What Is Yom Yerushalayim?
Yom Yerushalayim, translated as “Jerusalem Day”, is an Israeli national holiday that marks the reunification of Jerusalem. This event occurred in June 1967 during the Six-Day War, when Israeli forces gained control of the Old City and East Jerusalem, ending 19 years of division. The day symbolises the historical and cultural connection of the Jewish people to Jerusalem, particularly to sites such as the Western Wall.
The holiday was established by the Israeli Knesset as a national holiday in 1968. It is primarily observed in Israel and within Jewish communities around the world, reflecting the city’s profound significance in Jewish tradition and national identity. It is an occasion for reflection on historical events and the city’s contemporary status.
History and Origins of Yom Yerushalayim
The origins of Yom Yerushalayim are directly linked to the Six-Day War, which took place in June 1967. Prior to this conflict, Jerusalem had been divided since the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The western part of the city was under Israeli control, while the eastern part, including the Old City and its historical holy sites like the Western Wall, was under Jordanian administration.
During the Six-Day War, Israeli paratroopers captured the Old City on 7th June 1967, corresponding to the 28th of Iyar in the Hebrew calendar. This event was widely regarded in Israel as the “reunification” of Jerusalem. The Israeli Knesset, recognising the profound national and cultural significance of this occurrence, passed a law in 1968 establishing the 28th of Iyar as Yom Yerushalayim, a national holiday to commemorate this historic day.
How Yom Yerushalayim Is Celebrated
Yom Yerushalayim is celebrated predominantly in Israel with a range of national and cultural observances. The central celebration often involves a significant Flag March (Rikud Gallim) through the streets of Jerusalem, culminating at the Western Wall. Participants, many carrying Israeli flags, parade through the city, often accompanied by music and dancing.
Official state ceremonies are held, including a state memorial service for those who fell during the Six-Day War. Synagogues across Israel and in Jewish communities globally often incorporate special prayers of thanksgiving, such as Hallel (Psalms of praise), into their daily services. Educational institutions may hold assemblies or events to teach about the history and significance of Jerusalem. While a national holiday, it is typically an observance rather than a day when all businesses and schools are closed.
When Is Yom Yerushalayim?
Yom Yerushalayim is observed on the 28th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar each year. As the Hebrew calendar is lunisolar, its dates vary when aligned with the Gregorian calendar. Consequently, Yom Yerushalayim typically falls in late May or early June.
To avoid conflicting with the Sabbath, the observance of Yom Yerushalayim may be adjusted. If the 28th of Iyar falls on a Friday, the holiday is often moved to the preceding Thursday. If it falls on a Saturday, it is generally moved to the following Sunday. This adjustment ensures that the national day of celebration does not overlap with the religious observances of Shabbat.
Yom Yerushalayim Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | National Holiday / Observance |
| Date | 28th of Iyar (variable Gregorian, usually late May/early June) |
| Countries | 1 (Israel, with observance in Jewish communities globally) |
| Also known as | Jerusalem Day |
| Calendar system | Hebrew (lunisolar) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Yom Yerushalayim commemorate?
Yom Yerushalayim commemorates the reunification of Jerusalem under Israeli control following the Six-Day War in June 1967. It marks the recapture of the Old City and the Western Wall.
When is Yom Yerushalayim observed?
Yom Yerushalayim is observed annually on the 28th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar. Its Gregorian calendar date therefore varies, typically falling in late May or early June.
Is Yom Yerushalayim a public holiday in Israel?
While it is an Israeli national holiday, Yom Yerushalayim is generally an observance rather than a full public holiday with widespread closure of businesses and schools. State ceremonies and public events are common.