Jerusalem, that art builded as a city that is compact together

During my latest trip to Jerusalem I decided to visit the City of David excavations just outside the Dung Gate not having been there for many years.

Apart from being impressed by how much things have changed I was particularly struck by the sight of the excavated walls and partial structures extending down the slopes.

For some reason on this visit the words of Psalm 122 came to me, ” Jerusalem that art builded as a city that is compact together. ”  Long after I had walked back through the Old City to modern day Jerusalem these words stayed with me.

Meandering through the streets and lanes of Geula and Nahalot over the following weeks they similarly came to mind.  Jerusalem really is a city that is compact together.

King David got it right. Being compact together really is a strength.

If further ‘proof’ were required it came it came on February 25 as I was walking down King George  street on the other side and just past The Great Synagogue. My attention was drawn to an old red roofed building which was being torn down by some heavy construction equipment.

It was probably not an architecturally significant structure, but I have always enjoyed looking at it as I left services at The Great Synagogue over the years. It’s partially hidden roof and surrounding wild shrubbery made me appreciate how the Synagogue’s early founders had chosen a site for their Synagogue in the countryside well outside the Old City walls.

I find it amazing how visiting modern day Jerusalem can increase one’s appreciation of the Old City which in turn can cause one to recite tehillim with true intention.