Feast

Crowds waiting for a fight

 Yesterday was the last day of February. It was also the muslim feast of Muhammad's ascension into heaven which is believed to have taken place here in Jerusalem 200m away from my room ... which is the Dome of the Rock mosque. Muslims believe Muhammed flew on a winged horse from Arabia to Jerusalem that night, the journey known as the Isra ... and then ascended into heaven known as the Miraj. 

There were thousands of muslims from not only the entire country but also muslim pilgrims from french and english speaking countries. I was warned by many people to walk pass Damascus Gate as there'd be fighting and clashes with the police. In fact after the noon day prayers there were clashes. Police sirens were wailing for several hours and sound of stun grenades exploding as well. 

Mounted police on standby

Later at 7pm I walked home and the area was swarming with people. Crowds of youth were hanging around the police posts. Others stood opposite the road at the railings. Everyone was waiting for a riot to start. As I reached Zedekiah's cave which is 30 meters away from Damascus Gate, a stun grenade exploded. Crowds rushed toward the Gate, shouting and jeering. I just continued walking away. Too old for such excitement anymore. But I did stay a few extra minutes to take photos.

The weather has warmed up alot. Max is 17 degrees today. Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday and soon it's Easter and the beginning of summer. Time flies. I'd like to plan what to do for summer holidays ... but like the past 20 years ... they'll never come to pass. I'd love to bring Buddy and JJ to Jaffa and see the sea and feel the sea breeze. Dream on. The pandemic is not over and though today the Covid State of Emergency is over and no more restrictions or Green Pass are needed, I still must be careful about infections.