What is "Aliyah"?

Have you ever wondered why it is called "Aliya" when immigrants come to Israel? We use the word often to describe coming to live in Israel, it seems easy to forget that it is a Hebrew word. "Aliyah" - עליה means "ascension" or "rise". It is no coincidence that this word has been chosen to describe such an important thing. It puts an emphasis on the fact that these immigrants are "ascending" as they come to their homeland, raising the quality of their lives. One could easily say that this holds spiritual meaning as well. To "ascend" usually means to rise spiritually, and in Judaism, spiritual ascension goes hand in hand with moving to live in the Holy Land.

But that's not all. When someone leaves Israel to move to another country, it is called "Yeridah", which is also in Hebrew (ירידה). It is the exact opposite of "Aliyah" in Hebrew, and it means "decent" or "lessening", indicating that leaving Israel is a negative thing that "lowers" the quality of life and spiritual development.

There are many Hebrew words that we use without knowing the true meaning behind them. Because Hebrew is such an ancient language, there is usually meaning behind every word and name. Learn more about the words you think you already know and the Hebrew language and strengthen your connection with the holy land of Israel..

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