The Nameless One has very recently given a first-hand account of Jerusalem in today’s climate (literally). He reveals, “So far, the summer has been fantastic—not too hot, at least not in Jerusalem—and we are already entering the beautiful month of Elul, the month before Rosh Hashanah and the High Holidays, a month of Teshuvah (repentance) and spiritual preparation for the High Holidays.”

Israelis are passing through the roads, in shops and out of shops, playing music and listening to music, going to work, whilst gathering the items the high holidays call for amidst a celebration of heritage.

The Nameless One says, “You can feel the Israeli autumn in the air. It is an unstable season, with a great breeze and extra humidity, even in Jerusalem. White flowers, grapes, and ants working extra hard are seen in the parks and nature reserves. Tiny red fruits are ripening on different trees, ready for the migrating birds to eat —simply beautiful. Jerusalem during August is the kingdom of children, with so many activities, cultural events, and festivals.”

But the war could spark up again at any time. As my friend concedes, “Beneath this deceptively peaceful summer, however, the region is not truly at rest.”

He explains, “Since the war with Iran ended around April, we have entered what is called in Israel ‘the cucumber season.’ I think that in English it is called the ‘silly season.’ There is no........

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