So our last events in Jerusalem included a trip to Yad V’shem- the Israeli Holocaust Museum. This museum is among the largest depicting the actions the Germans, the Poles, the Romanians, and the French, among others, effected to eradicate some 6 million Jews- a majority of the population of Jews residing in Europe prior to World War II. In addition to the depictions of life before and during the Holocaust, there is an extensive research system where folks can learn about families who perished in the war.
Tag Archives: Jerusalem
More Jerusalem
So, we had high hopes today to tour the walk under the Kotel, the Western Wall.
And, now I should explain (once again) about the term “balagan”. The true definition is complex, but the best analogy is either “Fubar” or “Snafu”. (Those are two words I learned from the New York Post more than 60 years ago- when they were used as the the 6 inch headlines. My parents were most reluctant to explain the terms- which could not be found in dictionaries back then.)
Jerusalem- the real reason for my trip
After the one day excursions to Tel Aviv and the Negev, the rest of my trip to Israel was devoted to Jerusalem. Which was the real reason for my trip.
17th of Tamuz
While the Jewish summer started 17 days ago with the advent of the month of Tamuz, that’s not really why folks like me remember Tamuz.
Yom Yerushalayim
So, you probably celebrated yesterday as Mother’s Day. My son drove down from Manhattan to celebrate the weekend with his mom and his surrogate mom (his nanny). Oh- and he spent some time with his homebound dad, as well. (We even watched a 12 inning Phillies game together. Which the Phillies worked diligently to lose!!!!!) But, that’s not the point of today’s blog.
A full cycle…
So, today is somewhat of a special day. But, before you will understand why it’s special, I need to give you a little background.
The Hill of the Forests (קרית יערים)
Back when I first began visiting Yerushalayim (and Israel), I would always get excited when we passed the village of Abu Ghosh. Because it meant we were almost in Jerusalem, my place of choice when visiting Israel. (I have generally stayed in the same hotel for all these years, too.)
Yesterday took my heart away
So, you probably celebrated yesterday as Mother’s Day. I know that the Phillies managed to give away ladies pullovers to those women over the age of 15 who went to the game- despite the rain, and a lengthy delay. (Yes, the Phils won!)
Our hope is not yet lost (עוד לא אבדה תקוותנו)
Today is a most special day. 70 years ago (the Hebrew date, which is the 5th of Iyar, is the one that counts), the State of Israel was created. A dream that had been unfulfilled for almost 2000 years.
Continue reading Our hope is not yet lost (עוד לא אבדה תקוותנו)