PEACE with Penny

Jerusalem 101: The Puzzle — Part IV

Jerusalem

What do I mean by Jerusalem the Puzzle? Jerusalem is like a Russian nesting doll — each doll is unique, impacted by the next doll’s proximity and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The geographical puzzle piece is sacred to three religions — Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Not that each of these individual faiths can… Continue reading Jerusalem 101: The Puzzle — Part IV

Concerns that Israel is Facing the Third Intifada are Put on Hold For Now

Jerusalem

Thankfully the resounding answer to my question in my last blog, “Jerusalem 101 Part III: Friday, Will Muslim and Jewish Prayers End in Violence?” is NO.  After the weeks of violence, and the metal detectors and cameras being removed — the following Friday night, important to both Jews and Muslims passed quietly. Thank God, the… Continue reading Concerns that Israel is Facing the Third Intifada are Put on Hold For Now

Jerusalem 101 Part III: Friday, will Muslim and Jewish Prayers End in Violence?

Jerusalem

Just when I thought I would speak about Jerusalem the Puzzle, there’s been more conflict, rioting and killings. Israel reopened access to the Noble Sanctuary after two days investigating the murder of Israeli police by a Palestinian. The metal detectors installed for safety were also taken down due to Palestinian demands. Thursday the Mufti of… Continue reading Jerusalem 101 Part III: Friday, will Muslim and Jewish Prayers End in Violence?

Jerusalem 101, Will the Tinderbox Catch Fire? Part II

Israel, the Western Wall

Last week I blogged about Jerusalem 101, Trying to Understand a Complicated City – Part I  This week it was my intention to continue on with Jerusalem 101, Jerusalem the Puzzle – Part II. Now barring any more new calamities, it will be Part III. On Friday, two Israelis were murdered. Increased tensions are assured… Continue reading Jerusalem 101, Will the Tinderbox Catch Fire? Part II

Jerusalem 101, Trying to Understand a Complicated City — Part I

Israel, the Western Wall

If I forget thee, O Jerusalem let my right hand forget her cunning. Bible Jerusalem — Yerushalayim the Hebrew name originates from two words — Ir and Shalem. Ir means city. Shalem comes from Shalom, which means Peace. City of Peace. Sounds great — what happened?1  My intention in writing this was to try to… Continue reading Jerusalem 101, Trying to Understand a Complicated City — Part I