Set on one-third of an acre, the garden includes a waterfall, desert, stream, and a representation of the River Jordan flowing from Lake Galilee to the Dead Sea. More than 100 plants are displayed throughout the garden, each labeled with corresponding biblical verses and accompanied by replicas of ancient farming tools. Among the specimens are wheat, barley, millet, herbs, olives, dates, pomegranates, figs, and cedar trees. New plants are added annually.
Garden History
The Biblical Botanical Garden was established in 1986 by Irene and Rabbi Emeritus Dr. Walter Jacob to highlight the plants of the ancient Near East and bring the biblical world to life for visitors.
Each summer, a themed exhibit explores a different aspect of daily life in the ancient Near East through new plantings, educational displays, literature, and lectures by specialists. The Garden combines beauty, education, meditation, and spiritual sustenance while promoting interfaith understanding through the shared language of plants. A cascading waterfall flows into Lake Kineret (the Sea of Galilee), forming the Jordan River as it winds through the garden before ending in the Dead Sea, bordered by a small desert landscape.
Because many of the plants are Mediterranean or tropical, they must be brought indoors before the first frost and carefully maintained throughout the winter. As a result, the Garden is open during the summer season.
The Garden also recognizes the affection many people have for the Bible through plants named for biblical figures. Although these species were not grown in ancient Israel, a specially labeled selection highlights this enduring connection.
Visitor Information
The Biblical Botanical Garden is free and open to the public during operating hours. The Garden entrance is located near the corner of 5th Avenue and Devonshire, on Devonshire Street.
Guests are welcome to come and walk through the garden on their own.
Docent-guided tours are available by appointment between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. These tours are led by trained docents, who will guide your group through the garden. Guided tours must be scheduled at least two weeks ahead of your intended tour date. Email us at biblicalgarden@beitkulanu.org to schedule a tour.
2026 Garden Hours
(May 10–September 10)
Volunteering
The Biblical Botanical Garden is looking for volunteers to help us keep the garden running. Email us at biblicalgarden@beitkulanu.org or call 412-621-6566, ext. 143 if you’re interested in volunteering with us.
- GREETER Welcome visitors as they arrive and help create a friendly, inviting atmosphere in the garden. Shifts are typically two hours long, and no plant knowledge is required.
- DOCENT Lead guided tours and share the garden’s story with visitors. Training and educational materials are provided to help you feel confident in the role.
- GARDEN VOLUNTEER Assist with the care and upkeep of the garden, including planting, weeding, and general maintenance. Gardening experience is helpful but not required.