Yom Yerushalayim

Yom Yerushalayim is the commemoration of one of the greatest miracles of modern times. It is a celebration of not only the liberation of Jerusalem and Judea and Samaria, but it is a day to give thanks to Hashem for declaring to the world, that He is actively fighting on behalf of the Jewish people.

It is not a trivial statement when we say, “We accomplished in six days that which Joshua took seven years!” This is what we call a נס גלוי, a revealed miracle. I am old enough to clearly remember the fear and anxiety before the war. And I remember the intense joy when the world realized what had transpired.

The image of the Jew changed at that time. We were no longer a people that could be disrespected and humiliated. We were now a proud people with Jewish warriors, capable of defending our honor, and the honor of the G-d of Israel.

If there ever was a doubt as to whether the State of Israel was Divinely ordained, that doubt was removed with Yom Yerushalayim. Israel is a Kiddush Hashem, the sanctification of G-d’s Name. The scoffers can no longer say that G-d rejected the Jewish people. We are beginning to fulfill our purpose of being a “light unto the nations.”

Those who celebrate on this great day are to be praised. Those who don’t, simply need to open their eyes and realize just how fortunate we are. Yom Yerushalayim Sameach!