Israel was granted independence by the UN in 1948. Israel influences the world politics, economy, and culture through its cooperative relationships with allied nations around the world. ‘Diaspora’ refers to the dispersion of Jews outside of Israel since Babylonian times. Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, is the holy city significant to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. The Western Wall, site of the ancient Temple remains, in Jerusalem is a very important site for Jews to gather and pray. All male Jews over the age of 13 in the world gather here to celebrate the coming-of-age ceremony called “Bar Mitzvah.” More than 80% of the population is Jewish. Government, public offices and many stores are closed on the Sabbath from Friday evening to Saturday evening. Jews study values presented in “The Five Books of Moses” and the “Talmud.” These books teach wisdom and have a great influence on education, culture and life-style.