Yitziat Mitzraim - When did it happen in Bet Shemesh?
Yes, this is a trick question. I’m not asking for the date when we left Egypt. (15th day of Nissan)
When did the Egyptians leave Bet Shemesh?
On the 15th of May 1948, the Arab countries invaded the (day old) State of Israel.
It is well known that the Egyptians attempted to get to Tel Aviv, but were stopped at “Gesher Ad Halom” which is near Ashdod.
It is well known that the Egyptians were stopped at Kibbutz Ramat Rachel, on their way to Yerushalaim.
It is not well known that the Egyptians had a group of scouts who made it all the way north to … Bet Shemesh.
In downtown Bet Shemesh there is a street named Rechov HaMishlat. Mishlat mean forward outpost.
Remember that in 1948 the city didn’t exist yet. There was a Jewish settlement at Har Tuv (today Nacham), the British Tegart Fort Police Station on Route 38 (which is now our police station),
and many Arab villages in the area.
On July 18, 1948 during “Mivtza (Operation) Dani”, the Palmach unit of the Harel brigade of the Haganah conquered the northern section of the area between Bet Shemesh and Yerushalaim.
This area contained sites known today as Tzuba, Eitanim, Kisalon, Tzora, Dir Rafat Monastery, Har Tuv.
On October 20, 1948, the southern section of the area between Bet Shemesh and Yerushalaim was conquered.
This area contained sites known today as Bet Jamal Monastery, Zecharia, Bet Natif, Azeika, Nes Harim, Bar Giora.
During this 3 month period (July-October 1948) there was a “Mishlat HaMeshutaf” (a joint outpost) near current Rechov HaMishlat in Bet Shemesh.
The Palmach had an outpost and the Egyptians had an outpost. 60 meters separated the two sides.
There is a plaque commemorating this “Mishlat” near the building currently housing the City of Bet Shemesh – Machleket Hageviah.
Therefore, the Yitziat Mitzraim which I am referring to occurred on October 20, 1948. (17th day of Tishrei)
