The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias or Kinneret, is a freshwater lake. Located in northern Israel, it is the lowest freshwater lake on Earth and the second-lowest lake globally, only surpassed by the Dead Sea. This body of water is a crucial natural resource for the region.
Defining Its Freshwater Nature
The Sea of Galilee’s freshwater nature stems from its hydrological cycle, driven by the Jordan River. The Jordan River flows into the lake from the north, its main water source. Additionally, underground springs contribute to the lake’s water supply. This constant inflow ensures continuous replenishment, preventing salt accumulation.
The lake also has a single outflow: the Jordan River continues its journey south from the Sea of Galilee towards the Dead Sea. This continuous flow, regulated by the Degania Dam at its southern end, flushes out any dissolved minerals that might otherwise lead to increased salinity.
Life and Utility
Its freshwater supports diverse aquatic life. It is home to various fish species, including the Galilean tilapia, blue tilapia, and the Kinneret sardine. Local flora, such as reeds along the shoreline, and microscopic organisms like phytoplankton, also thrive in its waters.
Beyond its ecological significance, the Sea of Galilee serves as an important resource for human populations. It functions as a primary source of drinking water for Israel. While desalination now provides a significant portion of Israel’s drinking water, the lake remains an important strategic water reserve. Its waters are also utilized for irrigation, supporting agriculture in the fertile surrounding plains, and contribute to tourism through recreational activities like boating and swimming.
The “Sea” in Name Only
The designation of the Sea of Galilee as a “sea” is a historical convention, not a hydrological classification. In ancient times, smaller inland bodies of water, particularly those of significant size, were often referred to as “seas” in the region. For instance, the Hebrew Bible refers to it as the “Sea of Kinneret.”
Despite its name, the Sea of Galilee is defined as a lake due to its enclosed nature and freshwater characteristics. Its dimensions, approximately 21 kilometers long and 13 kilometers wide, are substantial for a lake but not comparable to oceanic bodies.