Yerushalayim Shel Zahav (ירושלים של זהב) Lyrics in Hebrew and English Translation
Naomi Shemer's "Yerushalayim Shel Zahav" (ירושלים של זהב), meaning "Jerusalem of Gold," is more than just a song; it's a powerful anthem deeply embedded in Israeli culture and history. Its lyrics evoke a potent blend of longing, hope, and pride, resonating with generations of Israelis and Jews worldwide. This post provides the complete Hebrew lyrics along with a detailed English translation, exploring the nuances of the language and the song's enduring legacy.
Hebrew Lyrics:
ירושלים של זהב, בנויה באבן ובשיר, ירושלים של זהב, עיר הקודש נצחית היא. בָּעֲלִיָּה הַמְּעוּפָּפָה, עָמְדוּ וְהִתְגַּבְּרוּ, בָּעֲלִיָּה הַמְּעוּפָּפָה, הַקְּטַנִּים וְהַגְּדֹלִים.
ירושלים של זהב, עיר הנצח לא תיפול, ירושלים של זהב, בתפארתה היא עומדת. בָּעֲלִיָּה הַמְּעוּפָּפָה, עָמְדוּ וְהִתְגַּבְּרוּ, בָּעֲלִיָּה הַמְּעוּפָּפָה, הַקְּטַנִּים וְהַגְּדֹלִים.
ירושלים של זהב, בָּנִינוּ בָּהּ בָּיִת, ירושלים של זהב, בִּשְׁבִילֵיהָ הִתְהַלַּכְנוּ. בָּעֲלִיָּה הַמְּעוּפָּפָה, עָמְדוּ וְהִתְגַּבְּרוּ, בָּעֲלִיָּה הַמְּעוּפָּפָה, הַקְּטַנִּים וְהַגְּדֹלִים.
English Translation:
Jerusalem of Gold, Built of stone and song, Jerusalem of Gold, Eternal holy city. On the dusty road, They stood and overcame, On the dusty road, The small and the great.
Jerusalem of Gold, Eternal city, you shall not fall, Jerusalem of Gold, In its glory, it stands. On the dusty road, They stood and overcame, On the dusty road, The small and the great.
Jerusalem of Gold, We built a home there, Jerusalem of Gold, In its paths we walked. On the dusty road, They stood and overcame, On the dusty road, The small and the great.
Understanding the Nuances:
The beauty of "Yerushalayim Shel Zahav" lies not only in its simple yet powerful imagery but also in the subtleties of the Hebrew language.
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ירושלים של זהב (Yerushalayim Shel Zahav): The evocative phrase itself uses "shel" (of), creating a possessive relationship, emphasizing Jerusalem's golden nature – not just literally, but also metaphorically referring to its spiritual and historical significance.
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בנויה באבן ובשיר (Benuya ba'even u'veshir): "Built of stone and song" highlights the city's tangible existence ("stone") and its intangible spirit ("song"), its rich history and vibrant cultural life.
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עיר הקודש נצחית היא (Ir hakodesh netzachit hi): "Eternal holy city" reinforces Jerusalem's religious importance and enduring presence throughout history.
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בָּעֲלִיָּה הַמְּעוּפָּפָה (Ba'aliya hame'ufpapa): "On the dusty road" refers to the arduous journeys undertaken by those returning to, or settling in, the land of Israel – a path fraught with challenges but ultimately leading to triumph.
The Enduring Legacy:
"Yerushalayim Shel Zahav" remains a powerful symbol of Zionism and Jewish connection to Jerusalem. Its enduring popularity stems from its ability to encapsulate the hopes, dreams, and struggles of generations connected to the city. The song's simple yet profound lyrics, combined with its memorable melody, make it an unforgettable piece of Israeli and Jewish musical heritage.
This deep dive into the lyrics provides a richer understanding and appreciation of this iconic song. The beauty of the Hebrew language and the evocative imagery contribute to its powerful emotional impact.
