Day 5
This morning brought a later start for our group--7:45 am. This was certainly a relief for us college students. Our first destination was Israel’s Independence Hall in Tel Aviv. We saw a historical movie of Tel Aviv’s creation out of sand dunes in 1909. We were led to the hall in which Ben-Gurion and Golda Meir, among other dignitaries signed Israel’s Declaration of Independence in 1948. This pivotal thirty-two minute meeting was broadcast throughout the world declaring Israel’s independence. After we learned about Israel’s tumultuous ride to independence, we continued our journey to Jerusalem. Upon our arrival at the Haas Promenade on the outskirts of Jerusalem, we learned about the history of the Temples of the Old City and the difficulty many rulers faced in conquering Jerusalem.
We went to the German Colony for lunch. We enjoyed a variety of items, including delicious hot chocolate, burgers with unique Israeli sauces, gelato, gnocchi, and sabich (an amazing pita, eggplant, egg, and veggie concoction). Our delicious lunch was followed by a stroll through the Mamilla Mall built to replicate the ancient markets located outside the Old City. We entered the Old City of Jerusalem through the Jaffa Gate. The Old City was built completely out of stone including all buildings and roads. Contrary to our imaginings, cars could access the city and people live and work within its walls. We discussed how the city was built anew each time a ruler conquered it while seeing archaeological sites such as Roman columns. We also stopped at the Hurva synagogue and learned that the unique white dome took many years to complete after the synagogue was bombed in the War of Independence.
Upon reaching the end of the Jewish quarter, we climbed up to the rooftops where we viewed the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. In preparation for our experience at the Western Wall, we went to a scenic overlook giving us the opportunity to gaze at the vast archaeological excavation that is paused by its controversial proximity to the Western Wall. Upon reaching the barrier of the Western Wall, we separated by gender and donned our conservative clothing, including skirts and yarmulkes. This experience was different for all of us. Some placed notes on the wall, some took pictures, some kissed and prayed. The men had the opportunity to dance and experience the tradition of wearing tefillin. Everyone’s reactions were unique; we all drew our own significance from this majestic Jewish landmark.
Our walk concluded as the sun set and we departed through the Dung Gate out of the Old City. After dinner at the Caesar Hotel, we had a guest speaker from Masa Israel Journey, an organization for additional opportunities for college and post-grad students to study, volunteer and intern in Israel. In preparation for tomorrow’s visit to Yad Vashem, we shared personal stories of Holocaust survivors and the effects of antisemitism in our lives.
Shalom for now.
