DID YOU KNOW…
that the roofs of ancient Israel were flat and sturdy enough to allow many activities on top, such as weaving, social activities, and a place to dry flax, dates or figs?
However, they required a lot of maintenance.
They were supported on wooden beams or sturdy branches, with a cross layer of smaller branches.
On top lay a mat of brush or reeds and then a layer of compacted mud.
After heavy rain, a stone roller had to be used to close any cracks or fill up any holes in the top layer of mud.
If neglected the roof would be full of holes and leak, causing water to possibly run down the mud brick walls.
These would get soaked, bulge out and finally collapse.
A rain-soaked roof was well known in Bible times and has given rise to more than one proverb.
Ecclesiastes 10:18, "If a man is lazy the roof sinks in, and if his hands are idle, the house leaks.”
Proverbs 27:15, "A continual dripping on a rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.”
Compiled by Jim and Maxine Carlill.
Picture: stone roof roller - Beit Avraham Collection
