Jerusalem is a city that wars and conflicts for thousands of years have targeted. It’s no wonder why Jerusalem has become such a holy place for many religions. The city has been at the center of Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions since the dawn of civilization.
You may be surprised to know that even though there is only one mosque in Jerusalem, it is considered by Muslims to be one of the holiest cities on earth!
Religion that considers Jerusalem a Holy Land…
Judaism:
- The Historical and Spiritual Center for the Jewish People
- The Western Wall: A Sacred Remnant of the Ancient Jewish Temple
Christianity:
- Jerusalem’s Association with the Life, Crucifixion, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ
- The Church of the Holy Sepulchre: A Pilgrimage Destination for Christians
Islam:
- Jerusalem as the Third Holiest City in Islam
- Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock: Prominent Islamic Sites in Jerusalem
Baha’i Faith:
- Recognition of Jerusalem as a Holy City by Baha’is
- The Baha’i World Centre: Significance and Proximity to Jerusalem
Samaritanism:
- Samaritan Connection to Mount Gerizim near Jerusalem
- The Significance of Mount Gerizim in Samaritan Tradition
Druze:
- Jerusalem’s Relevance in Druze Faith and Tradition
- Druze Pilgrimages and Spiritual Practices Associated with Jerusalem
Rastafari:
- Rastafarian Perspective on Jerusalem
- Jerusalem as a Symbol of African Unity and the Promised Land
Esoteric Christianity (some traditions):
- Esoteric Interpretations of Jerusalem’s Spiritual Significance
- Mystical and Symbolic Associations with Jerusalem in Esoteric Christianity
Raelism:
- Raelian Beliefs Regarding Jerusalem
- Extraterrestrial Connections and Spiritual Encounters in Jerusalem, According to Raelism
Mandaeism:
- Mandaeans’ Sacred Connection to Jerusalem
- Jerusalem’s Role in Mandaean Cosmology and Rituals
Sufism (certain schools):
- Sufi Perspectives on Jerusalem’s Holiness
- Spiritual Practices and Pilgrimages of Sufis in Jerusalem
Yazidism:
- Yazidi Beliefs Related to Jerusalem
- Symbolic and Historical Connections of Yazidism with Jerusalem
Gnosticism (some traditions):
- Gnostic Interpretations of Jerusalem’s Spiritual Significance
- Mystical and Allegorical Associations of Jerusalem in Gnostic Traditions
Manichaeism:
- Manichaean Views on Jerusalem
- The Influence of Light and Darkness in Manichaean Beliefs about Jerusalem
Some New Age and Esoteric Belief Systems:
- Jerusalem’s Attraction to New Age and Esoteric Practitioners
- The City’s Energetic and Spiritual Significance in Various Alternative Spiritualities
1. Judaism
With an unbroken history spanning millennia, Jerusalem is considered the heart and soul of Judaism. The Western Wall, a remnant of the ancient Jewish Temple, is the focal point of Jewish prayers and pilgrimage.
Jerusalem holds immense significance for Judaism, acting as a spiritual and historical center for the Jewish people. For Jews around the world, Jerusalem represents a deep connection to their religious and cultural roots.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Judaism?
Jerusalem is considered the holiest city in Judaism due to its rich historical and religious heritage. It is revered as the place where King Solomon built the First Temple and where the Second Temple stood until its destruction in 70 CE. The Western Wall, the only remaining part of the Second Temple, holds great importance as a place of prayer and reflection.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Judaism?
The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is a prominent site in Jerusalem where Jews gather to pray, leave notes with their prayers in the crevices of the wall, and connect with their spiritual roots. It is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of the enduring Jewish faith.
Example: For a practicing Jew, visiting the Western Wall in Jerusalem is a deeply meaningful experience. Imagine being surrounded by fellow worshippers, feeling the ancient stones beneath your fingertips as you offer your prayers, and being aware of the centuries of Jewish history that have unfolded in this very place. It’s a tangible connection to the past and a reminder of the enduring faith of the Jewish people.
2. Christianity
For Christians, Jerusalem is a hallowed place where significant events from the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ unfolded. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre draws devout followers from all over the world.
Jerusalem holds immense importance for Christians as it is intricately linked to the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The city is filled with sacred sites that bear witness to the key events of Christianity.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Christianity?
Jerusalem is regarded as a sacred city in Christianity due to its association with Jesus Christ. It is where Jesus entered triumphantly on Palm Sunday, where the Last Supper took place, and where Jesus was crucified and resurrected. These events hold profound spiritual and theological significance for Christians.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Christianity?
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians in Jerusalem. It is believed to be the place where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. Pilgrims from various Christian denominations come to pray and reflect on the central mysteries of their faith.
Example: Imagine standing within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, surrounded by ornate decorations and the smell of incense. You approach the Stone of Anointing, where tradition holds that the body of Jesus was prepared for burial. A profound sense of awe and reverence fills the air as you connect with the story of Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. It is a powerful reminder of the core beliefs that underpin the Christian faith.
3. Islam
Jerusalem holds the third-holiest place in Islam, symbolizing the Night Journey of Prophet Muhammad. The Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock stand as iconic religious landmarks.
In Islam, Jerusalem carries significant religious and historical value. It is intimately connected to the miraculous Night Journey of the Prophet Muhammad and is home to prominent Islamic landmarks that inspire devotion among Muslims worldwide.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Islam?
Jerusalem holds importance in Islam primarily due to its association with the Night Journey of the Prophet Muhammad. According to Islamic tradition, the Prophet Muhammad traveled from Mecca to Jerusalem and ascended to the heavens from the Al-Aqsa Mosque during the Isra and Mi’raj, a miraculous night journey. This journey represents a spiritual milestone in Islamic history.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Islam?
The Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in Jerusalem, is one of the most revered Islamic sites. It is believed to be the place where the Prophet Muhammad led the other prophets in prayer during his Night Journey. Adjacent to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Dome of the Rock is a magnificent shrine that enshrines the rock from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended to the heavens.
Example: Joining the prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem during the holy month of Ramadan. The soothing sounds of recitation echo through the courtyard as Muslims from diverse backgrounds come together to worship. The golden dome of the Rock gleams in the sunlight, serving as a visual reminder of the sacred journey undertaken by the Prophet Muhammad. This experience fosters a deep connection to the Islamic faith and the historical significance of Jerusalem.
4. Baha’i Faith
The Baha’i Faith views Jerusalem as a sacred location, central to their faith. The Baha’i World Centre in Haifa and Akko, adjacent to Jerusalem, plays a vital role in their spiritual beliefs.
Jerusalem holds a special place in the Baha’i Faith, symbolizing spiritual significance and serving as the spiritual and administrative center of the Baha’i community. The Baha’i World Centre, located near Jerusalem, serves as a hub for their religious activities.
Why is Jerusalem significant in the Baha’i Faith?
Jerusalem is regarded as a holy city in the Baha’i Faith due to its association with important figures and events within the faith. Baha’is consider it a place of spiritual power and the future fulfillment of their prophecies.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in the Baha’i Faith?
The Baha’i World Centre, situated in Haifa and Akko, neighboring Jerusalem, is an important pilgrimage destination for Baha’is. The Shrine of the Báb, the burial place of the Baha’i faith’s founder, and the beautiful terraced gardens surrounding it, exemplify the spiritual essence of the Baha’i Faith.
Example: Imagine walking through the stunning terraced gardens of the Baha’i World Centre in Haifa, with the view of the Mediterranean Sea stretching out before you. The serenity and tranquility of the surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere conducive to contemplation and reflection. Baha’is from around the world gather here to deepen their faith, connect with fellow believers, and experience the spiritual essence of Jerusalem’s influence on their religion.
5. Samaritanism
Samaritans consider Mount Gerizim, near Jerusalem, their holiest site. They believe this location is where God instructed Abraham to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice.
Mount Gerizim holds immense significance for the Samaritan community, representing a sacred site tied to their foundational beliefs. Samaritans believe that this is the place where God instructed Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac, making it their holiest site.
Why is Mount Gerizim significant in Samaritanism?
Mount Gerizim is considered the holiest site in Samaritanism due to its association with the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac. Samaritans believe that it was on this mountain that God commanded Abraham to offer Isaac as a sacrifice, and they consider it the designated place of worship.
Where can we witness the significance of Mount Gerizim in Samaritanism?
Mount Gerizim, located near the city of Nablus in the West Bank, serves as the primary place of worship for the Samaritan community. It is the site of their central religious ceremonies, including the annual Passover sacrifice.
Example: Imagine being present on Mount Gerizim during the Samaritans’ Passover celebration. The mountain echoes with prayers, chants, and the sound of a shofar being blown. Samaritans dressed in traditional garments gather to reenact the ancient rituals and commemorate their ancestors’ journey. It is a unique experience that allows you to witness the deep-rooted faith and historical traditions of the Samaritan community.
6. Druze
Jerusalem holds historical significance for the Druze community, as they believe it was once an important center for their faith.
The Druze community perceives Jerusalem as a city of historical importance, linking it to their spiritual heritage. While their primary holy sites are found elsewhere, Jerusalem remains a place of historical significance for the Druze.
Why is Jerusalem historically significant to the Druze community?
Jerusalem holds historical significance for the Druze community due to its connection to pivotal events in their religious history. The city is believed to have played a role in the early development and dissemination of the Druze faith.
Where can we witness the historical significance of Jerusalem for the Druze community?
While the Druze community’s primary religious sites are located in other regions, exploring the historical aspects of Jerusalem, such as visiting the Druze Quarter in the Old City, can provide insights into the community’s past connection to the city.
Example: Wandering through the vibrant and bustling streets of the Druze Quarter in Jerusalem’s Old City. The aromatic scent of Middle Eastern cuisine fills the air as you interact with friendly locals and witness their unique cultural practices. While not the primary spiritual center for the Druze, this experience offers a glimpse into their historical presence in Jerusalem and the rich tapestry of the city’s diverse religious communities.
7. Rastafari
Rastafarians regard Jerusalem as a symbol of their spiritual home and the return to their African roots.
Jerusalem holds symbolic importance for Rastafarians, representing a spiritual home and a connection to their African heritage. It serves as a powerful symbol of hope, redemption, and the fulfillment of their religious beliefs.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Rastafari?
Rastafarians associate Jerusalem with the idea of a promised land, a place of liberation and return to their African roots. It embodies their longing for freedom, justice, and the restoration of their true identity.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Rastafari?
While physical pilgrimage to Jerusalem is not a common practice for Rastafarians, the concept of Jerusalem as a metaphorical and spiritual destination can be seen in their rituals, music, and artistic expressions.
Example: Attending a Rastafarian gathering, known as a Nyabinghi, where music, chanting, and drumming fill the air. The colors of the Ethiopian flag, representing the Rastafarian movement, are proudly displayed. Amidst the fervor and energy, you hear the lyrics of a reggae song proclaiming the longing for Zion, the spiritual equivalent of Jerusalem. It is a profound expression of the Rastafarian belief in the eventual return to their spiritual home.
8. Esoteric Christianity (some traditions)
Certain esoteric Christian traditions find mystical connections to Jerusalem, attributing deeper spiritual meanings to its sites.
Within esoteric Christian traditions, Jerusalem is associated with mystical and symbolic interpretations, offering deeper spiritual insights and connections to their faith. These traditions uncover hidden spiritual truths and seek profound understandings within the religious context of Jerusalem.
Why is Jerusalem significant in esoteric Christianity?
Esoteric Christian traditions view Jerusalem as a realm of spiritual revelation and transformation. It is believed to contain hidden meanings and sacred energies that facilitate spiritual awakening and communion with the divine.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in esoteric Christianity?
Esoteric Christian teachings and practices associated with Jerusalem can be found in various mystical and contemplative traditions. These may include meditative exercises, visualization practices, and symbolic interpretations of Jerusalem’s sacred sites.
Example: Imagine participating in a mystical Christian retreat that focuses on exploring the esoteric aspects of Jerusalem. Through guided meditations and contemplative exercises, you delve into the deeper spiritual meanings associated with Jerusalem’s landmarks. The experience opens up new dimensions of understanding, enabling you to perceive the spiritual truths embedded within the city’s sacred sites.
9. Raelism
Raelists, followers of the UFO-based religious movement, consider Jerusalem as an important center for their beliefs.
Within the Raelist religious movement, Jerusalem holds significance as a central location associated with their beliefs in extraterrestrial life and the teachings of their spiritual leader, Rael. They perceive Jerusalem as a site of spiritual encounters and revelations.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Raelism?
Raelists believe that Jerusalem is a place where significant encounters with extraterrestrial beings have occurred. They consider it a sacred location where their spiritual leader, Rael, received messages from these beings.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Raelism?
While specific locations in Jerusalem may not be designated as holy sites in Raelism, the city serves as a focal point for Raelist gatherings, conferences, and activities centered around their beliefs in extraterrestrial contact.
Example: Imagine attending a Raelist conference in Jerusalem, where followers from different parts of the world gather to discuss their shared beliefs in extraterrestrial life and the spiritual teachings of Rael. Presentations and workshops delve into the experiences and messages believed to have originated in Jerusalem, creating a unique atmosphere of curiosity and exploration.
10. Mandaeism
Jerusalem is considered a holy place by Mandaeans, who follow the teachings of John the Baptist.
Mandaeans, adherents of an ancient Gnostic religion, revere Jerusalem as a sacred place due to its association with their central figure, John the Baptist. They consider it a site connected to their religious heritage and the teachings of their prophet.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Mandaeism?
Mandaeans believe that Jerusalem is a place where significant events related to John the Baptist took place. They consider it a crucial location in their religious history and spiritual journey.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Mandaeism?
While there may not be specific temples or rituals associated with Mandaeism in Jerusalem, understanding the historical and spiritual connection between the city and John the Baptist can provide insights into the importance of Jerusalem for Mandaeans.
Example: Studying the sacred texts of Mandaeism, which recount the life and teachings of John the Baptist, in the vibrant streets of Jerusalem. The ancient stories come alive as you explore the historical context and imagine the significant role the city played in the religious narratives of Mandaeism. This experience deepens your understanding of the spiritual significance of Jerusalem for Mandaeans.
11. Sufism (certain schools)
Some Sufi orders hold Jerusalem in high esteem due to its spiritual significance within Islam.
Certain Sufi orders, following mystical Islamic traditions, hold Jerusalem in high regard due to its spiritual significance within the broader Islamic faith. They perceive Jerusalem as a place of spiritual elevation, divine presence, and mystical revelations.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Sufism?
Sufi practitioners view Jerusalem as a place where spiritual energies are concentrated, enabling seekers to experience heightened states of divine love and presence. It is associated with spiritual ascension and the attainment of mystical knowledge.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Sufism?
The spiritual significance of Jerusalem in Sufism can be observed in the practices and gatherings of certain Sufi orders that emphasize pilgrimage to the city and engagement in spiritual practices within its sacred spaces.
Example: Imagine participating in a Sufi whirling ceremony held in Jerusalem, where practitioners engage in a form of ecstatic dance accompanied by mesmerizing music and chants. As the participants spin in meditative motion, they seek to transcend the mundane realm and connect with the divine presence believed to be heightened in Jerusalem. The experience offers a glimpse into the mystical traditions of Sufism and the spiritual significance attributed to the city.
12. Yazidism
Yazidis, an ancient religious community, revere Jerusalem as a holy city.
Yazidis, an ancient religious community with a distinct belief system, consider Jerusalem as a holy city and hold it in reverence. They associate Jerusalem with their spiritual traditions and consider it a sacred center within their religious worldview.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Yazidism?
Yazidis perceive Jerusalem as a site where divine manifestations and significant spiritual events have occurred. It holds a central place in their religious cosmology and is considered a focal point of their spiritual heritage.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Yazidism?
While there may not be specific Yazidi temples or rituals in Jerusalem, understanding the role of Jerusalem within Yazidi belief systems can shed light on its significance for this ancient religious community.
Example: Encountering a Yazidi elder who shares stories passed down through generations about the spiritual importance of Jerusalem. As they recount tales of mystical encounters and divine revelations associated with the city, you gain a deeper appreciation for the sacred connection Yazidis hold with Jerusalem and the profound impact it has on their spiritual beliefs.
13. Gnosticism (some traditions)
Certain Gnostic traditions associate Jerusalem with profound spiritual symbolism and enlightenment.
In certain Gnostic traditions, Jerusalem carries deep spiritual symbolism and is associated with the quest for enlightenment and the pursuit of hidden knowledge. It represents a spiritual realm of transformation and awakening.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Gnosticism?
Within Gnosticism, Jerusalem is seen as a symbolic city representing the journey of the soul toward spiritual liberation and illumination. It embodies the struggle between the material world and the divine realm, serving as a metaphor for the inner path of awakening.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Gnosticism?
The significance of Jerusalem in Gnosticism can be explored through the study of Gnostic texts, scriptures, and mystical interpretations that delve into the deeper meanings associated with the city’s symbolic role.
Example: Delving into the mystical writings of Gnostic texts, such as the Gospel of Thomas or the Gospel of Philip, within the spiritual ambiance of Jerusalem. As you immerse yourself in these profound teachings, you begin to perceive the layers of symbolic meaning associated with Jerusalem as a representation of the spiritual journey, the inner struggles, and the potential for divine revelation.
14. Manichaeism
Historically, Manichaeans attributed spiritual importance to Jerusalem in their religious beliefs.
In the historical context of Manichaeism, an ancient religious belief system, Jerusalem held spiritual importance as a site associated with the cosmic struggle between light and darkness. It played a significant role in their cosmology and religious narratives.
Why is Jerusalem significant in Manichaeism?
Within the belief system of Manichaeism, Jerusalem was seen as a focal point where the forces of light and darkness clashed. It represented a pivotal location in their cosmological understanding and the narrative of their spiritual teachings.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in Manichaeism?
Although Manichaeism is no longer a widely practiced religion, exploring the historical remnants of Manichaean scriptures, artifacts, and teachings can provide insights into the spiritual significance ascribed to Jerusalem within their belief system.
Example: Imagine visiting a museum exhibition dedicated to Manichaeism, where ancient artifacts and scrolls illuminate the religious worldview of this once-thriving faith. Among the exhibits, you come across references to Jerusalem as a symbol of the cosmic battle between light and darkness, evoking a sense of mystery and wonder about the spiritual significance attributed to the city by the Manichaeans.
15. Some New Age and esoteric belief systems
Various New Age and esoteric belief systems find spiritual connections to Jerusalem, perceiving it as a center of cosmic energies and spiritual awakening.
Within the realm of New Age and esoteric belief systems, Jerusalem is seen as a potent source of cosmic energies and a catalyst for spiritual awakening. It is regarded as a sacred destination that holds transformative power and facilitates spiritual growth.
Why is Jerusalem significant in New Age and esoteric belief systems?
In New Age and esoteric belief systems, Jerusalem is believed to possess unique energetic qualities and a high vibrational frequency. It is considered a convergence point of divine energies, facilitating spiritual experiences, healing, and personal transformation.
Where can we witness the significance of Jerusalem in New Age and esoteric belief systems?
The significance of Jerusalem in New Age and esoteric belief systems can be observed in the spiritual practices, alternative healing modalities, and metaphysical gatherings that take place within the city. These practices often seek to tap into the spiritual energies associated with Jerusalem.
Example: Imagine participating in a New Age retreat held in Jerusalem, where individuals from various spiritual backgrounds gather to engage in meditation, energy healing, and metaphysical practices. Amidst the ancient landscapes and sacred sites of Jerusalem, participants embark on a journey of self-discovery, connecting with the transformative energies believed to be abundant in the city.
Let’s look into the real details of why Jerusalem is considered a holy land.
Jerusalem Is the Holiest City for Judaism and One of The Most Sacred Cities for Christianity.
Jerusalem is the holiest city for Judaism and one of the most sacred cities for Christianity. The city is also Islam’s second holiest city after Mecca.
The Old City of Jerusalem contains sites important to many religions, including Judaism’s Western Wall and Temple Mount, Christianity’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Islam’s al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock.
Jerusalem Is Also Islam’s Second Holiest City After Mecca.
You may know Jerusalem as the home of Judaism and Christianity, but it’s also Islam’s second holiest city after Mecca. While many people consider Jerusalem their homeland, Muslims consider al-Aqsa Mosque—the third-holiest site in Islam—their spiritual home. The mosque is built on the Temple Mount, where Muslims believe Muhammad ascended to heaven from atop the rock where al-Aqsa now stands.
Muslims Consider Jerusalem the Third Holiest City After Medina.
Jerusalem is the third holiest city in Islam and is considered so crucial by Muslims that they refer to it as al-Quds, which means “The Holy.” The first two sacred cities are Mecca and Medina. Muslims believe Muhammad ascended to heaven from a rock where Al-Aqsa Mosque now stands. Christians also consider Jerusalem holy because it was where Jesus Christ was crucified, buried, and raised from the dead. The city is mentioned several times in the Bible. As well as being the Jewish capital city, Jerusalem has religious significance because of its connection to Abraham (the founder of Judaism), David (the king who united Israel), Solomon (King David’s son), and Jesus Christ.
The Rock Where Al-Aqsa Mosque Stands Is Said To Be The Place Where Muhammad Ascended To Heaven.
One of the most important prophets in Islam, Muhammad, is said to have ascended to heaven from the rock where al-Aqsa Mosque now stands. The area surrounding it is considered one of the holiest sites in Islam and a place of pilgrimage for many Muslims worldwide.
It’s also an important site for Jews and Christians because they believe it was on this spot that Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac before being stopped by an angel. It is believed that Jesus did his final preaching there just before he was crucified.
Al-Aqsa Mosque Is Believed to Have Been Built on The Site of Solomon’s Temple.
- The al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in Islam and stands on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, which Muslims believe was the site of Solomon’s Temple.
- According to Muslim tradition, it was built by Caliph Abd al-Malik between 691 and 692 CE in an area known as Solomon’s Stables.
- The Dome of the Rock is a shrine that marks Muhammad’s ascent into heaven and his night journey to Jerusalem.
This Site Is Known as The Dome of The Rock, or Masjid Qubbat As-Sakhra in Arabic.
The Dome of the Rock is also Masjid Qubbat As-Sakhra, which means “Dome of the Rock” in Arabic. Caliph Abd al-Malik built the temple between 685 and 691 AD. It is a shrine that Muslims regard as the third holiest site in Islam, after Mecca and Medina. It is also the second most sacred building for Jews and Christians because it sits on what they believe to be where God chose as His home for his people: Jerusalem.
Jerusalem Is Holy to Many Religions.
The Holy Land is one of the most critical places in the world, and Jerusalem is its heart. Many religions have claimed the city as its holy land.
Jerusalem holds a special place among Jews and Muslims because Noah’s Ark landed there after the Great Flood. In 586 BCE, Babylonian forces destroyed the First Temple built by King David at Ophel (the Temple Mount), and now sits as ruins at the Dome of Rock Mosque site. For Muslims, this also means that it’s one of the few remaining mosques from Prophet Muhammad’s lifetime: he visited it during his flight from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE or 623 CE, depending on when you select your calendar reference point (citation needed).
Conclusion
Jerusalem is a holy city for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. It has been central to many people’s lives over the centuries and plays an essential role in their faith. Jerusalem may be a holy land for many religions, but it is another city in our world today, which means there are no longer any conflicts over who owns this place!