When is Jerusalem Day?
Yom Yerushalayim, Jerusalem Day, commemorates the reunification of Jerusalem after the Six-Day War.
Also known as Jerusalem Reunification Day, this officially recognised national holiday is celebrated on the 28th of Iyar in the Jewish calendar, which means it is celebrated close to Independence Day.
It is the final holiday of the “Israeli high holidays.”
History of Jerusalem Day
Following the creation of the state of Israel in 1948, it had been agreed that Jerusalem would be an international city for ten years, after which time the residents could vote for what country they wanted to join. However, Israel was attacked by Jordan in May 1948 resulting in parts of Jerusalem being under Israeli control and parts under Jordanian rule.
On June 6th 1967, the Six-day war began. On June 7th (28th of Iyar), the Jordanian-controlled part of Jerusalem was taken by Israeli forces. The war ended with a cease-fire on June 11th 1967.
The reunification of Jerusalem held immense importance for both Israel and the Jewish people. Without regaining control of East Jerusalem and the Old City, Jewish access to holy sites like the Western Wall and the Temple Mount would have been impossible.
Recognizing this historic event’s significance in May 1968, the Chief Rabbinate of Israel established the 28th of Iyar as a holiday to mark the unification of Jerusalem.
In 1998, the Israeli government passed the Jerusalem Day Law, making this day a national holiday.
Traditions of Jerusalem Day
The notable event that characterizes the day is the parade of flags, drawing thousands of participants who march from the city center to the Western Wall, proudly waving Israeli flags.
The parade follows a traditional route, departing from downtown and proceeding along King George and Agron streets before reaching the walls of the Old City. After this, the march splits, with females continuing through Jaffa Gate and males going through Damascus Gate before meeting up again at the Western Wall.
Additionally, a thanksgiving rally at the Merkaz Harav Yeshiva gathers prominent Israeli leaders, including the President, Prime Minister, Chief of Staff, Mayor of Jerusalem and Chief Rabbis.
A day of remembrance
Coinciding with Jerusalem Day, another significant commemoration takes place—the Day of Remembrance for Ethiopian Jews who perished on their journey to Israel. This day serves as a solemn remembrance of the sacrifices and hardships endured by Ethiopian Jews as they sought refuge and dreamed of reaching Jerusalem. A memorial ceremony is held at Mount Herzl, honoring the 1,388 Ethiopian Jews who lost their lives in the Sudanese desert.
Note: Like other Jewish holidays, Yom Yerushalayim will begin at sundown on the previous day.
