In the sixth Haftara of comfort, the Haftara for Parshat Ki Tavo, we come across an interesting verse about God compensating Israel (Yishayahu 60:17): “Where once there was copper, I will bring gold and where there was iron, silver. Where once there was wood, I shall bring copper and where there was stone, now iron.”
God will repay us with far more than what was stolen from us. The enemies stole our copper, but God will repay us with gold. They stole our iron and God will repay us with silver. God will replace native rock with more expensive metals.
Part of this prophecy has already come true!
In 1992, a 1,000 year old gold mine was discovered near the Timna copper mines, just north of Eilat, which date back to the time of King Solomon. The mine, dated between 800 and 1000 CE has important historic value. It disproves the belief that gold was always imported to the area. However, it is the first and only gold mine which has yet to be discovered in Israel.
Although copper was usually found in the area of Timna, there was a period where gold was found there as well. Maybe one day we will discover more copper mines that have turned into gold mines as described in our Haftara.
Another exciting gold revelation was made in 2013 when archeologist Eilat Mazar discovered the Ophel Treasure at the foot of the Temple Mount. This is a 1400 year old collection of 36 gold coins, gold and silver jewelry and a large gold medallion engraved with depictions of a menorah, a shofar and a Torah scroll. This find was described as a once in a lifetime experience.
Let’s hope that in addition to all of Israel’s spiritual nourishment we are able to discover some gold and silver as well which can help boost the economy.
