INDEPENDENCE DAY OBSERVED AND CELEBRATED By
sympatya.com, (May 14, 2005) -
Israel's Independence Day is celebrated on the fifth day of Iyar
according to the Hebrew calendar. It was on this day in the year
5708 (May 14, 1948) that the State of Israel was established.
Independence Day Eve ceremonies begin with the traditional
torch-lighting at Mt. Herzl. The next day, the President receives
the outstanding soldiers of the year in his residence, the
International Bible Contest is held, and the Israel Prizes are
awarded. Special thanksgiving prayers are recited in many synagogues
throughout the country and the world, and festive meals and
celebrations are held to commemorate the reestablishment of the
Jewish state in the Land of Israel after 1,900 years.
As soon as it gets dark on Independence Day Eve, the first volley
of fireworks can be seen and heard in the skies. These last until
late at night. Every Jewish city and municipality in Israel sets up
a stage or entertainment platforms where Israel's leading singers
give concerts. Afterward there is dancing with music until all hours
of the night.
There is something electrifying and special in the air on
Independence Eve. It seems as if everyone is outside, either
listening to the performers or watching the fireworks. The music and
laughter from Independence Day parties can be heard in every
neighborhood.
The atmosphere is very festive. Days before the holiday, the
municipalities and cities decorate the street lamps with Israeli
flags. The intersections are bedecked with flags and decorative
lights. On the afternoon of Independence Eve, people buy flowers to
decorate the living room. An Israeli flag is hung from the railing
of the balcony. Small Israeli flags are hung from car aerials. The
flags themselves are sold everywhere and street vendors do a brisk
business in selling Israeli flags of all sizes and shapes.
It is a time not just of happiness but also of awe: Despite the
threats of destruction coming from Iran seeking nuclear weapons,
despite threats from Syria armed with nerve gas weapons, despite
threats from Israel's many enemies in the world—we have survived
another year. When you come to think of it, that in itself is
awe-inspiring.
Praise the Lord! He is faithful to His word. Praise the Lord for
the miracle of Israel.
SCRIPTURE
For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I
will not remain quiet till her righteousness shines out lithe dawn,
her salvation like a blazing torch. The nations will see your
righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new
name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow. You will be a crown of
splendor in the Lord's hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your
God” (Isaiah 62:1–3).