Who made Jerusalem the capital of Israel? This question often sparks debates and discussions among historians, political analysts, and religious scholars. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as it involves a complex web of historical, political, and religious factors. In this article, we will explore the various aspects that led to Jerusalem becoming the capital of Israel.
Jerusalem has been a city of great significance for thousands of years, with its history intertwined with that of the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic worlds. The city has been conquered and ruled by numerous empires and kingdoms throughout history, each leaving its mark on the city’s identity and status.
One of the key figures in making Jerusalem the capital of Israel was David, the second king of Israel. In the biblical narrative, David conquered Jerusalem from the Jebusites and made it the capital of his kingdom. This event is believed to have occurred around 1000 BCE. David’s decision to establish Jerusalem as the capital was motivated by several factors, including its strategic location, religious significance, and its role as a center of trade and culture.
Following David’s reign, Jerusalem continued to be a focal point for the Jewish people. The First Temple, built by King Solomon, was a testament to the city’s religious importance. However, the city was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BCE and later by the Romans in 70 CE. Despite these setbacks, the Jewish people maintained a strong connection to Jerusalem, often referring to it as their spiritual and cultural center.
After the Roman conquest, Jerusalem was under various rulers, including the Byzantine Empire, the Crusaders, and the Ottomans. During this time, the city’s status as a capital was not a central concern for its rulers. However, the Jewish people continued to dream of returning to their ancient homeland, including Jerusalem.
The 19th century saw a rise in Jewish nationalism, known as Zionism, which aimed to establish a Jewish state in the land of Israel. The Balfour Declaration of 1917, issued by the British government, expressed support for “the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people,” which included Jerusalem. Although the declaration did not explicitly mention Jerusalem as the capital, it laid the groundwork for the future establishment of Israel.
After the State of Israel was declared in 1948, Jerusalem became a focal point of the Arab-Israeli conflict. The city was divided between Jordan and Israel, with Jordan occupying East Jerusalem, which included the Old City and the Temple Mount, while Israel controlled West Jerusalem. This division lasted until the Six-Day War in 1967, when Israel captured East Jerusalem and later annexed it, declaring the entire city as its capital.
The international community has been divided on the status of Jerusalem. While Israel considers it its eternal and undivided capital, most countries maintain their embassies in Tel Aviv. The United Nations and other international bodies do not recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, largely due to the ongoing dispute over the city’s status.
In conclusion, Jerusalem’s status as the capital of Israel is the result of a long and complex history. From David’s conquest of the city to the modern-day conflict, Jerusalem has been a focal point for the Jewish people and their struggle for sovereignty. While the question of who made Jerusalem the capital of Israel may never be fully answered, it is clear that the city’s significance transcends mere political boundaries, making it a symbol of hope, conflict, and identity for many.
