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 and had been a Binghamton University professor of Judaic studies until he retired in 2007. 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 Eitan Morell for the information at eitan.morell@gmail.com. “That topic was of particular interest to my father,” Morell said, “and so it is an honor to present my talk in his memory.”

Born and raised in Binghamton, Morell graduated from Binghamton’s Hillel Academy, and then attended Yeshiva University High School in New York City. He studied for two years in Yeshivat Shalavim in Israel. He received his B.A. in Middle Eastern and Jewish history from Bar Ilan University. He served in the Israeli Army Tank Corps. A licensed Israeli tour guide for the last 10 years with specialization in aspects of Jewish and Israeli history, Morell has lectured to groups in Israel, Europe, Canada and the United States. He and his wife, Varda, have been living in Israel since 1991 and have six children and two grandchildren.

“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.” He will discuss how the discipline of biblical archeology has developed and evolved over the last 100 years. He will share the different perspectives offered, and the kinds of answers archeology can provide to help clarify people’s understanding of the Bible. The presentation will offer time for discussion and questions.

“Beth David looks forward to the time when the monthly luncheon series can resume,” organizers added. “In the meantime, Zoom is helping this program continue, and contributions to the Luncheon Fund are always appreciated.” Donations can be made in honor 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.