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Do you truly believe that you are not “forgetting” your Jerusalem, the City of Peace? As the Psalm 137 warns us (which I have just commented on), we are likely guilty of forgetting something essential: the memory of our roots and origins. We forget the unity of believers, we forget the place that represents us most, and perhaps, after reading this brief piece, we might “reconsider” some of our beliefs. We often think we are “exonerated,” but in reality, we all have responsibilities that we too often neglect. Forgetting Jerusalem not only has devastating repercussions on a global scale, but it also deeply affects us on a personal level. In an era of increasing instability, our connection to the Holy City is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the world and, by reflection, within our own souls. The wars and conflicts that afflict the Holy Land these days—the land of all believers in the One GOD of the Abrahamic Religions—are not distant events at all; they concern us intimately, fueling our societal and inner instability.
Fratricidal Conflict in Jerusalem: The Legacy of Isaac and Ishmael
The current conflict between Israel and Palestine is a struggle between brothers of the same Father. The clashes between Israel and Hamas/Palestine (which we simplify by associating them, not in fact or thought/ideology), reflect the ancient rivalry between the mothers of the brothers Isaac and Ishmael. These two brothers, who once played together, now see their descendants embroiled in a bitter and inhumane struggle. This war, rooted in ignorance and immaturity, unfortunately, demonstrates a deep disconnect from the shared history and the Divine Plan that unites rather than divides. The blood spilled in the Holy Land is not merely the result of a political dispute, but the fruit of the spiritual crisis we are experiencing today more than ever. We pay the price of forgetting our divine heritage (and Divine nature) and the responsibilities it entails… In fact, it is the children—our Israeli and Palestinian sons and daughters—who are paying the price, dying and living in terror. Woe to the warmongers, all of them without distinction!
Jerusalem Above All: The True Measure of the Abrahamic Faiths
If we do not place Jerusalem “above all,” we are not truly living according to the precepts prescribed by GOD. For Jews, tolerating war on the Holy Mount is a betrayal of the covenant with the Almighty. As Christians, allowing the place where Jesus prophesied and performed miracles to be engulfed in conflict without taking action, no matter how small, is a failure to embody His teachings. For Muslims, not being active in the pursuit of peace (SLM) for Palestine and in the liberation of the land beloved by Muhammad and all the prophets is a departure from the fundamental principles of Islam.
Isaiah 62:6-7: ‘On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have set watchmen; all day and all night they shall never be silent. You who put the LORD in remembrance, take no rest! And give Him no rest until He establishes Jerusalem and makes it a praise in the earth.’
Insights and Reflections
“Abracadabra” is more than just a magical word; it is a linguistic and cultural witness that has connected different civilizations over the millennia. Its possible Semitic origin, perhaps from Aramaic “avra kehdabra,” meaning “I will create as I speak,” underscores the creative and transformative power of the spoken word in ancient cultures. This expression embodies the belief that words can influence the physical world, a concept deeply rooted in many religious and spiritual traditions.
Over the centuries, “Abracadabra” has been adapted and interpreted in different languages and contexts, reflecting cultural interactions among Greeks, Romans, Jews and Christians. The use of “Abracadabra” in talismans and amulets shows how the word has been considered a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds, offering protection and blessing through its sound vibrations.
7 Simple Things You Could Do for Jerusalem
Actively Inform Yourself: Stay updated by reading reliable news, studies, and reports about Jerusalem. Understanding the situation clearly is essential for meaningful action.
Engage in Dialogue and Discussion: Talk with friends, religious leaders, scholars, and ordinary people to broaden your understanding and strengthen community ties. Every conversation can lead to new insights and strategies for supporting peace and stability in Jerusalem.
Practice Prayer and Meditation: Dedicate time to pray or meditate for Jerusalem and global peace. Spiritual practices can reinforce your commitment and inspire concrete actions, uniting believers in a shared intent for peace.
Educate and Raise Awareness: Organize or attend educational events and seminars about the situation in Jerusalem. Spreading knowledge can increase support for peace initiatives and keep Jerusalem at the forefront of global attention.
Promote Interfaith Dialogue Initiatives: Support and participate in meetings between different religious communities to work on peace initiatives for Jerusalem. Interfaith dialogue can help bridge divisions and foster greater understanding and cooperation.
Support Peace and Justice Policies: Advocate for and support public policies and decisions that promote peace and justice at both governmental and international levels. Pressure political leaders and institutions to ensure Jerusalem remains a symbol of peace and unity.
Foster Dialogue and Unity: Engage in conversations that promote mutual understanding and respect. Building bridges between communities and reducing tensions through dialogue is a powerful tool for reconciliation.