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The so-called Dead Sea, also known as the "Sea of ​​Salt" or "Sea of ​​Arabah", is actually a lake and is considered the saltiest lake in the world. This implies that no living beingexcept some organisms microscopic, it can survive due to excess salt in its waters.

As for its location, it is between Israel and Jordan. Its extension is 70 km long by 18 km wide and the waters of the Jordan River are those that flow into the Dead Sea.

The extreme environmental conditions of the Dead Sea

The salinity of the Dead Sea is much higher than that of any ocean of the planet, specifically its salinity ranges between 26 and 35%. Only a few fungi can survive in its waters and bacteria. Likewise, the high salinity makes it possible to float very easily in its waters.

The Dead Sea has become a natural sanatorium and many people with ailments apply all kinds of treatments (minerals from the Water and the low solar radiation provides optimal conditions for them).

Currently the Dead Sea is in an accelerated process of drought. According to experts, this is due to global warming associated with a lack of rainfall. One of the consequences of this phenomenon is the

contamination salina del air, a circumstance that causes serious health problems (respiratory diseases, eye problems and an increase in blood pressure).

The historical dimension

In the depths of the Dead Sea there are large amounts of asphalt. Is substance It was used by the ancient Egyptians for the mummification process.

Already in ancient times the healing properties of its waters were known, especially for joint or skin problems. According to some legends, Queen Cleopatra bathed in her waters with the purpose of enhancing her beauty.

The prominence of this sea in history is unquestionable. In this regard, it is worth remembering the Dead Sea Scrolls, also called the Qumran Scrolls. These texts were discovered accidentally in 1946 and are written mostly in Hebrew and Aramaic. Thanks to them it has been possible to better understand the content of the Bible and the tradition Judeo-Christian.

The references that appear in the Bible about this sea are significant and among them we can highlight the prophecy of Ezekiel, who said that one day its waters will be fresh water and on its shores it will be possible to fish.

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Themes in Dead Sea