Yom Yerushalayim (Jerusalem Day)
Yom Yerushalayim is a national holiday commemorating the reunification of Jerusalem and the liberation of the Western Wall in the Six-Day War.
Meaning & Significance
Yom Yerushalayim is a national holiday, commemorating the reunification of Jerusalem under Israeli rule, on the 28th of Iyar 5727 (1967), in the Six-Day War. On this day, IDF soldiers liberated the Old City and the Western Wall, thus ending the division of Jerusalem that had lasted 19 years.
The day expresses the Jewish yearning for Jerusalem over thousands of years, and the return of Israeli sovereignty over the Old City and the holy sites. On this day, national and religious ceremonies are held, and some recite Hallel. Many visit Jerusalem and the Western Wall, and the Flag Dance is held in the Old City.
Customs
- National and religious ceremonies.
- Flag Dance in the Old City.
- Pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Western Wall.
- Reciting Hallel (in some communities).
- Tachanun is not recited.
Laws & Halacha
Yom Yerushalayim is not a festival, and there is no prohibition of labor. The Chief Rabbinate established the recitation of Hallel (without a blessing, according to certain opinions). Tachanun is not recited. The laws and customs vary among communities.
Prayers & Liturgy
On Yom Yerushalayim, the Chief Rabbinate established the recitation of Hallel (without a blessing, according to certain opinions). Tachanun is not recited. There is a special prayer format, including Psalms and prayers for the peace of Jerusalem.