Jerusalem Notebook

Rediscover Jerusalem through a Palestinian lens.

Spiritual and Religious Life “India in Jerusalem”: The Hidden Legacy of the Indian Zawiya

The Indian Corner: a spiritual haven in Jerusalem’s Old City

Who Are the Palestinians of Jerusalem? Stone-Inspired Jewelry Pieces Born in the Old City, Driven by a Global Dream

Jerusalem’s stones make their way to jewelry pieces.

The Unusual Origins of an Iconic East Jerusalem Hotel

A Palestinian “Pasha’s Palace” became a haven for traumatized evangelical Christians who served the community for decades and founded a storied hotel.

Blog Posts

Spiritual and Religious Life In the Midst of Darkness, Palestinian Jerusalemites Observe Eid al-Adha

Despite the ongoing misery, Jerusalemites find joy in Eid rituals.

Spiritual and Religious Life Jerusalem’s Shared Status Quo Is Being Shattered by Jewish Nationalist Conquest

A holy season that should have been a celebration of shared religious heritage was marred by Jewish extremists.

Spiritual and Religious Life Somber Christmas in Jerusalem’s Holy City

The Old City of Jerusalem’s streets are empty this holiday season.

Spiritual and Religious Life Christian Jerusalemites Reflect on Hopes and Wishes for a Better Year in 2025

A second mournful Christmas in Jerusalem in the shadow of ongoing genocide in Gaza

Community and Tradition Are on the Table for the Feast of Saint Barbara, Cherished in Jerusalem

The times remain heavy for Christians in Jerusalem, but they find comfort in December by connecting over an ancient festival.

Spiritual and Religious Life Jerusalem Suffers in Silence on Eid al-Adha

Palestinian Jerusalemites find it impossible to celebrate this Eid al-Adha.

Spiritual and Religious Life Feeding the Needy on Eid al-Adha in Today’s Jerusalem: A High-Risk Endeavor

For Palestinian Jerusalemites, even fulfilling religious obligations is fraught with risk under Israeli occupation.

Spiritual and Religious Life The Splendor of Eid al-Fitr in Jerusalem, Despite the Sadness

A deep sadness cloaked the city, but the Eid al-Fitr rites were observed, including visiting the dead and saying prayers for their souls.