Super Busy Week

But it always seems to be like that the closer we get to going home time.  

Israel has been celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot.  We are incredibly thankful for the opportunity to be in Israel during this time.  The Jews build booths or Sukkots and for one week live in them - some even sleep in theirs.  They can be incredibly fancy or just a simple tent in the yard.  They do this as they reflect back on that time when their nation came out of Egypt and lived in tents in the wilderness for 40 years.  It is a joyful time with singing, street parties (yes we went to several - I told you it was a busy week!), and much celebration.

There are even booths at restaurants, the city hall (largest in Jerusalem), and at the Western Wall.  The Jewish men go to the Western Wall and wave branches of 3 different trees tied together as they pray. 

On the way to the Wall.  Not sure who the guy is in the middle - but he was someone important.

Gathering at the Wall

3 Species of trees and the citron (lemon)

The largest Sukkot at the Wall and people eating inside.

 

Family Sukkot on the roof of their house.

And hovering right over the Western Wall, where the Temple once stood, the Moslem Mosque of the Dome of the Rock.

Many areas of the Old City are beautiful

75,000 people from all over the world marched in a parade this past week to honor Israel.  Basicly, they just said "Hey Israel!  We love you!"  It was pretty awesome and a joy to behold.  We are glad we were off and could attend.

 

Yep!  Military recruits - Kids... but they grow up to look like the next picture

You have to be crazy to mess with Israeli soldiers!

 

The strongest ally and friend that Israel has - the SIGN not the flag!

The Lion of Judah!  Israel's only hope...