JERUSALEM LAW Meaning and
Definition
-
Jerusalem Law refers to a legislation passed by the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, on July 30, 1980, that officially declared Jerusalem as the unified and eternal capital of Israel. The law asserts Israel's sovereignty over Jerusalem, both its western and eastern parts, including the Old City, which contains significant religious sites such as the Western Wall, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
The law was enacted as a response to Israel's victory in the Six-Day War in 1967, where it captured East Jerusalem from Jordanian control. It aimed to solidify Israel's claims over the entirety of Jerusalem and fulfill a long-standing Zionist aspiration to make the city the capital of Israel. The international community considers East Jerusalem, including its Old City, as occupied territory and does not recognize Israel's sovereignty there.
The Jerusalem Law triggered various reactions and raised tensions within the international community, particularly among Arab states and Palestinians, who consider East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state. It also impacted the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and complicated peace negotiations between the two sides.
The passing of the Jerusalem Law had significant political, religious, and diplomatic implications. It has sparked debates, protests, and condemnations from various countries concerned about its potential impact on the final status of Jerusalem and the prospects for a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Etymology of JERUSALEM LAW
The term "Jerusalem law" refers to a series of Israeli legislative measures enacted in 1980 that declared Jerusalem the "complete and united" capital of Israel. The etymology of the word "Jerusalem" dates back to ancient times.
The word "Jerusalem" has its origins in Hebrew and is derived from the Hebrew name "Yerushalayim". The Hebrew name itself is believed to have multiple possible origins and interpretations. One theory suggests that it comes from the Hebrew root "yerusha" meaning "inheritance" and "shalom" meaning "peace", thus translating to "inheritance of peace". Another theory is that it derives from the combination of "Yireh" (meaning "to see") and "Shalem" (meaning "peace"), indicating "the place where peace is seen".
The Hebrew name was later adapted into other languages.
