The ʿIron Pass / עיוני עירון

The article deals with the history and importance of three historical passes from the coastal plain of Canaan to the Jezreel Valley described in the annals of Thutmosis III concerning his first campaign in Asia (ca. 1585 CE). The author analyzes the ʿIron (Wadi ʿAra) pass and concludes that it was a dangerous, rarely frequented road, which armies and merchants tried to avoid. Its 'fame' in modern scholarship is based upon a misinterpretation of the Egyptian records. The pass through the Dothan Valley, on the other hand, was preferable in terms of topography, security, and water supply. It is mentioned in extant texts throughout history, including the Bible, and was in much use during both early and later periods. The third road mentioned in the annals of Thutmosis, heading north towards Yokneʿam, is related to Zefath (Djefty). This site was indentified by Aharoni with Kh. Sit Leila in the southern Carmel range. The present author suggests identifying it with impressive Tel el-Assawir, a strong site at the western entrance to the ʿIron pass.