Where is Tzfat in Israel, and Why is Safed Important to Judaism
Tzfat, also spelled Safed, is a small city located in the Upper Galilee region of northern Israel. Perched high in the mountains at an elevation of about 900 meters (2,953 feet), Tzfat is the highest city in Israel. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys, including the Sea of Galilee to the east and Mount Meron to the west. Despite its modest size, the city plays an outsized role in Jewish history and spirituality.
If you are wondering “where is Tzfat in Israel, and why is Safed important to Judaism,” you’re not alone. These two names refer to the same mystical city that has captured the hearts and souls of generations of Jews around the world. The city’s blend of history, spirituality, art, and mysticism makes it one of the four holy cities in Judaism, alongside Jerusalem, Hebron, and Tiberias.
Where is Tzfat in Israel?
Tzfat (Safed) is located in the Northern District of Israel. It lies roughly 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Tiberias and about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the Lebanese border. The city is accessible via Route 89 and is about a two-hour drive from Haifa and a three-hour drive from Jerusalem.
Because of its location on the slopes of Mount Canaan, Tzfat enjoys a mild climate with cooler temperatures than most of Israel—especially in summer. Its altitude also means the city is often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical atmosphere.
Despite its relatively remote location, Tzfat is a key cultural, religious, and tourist destination, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each year who are eager to explore its spiritual legacy, ancient synagogues, cobblestone alleys, and thriving artist colony.
Why is Safed Important to Judaism?
Tzfat’s importance in Judaism is deeply rooted in its historical, mystical, and religious significance. Safed is considered one of the four holy cities in Jewish tradition, and its spiritual legacy spans centuries. Below are the main reasons why Safed holds such a crucial place in Jewish heritage.
1. Center of Kabbalah (Jewish Mysticism)
Perhaps the most well-known reason why Safed is important to Judaism is its association with Kabbalah, or Jewish mysticism. In the 16th century, after the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492, many prominent rabbis and scholars settled in Tzfat. The city became the global epicenter for Kabbalistic study.
Rabbi Isaac Luria, known as the Ari or the Arizal, moved to Tzfat in the 1500s and developed what is now known as Lurianic Kabbalah. His teachings transformed Jewish thought and continue to influence Jewish mysticism to this day.
2. Home to Renowned Rabbis and Scholars
Tzfat attracted some of the most respected rabbinic figures in Jewish history. Along with the Arizal, other scholars who lived in Safed include:
- Rabbi Yosef Karo – Author of the Shulchan Aruch
- Rabbi Moshe Cordovero – Known as the Ramak
- Rabbi Shlomo Alkabetz – Author of the hymn Lecha Dodi
Their works continue to shape Jewish practice and theology worldwide.
3. Birthplace of Jewish Legal Codification
Rabbi Yosef Karo wrote the Shulchan Aruch in Safed—one of the most authoritative legal codes in Orthodox Judaism. This work unified Jewish law and remains widely followed today.
4. Spiritual and Artistic Culture
Tzfat’s spiritual atmosphere inspired artists and musicians, creating a unique blend of mysticism and art. The Artist Colony in the Old City features galleries, Judaica, and artwork influenced by Kabbalistic themes.
5. Historic Synagogues
Safed is home to ancient synagogues, including:
- Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue – Named after the Arizal
- Abuhav Synagogue – Features a Torah scroll attributed to Rabbi Abuhav
- Yosef Karo and Alsheich Synagogues
These synagogues are central to the city’s spiritual life and history.
6. Modern-Day Pilgrimage and Relevance
Thousands visit Safed each year for prayer, study, and spiritual experiences. The graves of the Arizal, Rabbi Karo, and others are key pilgrimage sites. The city also hosts many spiritual retreats and Kabbalah seminars.
7. Tzfat and the Four Holy Cities
Tzfat is one of the four holy cities in Judaism, representing the element of air. The others are:
- Jerusalem – Fire
- Hebron – Earth
- Tiberias – Water
8. Role in the Modern State of Israel
During the 1948 War of Independence, Jewish forces captured Safed, securing the Galilee region. Today, it is a blend of modern Israeli life and ancient tradition, home to both religious and secular communities.
Conclusion
So, where is Tzfat in Israel, and why is Safed important to Judaism? Tzfat is a high-altitude city in the northern Galilee that has played a pivotal role in Jewish spiritual history. As the birthplace of modern Kabbalah, the home of influential rabbis, and a center for Jewish law and mysticism, Tzfat remains a treasured site for Jews around the world.
Its mystical charm, scenic beauty, and deep religious roots continue to make Safed a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the soul of Judaism.
