The history of Shaare Zedek Medical Centre
Shaare Zedek Medical Center, located in Jerusalem, Israel, is one of the country’s oldest and most renowned hospitals. Its rich history dates back to the late 19th century and intertwines with the development of modern healthcare in Jerusalem and the broader region. Established in 1902, Shaare Zedek’s story is rooted in a vision of providing advanced medical care to the diverse population of the city, including Jews, Christians, and Muslims, during a time when modern medical facilities were scarce.
Founding and Early Years
The concept for Shaare Zedek was initiated by Dr. Moshe Wallach, a German-Jewish physician who saw the dire need for better healthcare services in Jerusalem. At the time, the city’s population faced numerous health challenges, from infectious diseases to poor sanitation. With donations from Jewish communities in Europe, Wallach raised funds to construct the hospital. The institution was named “Shaare Zedek,” meaning “Gates of Righteousness,” reflecting its mission to serve all people regardless of background.
The hospital was originally housed in a building on Jaffa Road, which quickly became an essential part of Jerusalem’s medical landscape. It was one of the first institutions in the city to adopt European medical standards, providing professional care that was previously unavailable in the region. Dr. Wallach himself served as the hospital’s first director and lived on the premises, dedicating his life to the institution for over 45 years. His holistic approach integrated modern Western medicine with traditional Jewish values, particularly in observing the Sabbath and maintaining strict kosher practices.
Growth and Modernization
In the decades following its establishment, Shaare Zedek expanded its services, becoming a critical provider of healthcare in Jerusalem. Despite challenges such as World War I, the hospital remained operational and continued to grow. In the 1930s and 1940s, as tensions between Jews and Arabs in the region escalated, Shaare Zedek became even more crucial as a neutral institution where people of all faiths could receive care.
Following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the hospital expanded further to meet the demands of a growing population. The post-war years saw an influx of Jewish immigrants from Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, many of whom settled in Jerusalem and needed medical services. In the 1970s, as the population and medical needs of the city grew, Shaare Zedek relocated from its original building to a new, larger campus on Mount Herzl, where it continues to operate today.
Achievements and Specializations
Over the past century, Shaare Zedek Medical Center has developed into one of Israel’s most prominent healthcare institutions. It is known for its cutting-edge medical research and high-quality patient care, particularly in the fields of cardiology, oncology, and pediatrics. The hospital is also a leader in prenatal and neonatal care, housing one of the busiest maternity wards in the country. Its Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower, opened in 2012, represents a state-of-the-art facility providing comprehensive medical services.
Shaare Zedek is not just a hospital but also a center for medical research and education. It collaborates with major universities and research institutes in Israel and around the world, contributing to advancements in medicine and public health. Additionally, the hospital is known for its emergency care, treating victims of terrorism and war, and has been at the forefront of responding to national crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Community and Legacy
Throughout its history, Shaare Zedek has maintained its commitment to serving all people regardless of religious or ethnic background, in line with its founding principles. The hospital’s reputation for inclusivity and high standards of care has earned it the trust of Jerusalem’s diverse population. Today, Shaare Zedek Medical Center remains a symbol of medical excellence and humanitarian service in Israel and beyond.
As it looks to the future, Shaare Zedek continues to build on its legacy, combining advanced technology with compassionate care, and fulfilling the vision of Dr. Moshe Wallach in meeting the healthcare needs of Jerusalem’s residents and visitors from around the world.
Who are the Australian Friends of Shaare Zedek ?
Office Bearers
Dr Allan Garfield – Chairman
Dr Marc Seifman – Deputy Chairman
Ruth Epstein – Secretary
Laurence Slomoi – Treasurer
Committee Members
Helen Brustman OAM
Dr Henry Eisenberg
Robert Epstein
Sara Garfield
Bradley Gecelter
Morris Landau
Robert Lebovits
Tom May OAM
Administration Manager – Hilary McMahon
