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YOM HAATZMA'UT
ISRAEL'S FLAG
What is Yom HaAtzma’ut and when do we celebrate it?
The name ‘Yom HaAtzma’ut’ means ‘Independence Day’. On the fifth of Iyar, 5708 (14th May 1948), the ancient land of Israel became the new State of Israel. Yom HaAtzma’ut is a national holiday in Israel and is also celebrated by Jews around the world.
Symbols and Celebrations of Yom HaAtzma'ut
Israel's Flag
The flag of Israel was designed by a man called David Wolffsohn. He chose two elements for the flag. The first was the colours of blue and white, to represent the tallit (Jewish prayer shawl) and the second was the Magen David (Star of David) which had been used as a Jewish symbol for a long time.
Hatikvah (Israel's National Anthem)
The new State of Israel kept the national anthem "Hatikvah", which means "The Hope".
Its words talk about the hope of returning to Zion. The song ends with "Our hope is not forgotten, the hope of 2,000 years. To be a free people in our own land, the land of Zion, Jerusalem."
How is Yom HaAtzma'ut celebrated?
At sunset on the eve of Yom HaAtzma’ut, twelve torches are lit on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. These twelve torches stand for the twelve tribes of Israel, and there is a gun salute.
This is a big day for celebrations in Israel, and parties are held all over the country. There is dancing in the streets, fireworks and outdoor entertainment. People decorate their homes with lights and Israeli flags.
In the Diaspora (countries outside Israel where Jews live), we celebrate this day by having special Yom HaAtzma’ut services in synagogues and schools. In some Jewish schools children to come to school dressed in blue and white, the colours of the Israeli flag.
A song for Yom HaAtzma'ut
Kol Ha'aretz
Kol ha'aretz degalim, degalim
Am roked galim, galim
Am sameach, taf tzohel
Chag hayom leYisrael!
The whole land is filled with flags
Waves of people are dancing
The children shout with joy
Today is a festival in Israel!
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