Vintage Charm Meets Modern Africa: Exploring the New Arusha Farm House

Vintage charm and modern comfort: Arriving at the Main House, where our safari adventure begins.

In just a few days, Vicki and I will be back in the air, heading to Tanzania to welcome a new group of safarists. We’ll be meeting them at a place that has quickly become a favorite: the Arusha Farm House.

A Blend of Heritage and Modern Comfort

Perched on the scenic shoulders of Mt Meru, this four-star lodge is perfectly situated off the main road between Moshi and Arusha. It offers a captivating atmosphere where vintage African charm meets contemporary luxury. Whether you’re arriving for the first time or returning, the Main House provides a warm and welcoming reception.

Poolside Serenity: Recharging at the pool house before heading out on safari.

Exceptional Facilities & Growth

The site has recently expanded (2025) to offer a wider range of accommodations and services:

• Diverse Lodging: Guests will discover single, double, or triple rooms, as well as private standalone bungalows.

• Modern Amenities: All rooms feature in-room Wi-Fi, laundry services, and seasonal climate control (heating or air conditioning) for ultimate comfort.

• Wellness & Recreation: Guests can now enjoy a dedicated spa and exercise room, or relax at the pool house and bar located right in the yard.

Dining Amongst the Trees

One of our favorite highlights from last year was the newly opened dining hall. We were among the first few groups to experience this stunning space, which opens directly onto the surrounding forest and offers breathtaking views of the natural wonders of Mt Meru.

Forest Flavors: Savoring locally-sourced meals in a dining room that brings the outside in.

The Heart of the Lodge: The Staff

As with all the lodges we partner with, the excellent staff is what truly sets the experience apart. From the warm greetings at reception to the nightly bonfire prepared in the pit behind the dining hall, every detail is handled with care.

After the long flight from the US, there is no better place to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead. We can’t wait to repeat the experience with our new team!.

Stories Under the Stars: The nightly bonfire—the heart of our evenings at the Farm House.

Vervet Monkeys: Africa’s Clever Primates & Human Mirror

Perched in quiet anticipation, the Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) is more than just a common face across sub-Saharan Africa. These clever primates are a mirror for humanity, captivating behavioral scientists with their familiar struggles. From the physical strain of hypertension to the complex social sting of spite and peer pressure—and even a notorious penchant for alcohol—they navigate a world of drama that looks strikingly like our own.

See vervets for yourself! Join our African Safari scheduled for June 3 - 13, 2027. Stay tuned for details.

Tender transfer

A cruise ship anchors offshore at the port of Mykonos, Greece.

What is a Cruise Tender Transfer?

Not every Mediterranean harbor can receive a large cruise ship. Sometimes the harbor is too shallow and the draft of the ship is too deep. Sometimes the pier infrastructure cannot accommodate the sudden arrival of a large crowd. Sometimes the port is congested and all the docking spaces are taken. And sometimes—just sometimes—the weather is rough and the decision is made to anchor in deeper water. So what happens next? How do passengers get from ship to shore without swimming for it?

The answer is a tender transfer.

Tenders are small support vessels that service big ships. Tender service shuttles people and supplies to a luxury liner anchored in deep water. The ride is typically short: 10 to 20 minutes at most.

The tender pulls alongside of the cruise ship.

Tips for a Tender Experience

Tender service is an important aspect of maritime operations. Accommodating a large number of people in a short amount of time means that the crew (and port authorities) must be ready to coordinate, receive, secure, and help transfer people from one moving craft to another. Because there is some risk involved (however small), precautions must be taken. (Those with mobility issues must be aware of these challenges and plan accordingly.) Tender tickets need to be secured in advance of disembarkation. Attention to ticket and door numbers on a big cruiser requires a bit of concentration (alert: there may be multiple departure doors). Lines must be found and formed inside the ship at assigned times. Passenger identities have to be checked (coming and going). And of course, instructions about when the last boat will be returning to the ship must be heeded, otherwise you may extend your visit unexpectedly!

A tender boat disengages from the cruiser and begins its journey toward the pier in Mykonos.

Because tendering is a regular part of the cruise industry, the work may appear effortless. But be assured, it is serious business and represents an exercise in passenger safety.

Personally, I enjoy tender treatment. Small boats offer a whole difference experience on the water. New angles—particularly the scale of ships—makes for fun photography. And let’s admit it, you can’t say you’ve really been at sea until you inhale a little salt spray!

So when you come to a port where the tenders are waiting, pump it up. Be sure to listen to instructions. Secure your tickets. If motion is a problem for you, take your medications in advance. Pay attention to timing. Find your line. Wear your sticker (and your life-jacket if instructed). Follow the instructions of the crew.

And get set for an amazing port of call!

Join Our Next Apostle Paul Mediterranean Tour

Join us on the wine dark sea this coming fall (Oct 22 - Nov 3, 2026). Mediterranean stops include Athens, Crete, Rhodes, Ephesus, Santorini, Mykonos, and others. For details on this journey highlighting the Apostle Paul, follow the link here.

And while you’re at it, here’s five reasons why you will be pleasantly surprised by a Mediterranean tour. Follow the link here.

Mark and Vicki at Santorini.

Sparring partners

Headed back toTanzania next week! We’re timing our arrival perfectly for the Great Migration birthing season—a time of incredible renewal on the "endless plains" of the Serengeti National Park.

The action never stops. Check out these two Thomson’s gazelles sparring below! This ritualized fighting behavior is how they establish territory.

Want to join us on safari next year? Save the dates: June 3 - 13, 2027 and watch for future announcements.

Must-have Sicilian Street Food

Traditional cone-shaped Sicilian arancini street food in Taormina, Italy.

The arancini: A Volcanic rush

Swing by any rosticceria (fast food shop) in Sicily and you will find arancini. It’s a hand-held delight made from risotto (rice, cheese, butter, onion and white wine) that is rolled, breaded, stuffed with more cheese and fried until crispy. Endless variations appear, including those that are shaped like a cone (like nearby Mt Etna, perhaps) found on the streets of Taormina.

Once bitten, its hard to resist the volcanic rush: crunchy on the outside, cheesy on the inside.

Headed back to Italy

Are you ready to experience real Italian flavor at the source? We’re headed back to Italy later this year from May 28 to June 6, and we want you to join us.

Important Notice: Today is the final day to submit your deposit without penalty.

• Tour Dates: May 28 – June 6, 2026

• Highlights: Authentic local cuisine, historic landmarks, and expert-led tours.

• Action Required: View the Full Italy Tour Brochure Here: https://www.jcbs.org/tours/jx26052826z62606

Big ship energy or mid-sized intimacy?

Vicki can’t hold it back anymore.

Different ships, different audiences

Cruise ships are not “one-size fits all.” Different sized ships serve different purposes and cater to different audiences.

Large ships like the Celebrity Reflection (pictured above) carry 3,000 passengers or more. They are built for maximum capacity, fun, and variety. Multiple pools, entertainment venues, restaurants, and activities appeal to multi-generational travelers. They are floating cities, and for this reason, often sail the major routes, hopping between big ports.

We used the Celebrity Reflection back in 2018 for our Mediterranean Cruise. That’s Vicki in the picture above!

The Celebrity Infinity. Image from here.

In praise of the mid-sized ship

In October of 2026 we’ll be returning to the water on the Celebrity Infinity, a sibling of the Reflection. Unlike the Reflection, however, the Infinity is a smaller cruiser. It is classed as midsized.

Midsized ships still have plenty of amenities. But they are not as overwhelming and seek to balance comfort with intimacy, relaxation with activity. Midsized ships tend to attract an audience more interested in destinations than on-board entertainment. They also call on smaller ports that supersize liners bypass.

Sign on for our upcoming Apostle Paul Mediterranean Cruise

Bible Land Explorer is excited to partner with the Christian HolyLand Foundation and Educational Opportunities aboard the Celebrity Infinity. We’ll be visiting Mediterranean sites of biblical significance, including Athens, Rhodes, Ephesus, Thessaloniki, Corinth and others. A pre-tour to Rome is also available. Our onboard talks will be focused on the life of the Apostle Paul. Attention will given to biblical and archaeological angles.We’ll also take time to savor the 40th anniversary of the ministry of the Christian HolyLand Foundation (CHLF).

I hope you will join us for this amazing voyage. Click the link here for the trip brochure.

For a tour of the Celebrity Infinity, follow the link here.

Five reasons why you will be pleasantly surprised by a Mediterranean cruise—click here.

And to learn more about the work of the CHLF, follow the link here.

Would you like Fries with That? Fast Food in Ancient Pompeii

Fast Food, First-century style

If you’re hungry and hunting fast food along the streets of Pompeii (and you happen to be around before the volcano smothered the town in AD 79), you might swing by a thermopolium (Greek for “cook-shop”). Pray the line is short.

“L” shaped food counters like this one faced the street and featured built-in clay jars. The jars were filled with food and drink, kept warm by the terracotta. Hearty stews and soups (consisting of pork, seafood, goat, and snails) could be purchased as a entrée, with sides of bread, cheese, and nuts. Of course, no good Mediterranean meal would be complete without condiments, and there was no finer dipping sauce than a pungent garum (made from fish mash).

A well-preserved street in Pompeii.

fast food was A lively industry at PompeiI

In urban areas of the New Testament world, many residential apartments (insulae) lacked cooking facilities. Meals could purchased for take-away in places like this—and incidentally, the more well-to-do residents scorned the thermopolia. Scoff if you will, you McDonald’s-haters; more than 150 soup counters were found here, suggesting that take-away was a lively industry.

Try to imagine the aroma wafting down the street on a cool winter evening.

Do you think the Apostle Paul ever asked for extra cheese?

Linda Baines, one of our Bible Land Explorers, slipped behind the counter to stir the pot, a role she relishes.

Is Italy in your future?

We have a couple of Italy trips on tap this year and next. Here’s a link to a May 28 - June 6, 2026 excursion that has open seats right now. Will you join us?

Luxor is more than just ruins—it’s where history feels personal

Luxor, Egypt, is a spectacular place to visit. The tombs and temples are amazing. The food is great. And the people are among the kindest you will ever meet.

An amazing hike

Back in 2024, I had an opportunity to nose around Luxor with my dear friend Nouby. We scurried over ruins, crawled into a tomb or two, shared tea, and enjoyed all that this area of Upper Egypt has to offer. While hiking the wetlands on the West Bank, Nouby borrowed a basket from a local woman and we took turns pitching it into the water with a rope. Of course, we chatted about the story of Mussa/Moses and how this special baby experienced a basket ride among the bulrushes (Exodus 2).

An amazing Gift

Imagine my surprise (last November) when I returned and he presented me with a painting of that memory! An artist from the Isis 2 gallery hand-painted it on a papyrus sheet. Thanks also goes to Ahmad el-Shaer, the owner of Isis 2 who made this happen. What a treasure!

Here’s the video summary of our wetland experience. Enjoy!

From crawling into ancient tombs to pitching baskets into the Nile, our time in Luxor is always unforgettable. We're retracing the steps of Moses and exploring the heart of Upper Egypt.

Some amazing opportunities

For curated itineraries that offer deeper cultural connections and biblical study, email us a BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com to learn about these four upcoming Egypt study-tours.

• May 5 - 15, 2026

• January 1 - 9, 2027

• January 23 - February 7, 2027

• March 30 - April 8, 2027

The Galata Bridge: A Cross-Cultural Artery in Istanbul

Fisherman on the upper deck, traditional fish restaurants on the lower deck of the Galata Bridge, Istanbul.

Linking Eminönü and Galata: Where Two Worlds Meet

The Galata Bridge is a cross-cultural artery in the beating heart of Istanbul. The 490-meter span stretches the breadth of the Golden Horn, an inlet of the Bosphorus Strait. Pedestrians, vehicles, and a tram move across the upper deck that links Eminönü with Galata. A stroll from one end to the other is truly a cross-cultural experience: Eminönü has deep Ottoman connections while Galata has a European flavor.

Eminönü is a part of the “historic peninsula.” It was from this point that the Ottoman Empire was governed. It is a place of mosques and palaces.

Galata, on the other side of the bridge, has Genoese roots. Non-muslim diplomats, foreign embassies, and European banks are historically found here.

View to Galata from the water. That’s the Galata Tower on the distant hill.

A Bridge Designed by Giants? Da Vinci and Michelangelo

The current bridge—built in 1994—is the fifth installment of structures in this place. Like its predecessor, it has vendor stalls and eateries on the lower deck. (I must confess: I’ve enjoyed several grilled fish here, perhaps caught by one the fisherman lining the rail?)

View of the Galata Bridge spanning the Golden Horn in Istanbul with fishermen at the rail. This is the Eminönü end. The Suleymaniye Mosque towers in the distance.

Among those who worked on the original 16th c bridge design? Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo!

The modern bridge is raisable—or bascule. Leaves in the central span swing upward to allow ships to pass.

Whether you're dodging fishing lines on the top deck or biting into a grilled fish sandwich on the bottom, it is a cross-cultural artery in the city.

Interested in a tour of Biblical Türkiye? Write us at BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com.

I Sing (or Croak)

The well-preserved stone seating of the Odeon at Ephesus, Türkiye.

Theater or Odeon: What’s the difference?

A “little theater” is found in Ephesus and other urban areas of the classical Mediterranean world. It is often a freestanding structure (not built into a hillside), U-shaped, but has less seating than a theater. This reduced scale offered a more intimate environment. The "little theater" was designed for musical performances, lectures, or recitals.

Such a structure is called an odeon (ōideion). The label is Greek, prompted by the verb aeidō, meaning "I sing” — or “hoot,” “howl,” or “croak.” (I guess one man’s meat is another man’s poison!)

Want superior sound? add a roof

Apart from their diminutive size, the other feature that separates the odeon from the theater is the roof. Whereas theaters were open to the sky or shaded with tarps, odeons had solid, wooden roofs that produced superior acoustics. Unfortunately, organic materials rarely survive the ravages of time.

Pictured above is an odeon found at the site of Ephesus, in Western Türkiye.

Visiting the Odeon at Ephesus with Bible Land Explorer

We’re heading back to the Odeon in Ephesus this fall on our Apostle Paul Mediterranean Cruise. Will you be there to "sing, howl, or croak" with us? Click here for a link to the brochure.

Want to read more? Have a look at one feature of the odeon at Pompeii, Italy. Follow the link here.

İznik: The Ancient City of Nicea, the Nicene Creed & A Punchy Saint Nicholas

View of the snow-capped mountains and ancient Byzantine walls of İznik, formerly Nicea.

Bithynia in the New Testament

Here’s a view taken on a winter’s day from İznik, in northwest Türkiye. I scampered to the top of the Late Roman/Byzantine fortifications and pointed my camera lens into the wind and to the distant mountains, still blotchy with snow. This region appears in the New Testament as Bithynia (Acts 16:7, 1 Peter 1:1).

The Birthplace of The Nicean Creed

İznik was once called Nicea. This was the site of the first and seventh ecumenical councils of the early Christian Church. Here (in AD 325), surrounded by these same mountains, the words of the Nicene Creed were hammered out. These words are still repeated by many of us today:

“We believe in one God, the Father, the almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. . . ”

St Nicholas got punchy here

On a lighter note, at this same council, Saint Nicholas (the historical figure behind Santa Claus) punched a bishop in the face. The reason? The Arian controversy. This debate centered on the nature of Jesus Christ and His relationship to God the Father. It prompted the first Nicean meeting, creed, and memorable punch.

It’s was a hot time in the old town that night.

Above the Clouds: The Final Push on Mt. Kilimanjaro

The summit of Kilimanjaro consists of volcanic scree, glacial ice, and thin air (8/8/2017).

In light of the approaching snowpocalypse, I thought a couple of pictures from Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania might be appropriate.

Reaching Stella Point: The Hardest Part is Over

The shot above was taken from the trail above Stella Point. Once the climber has reached Stella (18,885’), the really tough push is over. From here, with good timing, the sun breaks over the horizon to warm the blue and reveal gently undulating ridges. It’s just a hour’s stroll to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kili (19,341’).

Surviving the Cold: Summit Temperatures on Kilimanjaro

If your water-bottle isn’t riding in a sock and deeply buried in your coat, it will freeze solid. Average temperatures along these ridges swing from 20 degrees F to -20 degrees F. On a cold morning, with wind chill, it can feel like -35 degrees F. That’s cold. Brain-numbing cold.

Thinking of tackling “the Roof of Africa”? Wear your woolies.

to read more on Kilimanjaro

If you want to read more about Kilimanjaro (we’ve summited twice), scroll down the sidebar on the Bible Land Explorer website to “Mountaineering” or “Mt Kilimanjaro.”

Three numb dudes who will never forget the sunrise of August 8, 2017 (Jason Wilcoxon, MZ, and Tommy Baker).

Sunset on the Nile

Insert a little peace into your evening.

Piazza Navona: The Living Spectacle of Downtown Rome

From Ancient Stadium to Public Square

The Piazza Navona in downtown Rome is a place of spectacle (and has been for a long time).

Today it is a public space for shopping, eating, and relaxation.

In the 17th century, it was a showcase of Baroque art with impressive pieces still on display (note Bernini’s “Fountain of the Four Rivers” behind the bubble-maker in the photo above).

In the first century the public square was the location of the Stadium of Domitian, a sports stadium called the Circus Agonalis.

Join Us in Rome in 2026

We invite you to experience these New Testament world connections firsthand. We are hosting two distinct opportunities to explore the "Eternal City" in 2026:

1. Italy Land Tour (Venice to Pompeii): May 28 – June 6, 2026. This journey spans the peninsula and concludes with the wonders of Pompei. View details at the link here.

2. Aegean Cruise Pre-Trip: October 22 – November 3, 2026. Dive into Rome before we set sail for the wonders of the Aegean. View details at the link here.

Bible Land Explorer trips are more than a vacation—they are an opportunity to explore the place where faith begins!

Mark Your Calendars: Our 2027 Tanzania Safari Dates are Set!

Small Footprint, Large Experience

We just received confirmation of our safari dates for next year! June 3-13, 2027 we will be back in Tanzania, camping the great parks including Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Exact details and budget are still in the works, but should be ready soon.

If full-on adventure in the African backcountry is on your wish list, you’ll need to mark your calendars. Know that we rent Land Cruisers with limited seating in order to keep our footprint small and our experiences large.

Follow Our 2026 Crew

We are leaving in less than a month with this year’s expedition! If you want to see the "backcountry" experience in action, be sure to track our journey on Facebook and YouTube.

“Death in the Pot!”: Solving the Mystery of Elisha’s Poisonous Stew

Is it safe? Image from here.

Mystery in the Kitchen

An alarming cry was heard when the stew was served: “death in the pot!”

I know the sound. I’ve been the siren. I’ve spent my life avoiding dishes with squishy veggies.

As the narrative of 2 Kings 4:38-41 goes, a famine forced new food choices. A cook unwittingly added a poisonous ingredient to a stew prepared for a group of prophets-in-training. Fortunately, the danger was recognized before anybody went down. Elisha “healed” the stew by adding flour to the mix. It became an edible meal.

The account is brief but baffling. Was the cook unfamiliar with the plants in his area? Was he just that desperate? Who detected the poison and how? Can flour really serve as an emulsifier to “heal” such a brew? And most importantly, should the seminary cafeteria be avoided at all costs?

Elisha: The Antidote to Death

Interpreters often view this as just another eclectic miracle on Elisha’s résumé. As the ultimate "Man of God," Elisha acts on behalf of YHWH to administer the antidote of life in atmospheres of death. But for those of us fascinated by the botany of the Bible, the question remains: What exactly was in that pot?

Interpreters often read this passage as just another item in Elisha’s impressive (and eclectic) résumé. The prophet is the ultimate “man of God” (he practically owns the phrase), a miracle-worker a problem-solver. I would add a bit more. Elisha acts on behalf of YHWH to administer the antidote of life in atmospheres of death (such as a famine).

Sodom apples (Calotropis procera), growing in a ditch beside the road in Jericho.

Candidates for the "Death-Dealing" Gourd

The Hebrew term paqquot describes a ball- or knob-shaped item. While we can't be certain, three plants found in the biblical heartland are the usual suspects:

1. The Prophetic Cucumber (Cucumis prophetarum)

Some specialists have suggested the secret ingredient might be wild cucumber. Cucumis prophetarum is a plant found in arid areas of the biblical Heartland. It packs a bitter punch to the palate, can make your inner organs swell and pop, causes dehydration, and will slam your blood pressure. (Fun fact: the Latin Cucumis prophetarum means “prophetic cucumber” . . . and now you know the rest of the story!) No thanks. Not on my table.

2. The Bitter Apple (Citrullus colocynthis)

Similarly, Citrullus colocynthis, colocynth, or “bitter apple,” has been suggested as our mystery ingredient. It looks like a creepy vine with little stripy watermelons, grows naturally in the area, and finds use in traditional medicine kits. However, as is often the case, there is a fine line between a medicine and a toxin. When consumed, the colocynth is a laxative with the finesse of a hand grenade. It loosens a locked door but can also blow it off the hinges. Permanently. Nope. Keep all explosive melons out of the kitchen, please!

3. The Apple of Sodom (Calotropis procera)

A third possibility for our stew-of-death is Calotropis procera or the “apple of Sodom.” The name itself should provoke terror. All parts of this plant are dangerous. Its milky sap can cause lesions on the skin, blindness if rubbed in the eyes, and if ingested, can initiate cardiac failure. Needless to say, this baaaaad plant will make a meal to die for! It would certainly prompt an alarming cry of “death in the pot”!

Lessons from the Biblical kitchen

Whether it was a lack of botanical knowledge or sheer desperation due to famine, the cook in 2 Kings learned a hard lesson: it takes faith to be a vegetarian—and a more careful cook!

Care to lean more? I wrote about Sodom apples several years ago. Check out our post here: https://www.markziese.com/stories/2015/10/22/dmdoziw72gexrz2j8bmp6du1ta16rf

The Apple of Sodom in my hand.

That Nikon is a Cannon

Les Riley captured this view to two of our team members on African safari. That’s Gary Weisenberger firing from the stern position with a rather large-caliber lens. I’m curious what Gary sees in the viewfinder. It’s sure to be Serengeti-sized, whatever it is!

Gary takes aim . . .

Want to learn more about travel photography? Follow the link here.

Teamwork in the Wild: The Wattled Starling and the Wildebeest

A Wattled Starling perches on the back of a wildebeest in the African savanna, demonstrating mutualism.

In the vast landscapes of the African savanna, few sights are as charming as the Wattled Starling (Creatophora cinerea) hitching a ride on the back of a wildebeest.

The starling pictured here lacks the distinctive black and yellow facial markings of a breeding male, suggesting it may be a non-breeding male or a female. Regardless of its status, this bird is on a mission.

The Science of a Free Ride

Starlings hang out with their "big friends" for one primary reason: food. As a wildebeest moves through the grass, its massive weight stirs up clouds of insects. Additionally, the wildebeest’s tough hide is often home to ectoparasites—such as ticks, mites, or fly larvae—which are a prized delicacy for the bird.

In exchange for a mobile buffet, the starling provides a cleaning service, removing pests that would otherwise irritate or harm the host.

Mutualistic Symbiosis: Why We Work Better in Teams

This relationship is a textbook example of mutualistic symbiosis, where both species benefit from the interaction. It’s a natural "win-win."

Beyond the biology, there is a proverbial lesson here. Just like the bird and the beast, we often find our greatest success when we lean into our unique roles to help one another. It’s a reminder of why we work better in teams:

• Shared Goals: Both parties get what they need.

• Unique Strengths: The wildebeest provides the platform; the starling provides the precision.

• Efficiency: They accomplish more together than they ever could alone.

Either way, this bird is hungry, ready to help, and proof that teamwork is wired into the system.

Reminds me of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV): “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

Pi3y the Doorkeeper: An Egyptian Statue and a Biblical Psalm

Ancient Egyptian acacia wood statue of Pi3y the doorkeeper, 18th Dynasty New Kingdom.

An Egyptian Statue

This statue from ancient Egypt presents a young man by the name of Pi3y (possibly pronounced “Pee-ah-ee”).* The figure is carved from acacia-wood, stands about 20 inches tall, and is remarkable for at least three reasons.

A Masterpiece of the New Kingdom

One reason has to do with the date of manufacture and artistic presentation. Scholars place this piece at the end of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, approximately the time of biblical Moses. Pi3y’s details are amazing (check out his curls and pleats). We see here a blend of older traditional elements and newer naturalistic tendencies.

The Name Pi3y

Second, the name of the young man is recorded four times on the piece, once on the base and three times on the back. Pi3y is a common name in New Kingdom Egypt but is not attested earlier.

The Role of a "Doorkeeper"

Third, not only does this personal name affix itself to the figure, so too a title. Pi3y was a “keeper” or “doorkeeper” to the palace. Some believe this to be the position of a guardian, porter, bouncer, or some type of administrator.

The Doorkeeper in Psalm 84:10

I find it fascinating to compare Pi3y’s status with the sentiment found in Psalm 84:10:

"For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness."

In the biblical context, the doorkeeper is one who stands at the threshold (Hebrew: histofef), likely at the Temple in Jerusalem. While Pi3y’s inscription on his back pillar begs the goddess Werethekau to let him remain in the service of his master, the Psalmist makes a counter-cultural claim: that the humblest position in the presence of God is superior to any status among the godless.

The author proposes that being near to the presence of God is better than human status or ease among the godless.

A Prayer for Service

Returning to the wooden statue of Pi3y, consider the inscription on its back:

“O Werethekau, lend me your ear, I am your doorkeeper grant that (I) may remain in the service of my master, that (I) may open (?) his doors.”**

Whether in the palaces of Egypt or the courts of Zion, the "doorkeeper" reminds us that who we serve is far more important than the threshold we stand upon.

——————————————

*This statue is on display in the Museum of the Louvre, Paris, Pavilion Sully, Hall 26, Showcase 4.

**For more on the statue of Pi3y, see the article here: https://www.academia.edu/19956252/The_statue_of_the_Doorkeeper_of_the_palace_Pi3y_Louvre_E_124_ (accessed 1/15/2026).

Scavengers of Ngorongoro: Lessons on Energy and Renewal

A black-backed jackal and hooded vulture scavenging in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.

The 10 Percent Rule: Nature’s Energy Budget and Psalm 104

Most of us understand the idea of the food chain in the natural world (this one eats that one and so on and so forth), but are you aware of the 10 percent rule?

In ecology, the 10 percent rule suggests that as energy is passed from producers (plants) to consumers (animals), the bulk of that energy—roughly 90%—is lost to life processes such as movement, heat production, reproduction, or waste. Only about 10 percent of energy is successfully transferred from one trophic level to the next.

This biological reality is why food chains remain short (usually capped at five levels) and why a healthy ecosystem requires a massive base of producers to support just a few top predators.

The Clean-Up Crew of the Ngorongoro Crater

The clean-up crew pictured above is a critical last stop for energy transfer in the Tanzanian grasslands. Scavengers and decomposers break down the last scraps of carcasses (often inedible to others) and release it back into soil. Plants absorb the nutrients from the soil and the cycle begins again (cue the “Circle of Life” tune from Disney’s Lion King).

Ecological Wisdom in Psalm 104

This system of the food chain is hinted at in Psalm 104. Contemplate these edible bits from vss 27-31:

“All creatures look to you to give the food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things. . . When you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust. When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground. May the glory of YHWH endure forever; may YHWH rejoice in his works.”

In the biblical view, the death of one creature and its "return to the dust" is not a glitch in the system, but the very mechanism by which the Creator renews the face of the ground. The jackal and the vulture are not just scavengers; they are ministers of this renewal, ensuring that nothing is wasted and that the glory of the natural world endures.