Mt. Hermon is part of the Hermon range which is the southern part of the Anti-lebanon mountain range and runs approximately 28 miles in length with a maximum width of 15 miles. Mt. Hermon rises 9,100 feet above sea level which makes it the tallest mountain in Syria. The peak is visible even from the Dead Sea, 128 miles away. For two-thirds of the year snow covers the peak of the mountain. Until recently snow was brought down to the villages at the foot of the mountain to cool drinks. The practice may have been employed in biblical times as well. Melting snow provides the principal source for the Jordan River.
Nothing grows above the snow line but below it the slopes are covered with trees and vineyards which are inhabited by wolves, leopards, and bears. In the Hebrew Bible Mt. Hermon is praised for its lions (Song of Songs 4:8) and cypresses (Ezek. 27:5).
Mt. Hermon served as the northern border for the land conquered by Joshua (Josh. 11:17, 12:1,4-5) Psalm 29:6 uses majestic Mt. Hermon to accent the power of God.
Photograph from the Davka Israel Graphics Collection