Jerusalem. Jerusalem Day. Yom Yerushalayim.
It seems much of the world is starting to believe a narrative that is working hard to rewrite history. We have said it before. Jewish presence in Jerusalem goes back over 2000 years.
This photo of the Western Wall is dated 1914.
Elia’s Shop in the Old City Christian Quarter has dozens of fascinating photos from the past.
The Tower of David Museum has a new photography exhibit Jerusalem 1900-1950. It is not political, and aims to focus on everyday life in Jerusalem, in the early 20th century. Only photographers living in Jerusalem are presented, not the thousands of visitors who came for a short time. It was only after living in Jerusalem for a while that I started taking and sharing photos, of the daily life, the scenes the media never showed.
In honor of Jerusalem Day, a quick look at a four scenes that sum up why there should be no question why we should celebrate.
Palestine was occupied by the British during the British Mandate from 1917-1948. Jerusalem was under British military control.
In the 1940’s much of the area outside the walls was still not developed. The pillbox in Rechavia stood out, not like today.
In 1948, the Jordanians took over the Old City. All Jews were forced from their homes. From the tops of the Old City Walls, snipers would shoot at anyone venturing into No Man’s Land below.
The Jewish synagogues in the Old City were destroyed in 1948.
From 1948-1967, no Jews were allowed in Old City. We should go back to those conditions?
The Hurva Synagogue, the largest one in Old City, was only recently rebuilt.
There are some who are upset that the Flag Dance is to going to celebrate the end Jordanian occupation.
I am on my way out to once again enjoy the music and the dancing. It is good to see children, families and old people filling the streets of Jerusalem once again.
