Jerusalem

In a touring day shortened by the approach of shabbat, we were out early and headed to the Western Wall, where we did NOT go to the usual prayer place at the Western Wall.  Instead, we toured a set of tunnels and excavations alongside the Wall, descending down to the level of one of the original roads and walking, underground, along the base of the Wall.  It was a walk we took on our trip two years ago but it was still quite impressive.  We ended up putting our notes in this section of the wall.

The end of the tunnel brought us to the Via Dolorosa, home to the stations of the Cross in Jesus' final moments.  We walked, learned, and eventually made our way to the Church of the Holy Seplicur (spelling?), site for many Christians of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.  As an observer to this Church, it was profound.  We climbed narrow and steep stairs to a room that contained the rock believed to have held the cross upon which Jesus was killed.  We watched elderly women climb underneath a table-like piece of furniture in order to kiss the rock and then cross themselves.  Watching them fulfill such a deep and meaningful religious act filled all of us observing with deep respect and humility.  Down on the main floor of the church, many others waited in line to go into the space of the resurrection.  They brought in candles and then lit more around the perimeter of the small chapel.  While I certainly do not believe the Christian narrative, I was surrounded by people who did; and for whom this experience was and would be a lifetime memory and opportunity.  That, I could understand and relate to on a very deep level.

We continued through the Arab shouk and then to the Jewish quarter for some shopping and lunch.  

In preparation for shabbat, we went next to Machane Yehuda, the outdoor food market, which was teeming with thousands of people preparing for shabbat.  It was, to be honest, a bit too overstimulating.  Rebecca and I ducked out soon.

For erev shabbat, we went to Kol Ha'nishama for services, then walked back to the hotel for an incredible buffet!

Shabbat shalom,

Marc and Marci