Bring your water to a boil.
While waiting for water to boil, pick over and wash beans.
Add your beans and ham into boiling water and stir.
Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Cover and let stand 1 hour.
After soaking, add salt and remaining ingredients.
Gently boil in covered pan for two hours, or until beans are tender. (Add boiling water if needed.)
Remove ham and finely dice the meat.
Partially mash the beans and add your diced ham.
Make your rivels by mixing together 2 cups of flour, 1 egg and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until crumbly and then add to your soup.
Taste soup to see if additional salt or pepper needs to be added for your taste.
Simmer for 1/2 hour.