**The Image is from the Mount of Olives**
Are you seeking information about the Beit Shemesh Cemetery, Eretz HaChaim Cemetery Beit Shemesh, or simply curious about the address of Eretz Hachaim Cemetery Beit Shemesh? You’ve come to the right place. Beit Shemesh, nestled in the Jerusalem District of Israel, is home to several prominent burial grounds that offer both spiritual tranquility and practical services. Whether you’re researching cemetery hours in Beit Shemesh, planning a funeral in the Beit Shemesh cemetery, or exploring cemetery Beit Shemesh Israel, this comprehensive guide will help answer your questions.
But don’t click away—keep reading to discover insider insights, helpful tips, and answers to frequently asked questions that can make navigating these cemeteries smoother for you and your loved ones.
Feel free to jump to the section that matters most to you, or read on for a full picture of what Beit Shemesh has to offer.
Why Beit Shemesh?
Beit Shemesh, a historically rich city located between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, has seen remarkable growth over the years. With its vibrant communities, lush surroundings, and easy access to major highways, it’s no wonder many families and individuals choose to settle here. For those looking at end-of-life arrangements, the cemeteries in Beit Shemesh provide serene resting places and a strong sense of Jewish tradition.
Did you know? Beit Shemesh has biblical origins, often associated with the Tribe of Judah. This deep-rooted heritage adds an extra layer of meaning when choosing to be buried here.
Eretz HaChaim Cemetery Overview
Eretz HaChaim Cemetery is one of the most notable privately owned cemeteries near Beit Shemesh. Many choose it for:
- Its picturesque setting in the Jerusalem Hills
- Full-time Beis Hamedrash and Kollel on-site
- Special amenities for Kohanim
- On-site funeral chapel and family room
- Proximity to Highway 1 (Jerusalem–Tel Aviv) and Route 38
- Quick 20-minute drive from Ben Gurion Airport
Eretz HaChaim strives to make the burial process as seamless as possible, from assisting with plot purchases to offering annual yahrzeit services, Kaddish arrangements, and even live funeral broadcasts for those who can’t attend in person.
Address of Eretz HaChaim Cemetery Beit Shemesh
For GPS, enter “Beth Hamlin Eretz HaChaim.” From Highway 1:
- Take the Sha’ar HaGai (שער הגיא) exit onto Route 38 toward Beit Shemesh.
- Continue straight for about 5 km until the Shimshon Junction / Tzomet Har Tov.
- Look for signs directing you to “Eretz HaChaim Cemetery.”
- Make the necessary turnoff and follow the signs until you reach the gates.
Tip: If you’re planning to visit, always call ahead for directions and to confirm the most up-to-date visiting hours.
Beit Shemesh Cemetery (Municipal Cemetery)
Separate from Eretz HaChaim, there is also the municipal Beit Shemesh Cemetery. It:
- Lies within the city’s municipal boundaries
- Offers traditional Jewish burial services
- Maintains records and images of headstones through genealogical sites like BillionGraves and Find a Grave
If you need to find a specific plot, these online resources can be incredibly helpful. For direct information, check the local municipality website or office for the cemetery hours in Beit Shemesh and any guidelines regarding visitation.
Cemetery Hours in Beit Shemesh
While hours can vary slightly between the municipal Beit Shemesh Cemetery and Eretz HaChaim Cemetery, here are some general pointers:
- Most cemeteries in Israel typically open by 8 AM and close before sunset.
- Holiday schedules (especially on Shabbat or Jewish holidays) may vary.
- If you need a funeral in Beit Shemesh Cemetery after standard hours, special arrangements through a funeral home or Chevra Kadisha are necessary.
Missing an important detail about funeral etiquette could cost you both time and stress.
Funeral Services and Etiquette
- Chevra Kadisha: Both Eretz HaChaim and the municipal cemetery work closely with established Chevra Kadisha (burial societies) to ensure all halachic requirements and dignities are observed.
- Transportation: For those arriving from abroad, airports such as Ben Gurion are just 20–35 minutes away. Funeral homes often coordinate the hearse and accompanying family transport directly to the cemetery.
- Live Broadcast/Recording: Eretz HaChaim and other services can arrange live funeral broadcasts for relatives and friends worldwide.
- Shiva Facilities: Some facilities near the cemetery offer places for immediate family members to sit Shiva briefly if needed before traveling back.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where Is the Largest Cemetery in the World Located?
The largest cemetery in the world is often cited as Wadi Al-Salam in Najaf, Iraq, covering over 1,400 acres and holding millions of graves. While this fun fact doesn’t pertain directly to Beit Shemesh, it does highlight how burial traditions vary across cultures.
2. How Much Is a Cemetery Plot in Israel?
Prices can range widely based on location and amenities. On average, a plot in Israel can begin around $3,000 to $5,000 in more remote areas, while prices in premium spots like Jerusalem or private cemeteries can exceed $10,000 or more.
- Eretz HaChaim specifically has offered rates around $5,000 – $11,000 in recent years, which may include maintenance fees and Chevra Kadisha services. Always check current prices and special offers.
Remember: Pre-planning a burial plot in Israel can sometimes lock in current rates, offering long-term savings and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Both Beit Shemesh Cemetery and Eretz HaChaim Cemetery serve as meaningful final resting places steeped in Jewish heritage. The presence of a full-time Kollel at Eretz HaChaim, the scenic Jerusalem Hills, and the ease of visiting from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem make these cemeteries a preferred choice for many families worldwide. If you are seeking more detailed records, genealogical sites like BillionGraves and Find a Grave are excellent resources to begin your research.
Whether you’re gathering information for yourself, a loved one, or merely curious about burial customs in Israel, we hope this guide has provided clear, trustworthy insights that satisfy your search. If you have further questions, do not hesitate to reach out to the cemetery offices directly or consult a local rabbi for halachic guidance.
Your Next Step: Real Estate Opportunities in Beit Shemesh
If you’re already drawn to the beauty and heritage of Beit Shemesh, consider exploring the region’s thriving property market. Owning real estate for rent for sale and investment in Beit Shemesh can open doors to a vibrant community and stable long-term returns.
Ready to explore what Beit Shemesh has to offer beyond its serene cemeteries?
Click here for real estate for rent for sale and investment in Beit Shemesh and discover the perfect home or investment opportunity in this flourishing city.
Thank you for reading! We hope this comprehensive guide answered all your questions about cemeteries in Beit Shemesh. Please feel free to bookmark or share this resource, so others can also benefit from reliable and up-to-date information.
