Introduction to Jerusalem's Divisions

Jerusalem, an ancient city steeped in history and culture, is often divided into distinct regions, each with its own unique characteristics. These regions include West Jerusalem, East Jerusalem, and the Old City of Jerusalem. Understanding the differences between these areas is crucial for anyone interested in the complex history and geography of this holy city. This article delves into the distinctions, highlighting their historical and modern contexts.

Differences between West, East Jerusalem, and the Old City

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the modern suburban areas of Jerusalem beyond the ancient and medieval city walls were referred to as West Jerusalem. This part of the city is characterized by its integration with contemporary life and is distinguished from the older, culturally rich East Jerusalem.

East Jerusalem, formerly known as East Jerusalem or Old City, is the historical core of the city. It is divided into four quarters: the Muslim Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Jewish Quarter, and the Armenian Quarter. Despite these divisions, all of these areas are collectively known as Greater Jerusalem, emphasizing that Jerusalem is Israel's eternal and indivisible capital.

The terminology of West Jerusalem and East Jerusalem is not officially recognized. However, for practical purposes, West Jerusalem refers to the parts of the city that were not occupied by Jordan from 1949 to 1967, while East Jerusalem includes the areas that were under Jordanian control during this period. This region also encompasses the Old City, which is within the ancient walls built by Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century. The Temple Mount, a key religious site, is located within the Old City, and thus, in this context, it is considered part of East Jerusalem.

Historical Context of Jerusalem

The history of Jerusalem predates its modern divisions. Archaeological evidence suggests that the city was originally known as Shalim, a Canaanite city, in the 7th century BC. In 550 BC, it was renamed Jerusalem, meaning He casts peace, by the Arameans. Over the centuries, the city saw various rulers and cultures, each leaving their mark on its rich tapestry of history.

One significant event in Jerusalem's history is the Exile of the Judaeans to Babylon in 586 BC. Upon their return, they found the city renamed Jerusalem and began to integrate with it, establishing their religious and cultural practices there. The term Jerusalem did not exist in the 18th century BC, as the region was part of Canaanite and later Aramean Shalim. The Judaic traditions and religious practices that we now associate with Jerusalem emerged much later, specifically around 456 BC, with the adoption of the God YHWH, a retained Canaanite sibling of EL.

Conclusion

The division of Jerusalem into West, East, and the Old City is a complex and multi-faceted issue. While these labels are often used, they do not fully capture the rich history and cultural significance of the city. Exploring these regions provides valuable insights into the broader context of Jerusalem's cultural and historical development, making it a city of immense importance to the world.

Keywords: West Jerusalem, East Jerusalem, Old City of Jerusalem