"If you want one simple word to symbolize all of Jewish history, that word would be Jerusalem." So wrote Teddy Kollek in 1981, then mayor of the city. He explained it further. "I do not think you can find any Israelis who are willing to give up Jerusalem. They cannot and will not. This beautiful golden city is the heart and soul of the Jewish people. You cannot live without heart and soul."

Similar words, though probably without military overtones, would express the feelings of many Christians. Moslem Arabs have the same attraction for the city. The events that have taken place in Jerusalem and their meaning for three of the great world religions make it a city for all time. We consider Jerusalem, in this sense, as a place, a prayer, and a promise.

First, As a Place.

It was King David who bro…