Aliyah. Aliyah, going to live in the Holy Land, has been the cherished dream of Jews throughout the centuries. In fact the very word aliyahbecause the Jewish people have always regarded moving to Israel as an ascent, an act of spiritual elevation. At times, this dream was realized, but more often, circumstances prevented it from becoming anything more than a faint hope. Today, aliyahinfested Mediterranean, risking attacks by Crusaders or Saracens, or living in poverty. One can travel to Israel on a comfortable jet, live there in a modern house or apartment, own a car (or two), and enjoy a rich, religious life.