Soak beans for four hours or overnight in enough water to cover by 1 inch. When ready to cook, preheat oven to 325°. Saute' onions in olive oil until tender, but not brown. Drain beans and save juice. Combine beans with onions, herbs, and garlic. Pour into a bean pot. Add bean juice and enough hot water to cover beans by 3/4" of water. Place partially covered pot in oven. Bake at a slow simmer 350° for 1 1/2 hours. Remove from oven if you want a juicy side dish that can be served in a bowl or remove cover and bake 1/2 hour more for a firm bean side dish. Serve warm or at room temperature with Italian bread and a green salad. Serves 6-8.