Jerusalem: The Heart and Soul of Israeli National Identity
I was born in 1968 in America, and despite my skepticism and spiritual agnosticism, my connection to Jerusalem runs deep. Like many Israelis, Jerusalem has been a central point of focus for over two millennia, particularly during the intense period of the Six Days War in 1967, when the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) fought for the reunification of the city. The United Nations had divided the city in 1948, but after the Six Days War, Jerusalem was united under the Israeli flag, bringing a sense of fulfillment and nationalism to the Jewish people.
The Historical and Cultural Importance of Jerusalem
Jerusalem's place in history is inseparable from the narrative of the Jewish people. King David famously won the city in the 10th century BCE, and King Solomon built the first temple there. Since then, Jerusalem has been a beacon of hope and salvation for many. The city's historical sites and religious significance are not just monuments of the past, but living embodiments of hope and resilience.
Throughout history, Jerusalem has faced numerous trials. The harsh memory of the Holocaust and the expulsion of Jewish inhabitants from North African countries by Arab mobs remains a poignant reminder of the city's crucial role in sustaining Jewish identity and hope. The Psalm 137, 'By the rivers of Babylon...,' speaks to the deep emotional and spiritual pain experienced by Jews who were forced into exile. This sentiment continues to resonate with many, especially in a city that holds the promise of restoration and return.
Jerusalem and National Identity Today
For me, Jerusalem is more than just a city; it is the capital of the most amazing country in the world – a true miracle in our time. The country's success, its survival, and its vibrant culture are firmly rooted in the soil of Jerusalem. The city is not just a geographical location but a living, breathing testament to the strength and determination of the Jewish people. It is a place where cultural heritage and modernity coexist, each enriching and informing the other.
Many commandments in the Torah have specific relevance to Jerusalem. These include the sanctity of the city, the requirement to provide a proper succa (a booth for the Feast of Tabernacles) for Jerusalem, and the obligation to bring the first fruits (bikkurim) to the Temple in Jerusalem. These commandments serve as a reminder of the unique role that Jerusalem plays in Jewish life and tradition. For Israelis, living in Jerusalem means experiencing the daily intersection of religion, culture, and modernity in a way that is profoundly meaningful.
Personal Connection to Jerusalem
My personal connection to Jerusalem is even more profound. I live here, I married here, and my life and family are deeply intertwined with this city. My children were born and have grown up here, experiencing the full spectrum of Israeli life.
Before me, there were ancestors who also chose to lay down their roots in this city, like my great-great-great-great-grandfather Nathan, who moved to Jerusalem from Safad in 1837, and is buried on the Mount of Olives. This lineage adds another layer of depth to my connection to the city. Each time I step into Jerusalem, it feels like a continuation of an unbroken chain of generations, each contributing to the rich tapestry of this cherished city.
Concluding Thoughts
For those of us who call Jerusalem home, the city is not just a place but a symbol of our collective identity, resilience, and hope. It is a city that has endured centuries of conflict and triumph, and continues to be a beacon of light in the midst of darkness. The sight of the Western Wall, the stone fragments of the second temple, and the vibrant streets of the Old City are not just historical achievements but living covenants with our past, present, and future.
So, why is Jerusalem important to me? It is the very essence of who I am and where I come from. It is the heart and soul of Israeli national identity, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Jewish people, and a bridge between the past and the future.