Today, the reborn Jewish State celebrates the 78th anniversary of the declaration of independence of the State of Israel. This historic event took place on the 5th of Iyar 5708 (May 14, 1948), at 4:00 PM, eight hours before the end of the British Mandate for Palestine, at the home of Meir Dizengoff on Rothschild Boulevard in Tel Aviv.
78 years ago, on the spring day of the 5th of Iyar 1948, David Ben-Gurion (David Yosef Green) solemnly proclaimed the Declaration of Independence, announcing to the world the realization of the Jewish people’s centuries-old dream – the return to the land of their historic homeland, the creation of an independent Jewish State, and the unwavering aspiration to realize the great slogan – “to be a free people in their own land, the land of Zion and Jerusalem.” The declaration was then signed by 25 members of the People’s Council, leaving space for the signatures of twelve additional council members trapped in besieged Jerusalem. The ceremony was broadcast by the Kol Israel radio station.
“This year, the central theme of the traditional ceremony on Mount Herzl is ‘Forces of Renewal.’ In the past year, Israel completed the return from captivity of all its sisters and brothers, both living and fallen, from Palestinian terrorists in Gaza. The forces of renewal have manifested themselves this year in all spheres of life in the State of Israel, and the feeling of returning to life pulsates across all areas of activity. During this period of the return of evacuees from the north and south, the restoration of what was destroyed, the overcoming of suffering and pain, a time of rebirth, the strength of those Israelis whose efforts bring renewal to healthcare, rehabilitation, agriculture, industry, security, education, economy, culture, high technology – and, in essence, to all areas of our lives – is fully evident. The torches will be lit by men and women whose activities strengthen national resilience, provide support to the country’s regions affected since October 7, and help traverse the path of recovery, construction, and healing necessary for Israeli society during this period. This year at the Independence Day ceremony, 14 people will light 12 traditional torches in honor of the 12 Tribes of Israel. The chosen men and women, heroes of the home front and the battle front, represent a fascinating human mosaic of personal and national heroism, extraordinary resilience, a spirit of volunteerism and mutual assistance, determination, contribution to society and the country, and the triumph of the spirit. They are living symbols of Israeli society, which is full of strength for rebirth, renewal, and hope for a better future,” reports www.gov.il.
The Dnipro Jewish Community and our website join all the congratulations extended to the Jewish State on this day and wish it prosperity, well-being, and, of course, peace, and to all its citizens good health, security, and many years of tranquil life for generations to come.
Mazel Tov, Israel!
