Reisen nach Jerusalem: Westdeutsche Christen im "Heiligen Land" und Israel (1950er bis 1970er Jahre)

German groups traveled to Israel from the 1950s to 1970s with varying expectations, ideas, and presuppositions, shaped by their changing religiosity, Holocaust history, and Middle East conflict. Three forms of travel—pilgrimages, study trips, and voluntary services—illustrate the range of Christian travel to Israel and the Holy Land.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2022
Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht GmbH & Co KG

In the captivating era from the 1950s to the 1970s, a wave of German travelers embarked on a journey to the Holy Land, a land rich in history and spirituality. Their motivations for this pilgrimage varied, ranging from traditional religious aspirations to modern forms of tourism. As they ventured into this sacred land, these travelers were exposed to a myriad of influences that shaped their interpretations of the traveled space.

The analysis of these patterns of interpretation delves into the profound shift in religiosity within the Federal Republic of Germany. It explores the complex interplay between the country's past, marked by the Holocaust, the ongoing Middle East conflict, and the perception of foreign and familiar elements. Three distinct forms of travel serve as exemplars, showcasing the diverse range of Christian travel by Germans to Israel and the Holy Land: pilgrimages, study trips, and voluntary services.

Pilgrimages, a timeless tradition, have always held a special place in the hearts of believers. These spiritual journeys were often organized by Christian organizations, providing an opportunity for individuals to connect with their faith and seek solace in the holy sites. The pilgrims embarked on a physical and emotional journey, traversing the ancient paths that led to the sacred landmarks. Their experiences ranged from profound moments of meditation and reflection to emotional encounters with fellow travelers and the historical significance of the land.

Study trips, on the other hand, aimed to expand the knowledge and understanding of the Holy Land. These trips were meticulously planned, combining educational lectures, guided tours, and cultural interactions. The participants, ranging from academics to laypeople, sought to deepen their knowledge of the region's history, religion, and cultural heritage. Through these study trips, they gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the Middle East conflict and the role of Israel in shaping the region's future.

Voluntary services, a form of altruistic travel, involved individuals dedicating their time and skills to support various projects and initiatives in Israel and the Holy Land. These services ranged from building schools and hospitals to providing humanitarian aid and assisting in community development. The volunteers not only contributed to the well-being of the local communities but also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and gain a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by the region.

In conclusion, the German travelers who embarked on their journeys to Israel and the Holy Land in the 1950s to 1970s brought with them a range of expectations, ideas, and presuppositions. Their experiences were shaped by the complex interplay between their religious beliefs, historical context, and the evolving landscape of the Middle East conflict. Through pilgrimages, study trips, and voluntary services, these travelers explored the sacred land, seeking solace, knowledge, and a deeper connection with their faith. Their interpretations of the traveled space were molded by the diverse influences they encountered, leaving a lasting impact on their spiritual and cultural journeys.

Dimension: 235 x 160 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783525573433