The Jewish connection to the Land of Israel spans thousands of years, dating back to the biblical era. The story of the Jewish people’s connection to the land is first mentioned in the Torah, where the patriarch Abraham is promised the land by God. This promise is later reiterated through the generations, culminating in the establishment of the Kingdom of Israel under Saul, David, and Solomon around 1000 BCE.
For Jews, the Land of Israel is not merely a geographic location, but a sacred space woven into their religious and cultural identity. The Kingdom of Israel, with its capitals in cities like Jerusalem, is seen as the foundation of Jewish civilization. Jerusalem, in particular, holds profound religious significance, being the site of the ancient Jewish Temple, the center of worship, and the spiritual heart of Judaism.
Throughout history, even during times of exile and dispersion, Jewish communities maintained a deep connection to the Land of Israel. Practices such as facing Jerusalem during prayer and reciting prayers like the “Next Year in Jerusalem” at the conclusion of the Passover Seder highlight this enduring bond.
The Jewish people’s relationship to Israel, therefore, is not just a matter of political or territorial claims but is deeply embedded in religious texts, rituals, and historical consciousness.