Does it snow in Israel? As sure as snowflakes, it does.

Israel has recently experienced storms across the country, including one in the north that dropped nearly 14 inches (35 cm) of snow on Mt. Hermon. Canaan is not blessed with consistent winter snow but Mt. Hermon normally receives it every year. The melted runoff feeds sources of the Jordan river, which in turn feeds the Sea of Galilee, the country’s largest freshwater reservoir.

Photo of snow on Mount Hermon on Dec. 27, 2019. As the image indicates, this particular storm came during Hanukkah. (Photo credit: MT. HERMON MEDIA)

The biblical text mentions snow numerous times. Perhaps the most famous reference is the Lord’s statement in Isaiah 1:18, “though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” We may also recall David’s plea to “wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” (Ps 51:7)

Snow is an image of renewal and refreshment. Whether we see snow in person or in images like the one above, it is a reminder that the Lord purifies corrupt, stained ones who turn away from sinful behaviors and obey Him.