Sages) and the Crusaders chose this hill. o
While visiting the remains of the fortress, one can see that the Crusaders used stones from the remains of the Jewish community Kochav. In particular, a stone engraved with a menorah was used as part of the doorpost of the western gate of the fortress. o
