Beth David Synagogue will hold the virtual lecture “Connecting Archeology and the Bible” on Thursday, August 6, from 2-3 pm. Eitan Morell will be the speaker in this second lecture in memory of his father, Samuel (Shmuel) Morell, who passed away in April. Members of Beth David will receive the Zoom meeting information from Rabbi Zev Silber, but all are welcome to attend. Those not on the Beth David listserv can contact Morell for the information at eitan.morell@gmail.com. 

Among the questions to be discussed in the lecture are how has the discipline of biblical archeology developed and evolved over the last 100 years? What kinds of answers can archeology provide to help us clarify people’s understanding of the Bible? What are the different perspectives that it offers? The event will include time for attendees to ask further questions.

“Eitan’s June presentation on the iconic song ‘Jerusalem of Gold’ was a rousing success,” organizers said. “And we are delighted that he has graciously offered to treat us to another illustrated talk, this time on a topic that was dear to his father’s heart and that continues to fascinate and inspire visitors to Israel.”

Born and raised in Binghamton, Eitan and wife, Varda, moved to Israel in 1991. He received his B.A. in Middle Eastern and Jewish history from Bar Ilan University and served in the Israeli Army Tank Corps. He has been a licensed Israeli tour guide for the last 10 years. The Morells are parents to six children and two grandchildren. 
Until his retirement in 2007, Samuel Morell was a professor of Judaic studies at Binghamton University. His wife, Audrey, was the director of the Binghamton Jewish Community Center’s preschool. Both were active members of the Jewish community. Their children, Avi, Sima and Eitan, grew up in Binghamton and graduated from Hillel Academy.

“Beth David looks forward to the time when the monthly luncheon series can resume,” said organizers. “In the meantime, contributions to the Luncheon Fund are always appreciated.” Donations can be made in honor of or in memory of someone, or to mark a special occasion. Those wishing an acknowledgment to be sent to the person being honored or to the family of someone being remembered can indicate that, along with the necessary information. Donations can be sent to Beth David Synagogue, 39 Riverside Dr., Binghamton, NY 13905, Attention: Luncheon Fund.