Yom Yerushalayim, also known as Jerusalem Day or Jerusalem Reunification Day will take place this Sunday night and Monday. Yom Yerushalayim is the day that the State of Israel reclaimed the Old City of Jerusalem in 1967 and once again made it the undivided and eternal capitol of the Jewish people. 

Even though Yom Yerushalayim is not an official National holiday (schools and places of business are open), it is still celebrated as a religious holiday. Special prayers are added to the service including Hallel (the Thanksgiving prayer). Late in the day, there is a big parade in Jerusalem which is attended by students of all ages who will travel from throughout Israel to be in the city of Jerusalem for this momentous occasion.

Although Yom Yerushalayim is only celerated once a year, Jews throughout the world pray for the Peace of Jerusalem every day of the year.

In the Shmoneh Esrei/ Amida we recite the blessing of “V’liyerushalayim Ircha…” where we ask God to return to Jerusalem, dwell in it, rebuild it as an eternal structure and establish in it the throne of King David.

In Birkat HaMazon, Grace after Meals we recite “Uvenei Yerushalayim Ir HaKodesh…” May You rebuild Jerusalem the holy city in our lifetimes…

At the end of the wedding ceremony we sing “Im Eshkachech Yerushalayim”, If I Forget You. O Jerusalem…

And of course, at the conclusion of Yom Kippur and as we end the Pesach seder we say “L’Shana HaBa B’Yerushalayim”, Next Year in Jerusalem!

Let’s focus on praying for a safe, peaceful and fully rebuilt Jerusalem speedily in our days!