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Re: orion-list Essenes at Qumran: A Reality Check



Hope,

"Know" is a strong word. The Dead Sea was 60 meters higher, but the
amount of sunlight that area receives has not changed, and there is
still no sign that during the period the weather was significantly
different. Nor are the any signs of fields in the area, and the rocks
and hills do not give indications of major changes either. So...

Then, while pleasant enough in winter, from March to October, the Dead
Sea area is one of the hell-holes of the world. Potable water is in short
supply, but because of the Sea, not only is it hot, it is humid.

I doubt that the higher sea level back then could make the humidity higher
than it is today: saturated is saturated. The high humidity means that even
at rest the sweat rolls off of one constantly. When lying down, your own
body water pools in your neck, at your hair line, dribbles down your back
to collect at the base of your spine, and even gathers in small pools be-
tween your toes and fingers. Physical labor outdoors under these conditions
is exhausting, and can be very dangerous.

All the best,

Rochelle
--
Dr. Rochelle I. Altman, co-coordinator IOUDAIOS-L  risa@hol.gr

For private reply, e-mail to "Rochelle I. Altman" <risa@isis.hol.gr>
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