Shavuot (Festival of the First Fruits) was originally an agricultural festival - "You shall observe the festival of the harvest, the first fruits of your labors, which you will sow in the field…" (Shemot [Exodus] 23:16). The Mishnah (Bikurim, C.3) gives a detailed account of the procession of people bearing their first fruits to the Temple: "The inhabitants of the district assembled in a city of the district and spent the night in the town square. Early in the morning, their leader said: 'Let us rise and go up to Zion, to the house of the Lord our God.' (Mishnah Bikurim 3:2.) Those who lived near Jerusalem brought fresh figs and grapes, and those who lived far away brought dried figs and raisins. . . . The sounds of the flute announced the pilgrims’ coming until they neared Jerusalem, when they sent messengers ahead and arranged their first fruits for presentation. . . . (Mishnah Bikurim 3:3).
http://www.jewishfolksongs.com/en/shavuot
A song I learned as a child about Chag Shavuot was called Saleinu al k'tefeinu, (Baskets on our shoulders).
It describes how our ancestors proceeded to Jerusalem, bearing fruits.
Miy'hudah (u)mishomron
min ha'emek vehagalil.
They came from Judea and Samaria, from the valley and from the Galil.
Why is Israel being asked to give up land which is connected to our ancestors?
This afternoon I read about a concert scheduled for Sunday which is "dedicated to a united Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to Israel standing up to Iran."
The 17th annual Israel Day Concert in New York City is quickly approaching, and organizer, Dr. Joseph Frager, whose indefatigable efforts for the Jewish people include helping found Arutz Sheva, expects a record 20,000 people to attend. The event will take place Sunday, May 23, in Central Park. Admission is free.
The concert aims to bring together supporters of a united Israel and attracts at least 10,000 every year.
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/137585
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