Nataf


Nataf is a community settlement in central Israel. Located in the Judean Mountains, west of Jerusalem, it falls under the jurisdiction of Mateh Yehuda Regional Council. In it had a population of.

Etymology

Its biblical name is adopted from the Hebrew word for stacte, one of the spices used in the Temple.

History

According to Walid Khalidi, Nataf was founded in 1982 on land belonging to the depopulated Palestinian village of Bayt Thul, less than 1 km south of the village site of Nitaf. The village website states that Nataf was built on land bought from Arabs. According to Davar 40 Israeli families bought the land from Abu Ghosh Arabs.

Religious outlook

Only 20% of the residents are Modern Orthodox; 80% of the residents are secular. The village has a unique unaffiliated synagogue with three sections for prayer: a men's section, a women's section and a mixed section.

Geography

Nataf is situated on a ridge bounded by Kefira Valley to the north and Hamisha Valley to the south; the elevation is around 500m above MSL. It lies at the end of a 3-mile road that passes through Abu Ghosh.
Nataf overlooks Nataf Valley, a popular hiking destination. Nataf spring is watered all year round and has a number of small freshwater pools.

Notable residents