Definition:

Yom Ha’atzmaut is Israel's Independence Day.

This day, normally celebrated on the 5th Iyar each year, commemorates that day in 1948, May 14th in the secular calendar, when the independent modern state of Israel was proclaimed. The Declaration of Independence was immediately followed by seven neighbouring Arab countries declaring war on Israel, the first of many wars in the past 61 years, but this was, thankfully, a failed attempt at destroying the tiny infant nation.

While very many Israelis and Diaspora Jews agonise about some of the very real difficulties facing Israel, as the country struggles with external enemies, and many internal problems, nevertheless the great majority have a very real commitment to, and sense of support for the Jewish homeland, and this is demonstrated in many ways. In Israel, the day is a national holiday, on which the state is celebrated in many ways. And, similarly, Diaspora Jews have different gatherings in solidarity. Yom Ha’atzmaut is immediately preceded by Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Remembrance Day.

More Information:

Find the latest dates for upcoming-festivals in the Reform Movement Calendar.