Jerusalem, The Heart of the World

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Jerusalem, Yerushalem, or Al-Quds is not just any old land but the oldest land on earth that unites three different religions. It is referred as “The Heart of the World”. This land unites Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Each religion finds Jerusalem sacred in its own way. Coming from this Holy Land, I have observed the significance of Jerusalem to these three monotheistic religions.
Christianity
Christians in Jerusalem fall into a category where they see themselves as a bridge that connects Muslims and Jews together by their faith. In the Old City of Jerusalem, or the Heart of the City, lies Via Dolorosa, the street where it is believed that Jesus Christ walked carrying the cross on his way to The Church of the Holy Sepulchre before his sacrifice. It is said that Jesus Christ had suffered though crucified and sacrificed himself for not only Christians, but Muslims and Jews too. This street lies in between the Jewish quarter and the Muslim quarter. The location itself connects the religions together. It is also believed that this street brings peace upon these two religions or at least should.
Another thing that connects Christians to Jerusalem is The Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The significance of this church marks the place of death for Jesus and where his grave lies. Not all Christians believe that this church is where Christ was sacrificed and buried, but it still contains symbols for them.
Now a days on holidays such as Easter, Christians walk from the Via Dolorosa to The Church of the Holy Sepulchre as a reminder of Christ’s pilgrimage. Parades are made each year where people march together praying, dancing, and singing.
Islam
As we walk to the right from Via Dolorosa Street, we enter the Muslim quarter. In the Mus...

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... between the cracks of the wall. In the notes, they make wishes, ask for miracle, or ask for answers they need for the unknown. The wall is also where they face to pray.
Judaism has Hanukkah as the most sacred holiday. Hanukkah is when Jews celebrate freedom and victory. In Jerusalem, this holiday has more meaning. A festival is made where all Jews get together to celebrate as they light torches.

The Heart of the World is a beautiful place to visit. Even though conflicts exist between these religions, people still have hope for peace. If peace is created in this land, the Holy Land would be complete. Every religious group would celebrate with each other accepting and appreciating each other. Jerusalem contains many sacred places, still several unknown. It doesn’t matter on one’s religion, everyone can find something they can relate to in The Heart of the World.

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