Aviv Day 7!

The important institutions of each and every nation are located in its capital, Israel is no exception. Jerusalem houses the national precinct in Israel which is the home of the country’s most important political institutions, including the embodiment of each and every branch, legislative, executive and judicial. Following a quick breakfast we boarded the bus and headed off to the national precinct. As we arrived at Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, the groans could almost be heard all the way back in Sydney as bored young Australian women let all know exactly how disinterested in politics they were. After passing through a security checkpoint, we entered the Knesset and were met by our guide Chana who equipped us with our audio tour equipment and escorted us around the grounds of the hugely architecturally impressive parliament complex.

The building featured the work of artist Marc Chagall, including a captivating three panel tapestry which captured ‘past, present and future’ and was proudly displayed in the foyer. As we moved around to various rooms we learnt of the Israeli political system which although complicated is very interested for those who can understand it. We sat in on a live session of parliament which was not all that riveting thanks to our collective lack of Hebrew skills however the casual attitude of the MPs was remarkable as some took phone calls, seemingly played games on their phones, and even had a quick laugh with their mates during a speech by the Israeli health minister. We finished the tour and headed off for lunch despite the clock face showing the largely premature time of 11AM.

A large walk ensued until we finally settled down for lunch on the grounds of Hebrew University, consuming schnitzel sandwiches. Jared Engelman spiced up lunch by joining a somewhat odd Israeli game of leap frog, making some friends in the process. Much to the resentment of all dozing on the grass we left the campus and headed off to another institution in the national precinct, the Israeli Supreme Court, but not before walking past the offices of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or as most call him ‘Bibi.’ The Supreme Court was an interesting tour, led by a guide whose wicked sense of humour captured the imaginations of all members of the group. A barrage of symbolism was apparently present in the buildings architecture, in a manner which reminded many of the questionable hypotheses drawn during a VCE/HSC/WACE english class. The tour tired all, with most resorting to sleeping positions around the court precinct in a way which deeply angered security. We sat in on a live court session which we were again unable to follow thanks to the language barrier. We soon re-boarded the bus and headed back towards our temporary residence of Kiryat Moria.

A laundry run was offered to all for a measly fee of 40 shekels, most jumping at the opportunity thanks to the already filthy manner of our clothing. Next up was dinner and a chance to mingle with group 2 which was taken by some and not others. Our final activity of the day was a guest speaker who engaged us in an interactive session about Israeli politics, needless to say, some enjoyed more than others.

Another awesome day down, 143 days to look forward to!

Jake