SUNSET TUESDAY, MAY 31: The youngest Jewish holiday to date begins tonight, as Jews in Israel mark Yom Yerushalayim—otherwise known as Jerusalem Day—and the unification of the Old City. Since 1998, Jews in Israel have spent this minor Jewish holiday giving thanks for victory in the 6-day war that ended in June of 1967. Some Jews today recollect the massive bloodshed of war-torn Jerusalem and, therefore, are hesitant to celebrate; outside of Israel, this holiday is hardly recognized. Still, the majority of Jews in Jerusalem overlook the past fighting and focus on Defense Minister Moshe Dayan’s famous words from June of 1967: “We have united Jerusalem, the divided capital of Israel.” (Wikipedia has details.) Today’s observances include speeches, programs and parades.
Originally published at readthespirit.com, an online journal covering religion and cultural diversity.
