The Dead Sea

　　         Introduction          For five million years, the Dead Sea, separating Israel and Jordan, has been one of the most unique places in the world, both scenically and culturally. It is said that when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, they finally vanished on the hills along the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea.         The Dead Sea earned its name because the amount of water evaporating from it exceeds the freshwater flowing in, resulting in extremely high salt concentration — the salinity is four times that of ocean water. No plants or animals can survive here, but the high salt content also creates buoyancy several times greater than that of the ocean, allowing people to float effortlessly rather than sink. This offers a floating experience unlike any other sea.     The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth, lying nearly 400 meters below sea level. It stretches about 60 kilometers from north to south and roughly 17 kilometers from east to west. The mineral-rich seawater and extracted black mud of the Dead Sea are said to have miraculous effects on skin diseases. As a result, there are spas and accommodations along the shore that treat skin conditions. Facilities for bathing and towel rentals are also available, enabling visitors to enjoy the unique pleasure of floating on the Dead Sea.     The Dead Sea also serves as a border between Israel and Jordan. Since it has become an inland sea, and considering its rate of evaporation each year, there is a high risk that it may eventually disappear from the Earth forever. Therefore, during times of peace in the Middle East, rescue plans for the Dead Sea have been a shared priority for both Israel and Jordan. Keeping the Dead Sea alive has become a common wish for people around the world.   

　　   Jerusalem, State of Palestine