Temple Mount
Trip Start
May 13, 2006
1
14
25
Trip End
Jun 13, 2006
Jerusalem,
Israel
Sunday, May 21, 2006
I was a bit apprehensive as we walked through the Muslim quarter of Jerusalem toward the Dome. I had heard some stories about how they treat 'Westerners' rudely and hassle them because it is the only time they can.
However, I was surprised when we went through the check point (think airport) to get to the Temple Mount. Nothing - no hassle - not rude at all. I got to the Dome and there were people milling around and tourists.
I was impressed by the Dome - the Muslim's third most holy site. It was intimidating and beautiful. I walked around the Dome and watched as the people went inside (some go to pray but many pray at the mosque behind the Dome. I wanted to go inside but was rebuffed at the door. I was frustrated that I could not go in. In typical Westerner fashion I said, "Why, don't they let non-Muslims in there? They should charge a fee and make some money from the tourists." Later as I was walking around the mount I reconsidered my position.
I have been fighting the touristy feel that the Christian holy sites have. They have not only "captured" the sanctity of the holy site or relic but have made it into a money making endeavor - Capitalism meets Jesus. It cheapens the experience.
I was told that the Dome of the Rock had been closed since the al-Aqsa Intifada began in September 2000.
Me at the Dome
Intifada is an Arabic word that stands for "shaking off" or "shivering because of fear or illness". It also means "abrupt and sudden waking up from sleep or unconcerned status." Politically, the word symbolizes the Palestinian uprising against the Israeli occupation. They want their holy places to be Holy Sites not tourist traps - isn't that the point? While I still don't understand all the aspects to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict I understand that there are people on both sides that are suffering and oppressed. Who at fault, I don't know. How can I respond? I don't know but being here put this issue right in front of my face.
I will be out of touch for a few days as we head south toward the Negev region. We will be staying a few nights in Southern Israel and hit the Dead Sea on the way back to Jerusalem on Wednesday. So I sign off and will update you when I get back.
Two notes: I have found a fan. The hotel had them and I just found out about it (right before we leave for a few days). Also, we "discovered" a wireless signal in the courtyard of the hotel here so I don't have to walk the km over to the college to email (again the day before we leave). I don't know how long it will last but I type this sitting outside in Old City Jerusalem listening to the sounds of the city - Arabic and Hebrew are all around. It is a nice night...
Comments
A bit jealous
Hey big driver donkey man,
You forgot to take your mentor!
I've enjoyed the travel reports. The high point had to have been good ol' Salina, KS, right? But sounds like Israel's pretty good too.
Great reflections, Mike: both entertaining and moving. Thanks!
In my prayers,
Steve Thulson
hi son - good introspective inklings...
hi son,
we are really enjoying your daily blog entries, although your mom wells up every time she reads them. it helps us feel connected to you while you are away. we are always moved by the stories of those who have so little in a world that has so much and how our worldviews can be so different. The pictures help us get a small glimpse of your experience. i am really enjoying your introspective tone and how the nature of paradox is being stirred in your reflections of how life presents itself - when we are awake and paying attention. You seem to have adopted a nice balance in your way of being present there. Just enough conceptualizing to bring some meaning to what is going on in front of you but not so much that you miss the essence of the experience.
we cannot help but worry a little about you and are glad you are safe. we are very happy for you and extremely proud. we miss you and love you...
dad
book recomendation
I really enjoy reading Thomas Friedman. He is the middle east expert for the NY Times. His book, 'From Beruit to Jerusalem' He was an American Jewish media person covering Lebanon. I really enjoy his insight. I would like to ask people on the street what it was like there before 1945. I am curious.
What is the dome? and the rock?
What are the dome and the rock about?
Hooray for the fan!!!!
Mike- I'm so thrilled that you finally have a fan. I think of you sweaty and without sound and it makes me sad. Now I can picture you cool and peaceful!!! Can you bring that fan to London? As always I love reading the way you are processing your experiences. Have you had much time with Jenni and Matt. The girls miss you so much- we are now praying for you during the day instead of at bedtime. When I pray for you before bed they start crying- and then they can't fall asleep- rebekah has 3 pictues of you under her pillow. You are missed!!!
Dr. Ramsey!
Hey, Dr. Ramsey! Sorry I haven't written yet...my computer has had more issues...ahhh! Anyway--It's great to read about your journey in the Holy Land. I'm proud of you, Mike, for taking it all so seriously. It sounds like you are having a wonderful experience. I look forward to hearing all about it when you return.
It's been quiet around here without you and the fam. Freng and I are in need of some serious Ramsey time. You can buy me a Chic-Fila sandwhich when you get home! Also- sad to say, but I have not played Tiger Woods Golf since you've been gone. Part of it has to do with nostalgia (can't play without you) and the other part has something to do with the Sung Wook Chungster. Freng and I need you in that class. By the way- Freng has taken over your parking spot...you'll need to flex your Ramsey muscles to get it back.
You know, Mike, I really miss you. In fact, I've missed you sooooooooo much that I wrote a poem about you during my quiet time this morning. I'd sure like to share it with you.
Mike.
He's so nice. He travels the world.
When he's gone I feel an empty place inside my heart.
Jesus is my forever friend.
Mike is my forever buddy.
I like Mike.
Ummm, I'm tired. Safe travels, my friend. I look forward to your return.
Blessings,
weaver