Praying with my feet in the Jerusalem Marathon

I felt like I was praying with my legs as I raced through the streets of our holy city in the Jerusalem Marathon this past Friday. With Biblical verses running through my head, I was thrilled to “run through the streets of Yerushalayim” (Jeremiah 5:1) with my son Dovid and daughter Bella. I was overjoyed to see “the streets of the city filled” (Zechariah 8:5) with over 20,000 runners and walkers celebrating the energy and vitality of Jerusalem. And thanks to the gorgeous weather, the runners were all smiling from ear to ear as they ascended the steep inclines of “the city surrounded by hills” (Psalms 125:2).

While marathons are common in other cities around the world, there is a major focus on kindness at the Jerusalem Marathon that gives it a special and spiritual flavor. There were hundreds of runners and walkers with disabilities, and many more who were there to cheer them on.

There are many great courses through many beautiful cities all over the world, but those who ran this past Friday will tell you that there was a different feeling here. It’s the recognition that the Jewish people have returned to Zion and that only in the Jerusalem Marathon can you pray with your legs.

Take a look at the photos below to get a feel for the 2021 Jerusalem Marathon.

Beaty Deutsch wins 1st place in women’s half marathon
Runners in wheelchairs arrive at the finish line of the Jerusalem Marathon. Photo by Yaniv Nadav/Flash90
Thousands of runners take part in the annual marathon in Jerusalem, October 29, 2021. Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90
Rabbi Tuly Weisz running in the 2021 Jerusalem Marathon
Team Shalva celebrating kids with disabilities at the Jerusalem Marathon. Photo by Noam Revkin Fenton/Flash90
Share the Post:

Your Impact Matters

Creating Hope Through Generous Giving

More Updates

Transforming Life For Sderot’s Seniors

When life in Sderot was turned upside down by the devastating events of October 7th and the constant threat of rocket barrages, hope felt distant for many residents, especially the elderly. But thanks to your generosity, the Senior Employment Club has become a renewed space of comfort, purpose, and connection for the elderly community, giving them a vital second home when they needed it most.

Read More

Saving Two Lives: Helping a Mother Choose Hope

You didn’t just help Rina become a mother—you gave her the chance to experience the joy of raising her child in a stable, loving environment. The light you brought into her life during her darkest days continues to shine, and her gratitude is endless.

Read More

CONNECT WITH ISRAEL

Get our emails about Israel and the Bible

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.