Over Half a Million Pray at Western Wall During Selichot Services

More than 50,000 people gathered at the Western Wall plaza on Thursday night for the central Selichot (penitential prayers) service. The event included prayers for the safety of IDF soldiers and security forces, and for the unity of the Jewish people. Due to unprecedented crowds, the service was broadcast on large screens on the walls of the Old City, allowing thousands who could not enter the plaza to participate.

Since the beginning of the Hebrew month of Elul, over half a million worshippers have attended Selichot services at the Western Wall. The Western Wall Heritage Foundation noted a significant increase in attendance this year, with thousands gathering nightly and tens of thousands attending the main events throughout Elul. The foundation attributes this rise to a deep spiritual need among the public.

Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, led prayers for the IDF and security forces, and for Israel's unity and security. The broadcast on the Old City walls, facilitated by the Jerusalem Municipality and the Western Wall Heritage Foundation, created a moving experience for attendees.

The next major Selichot service is scheduled for Saturday night, September 5th, at 12:15 AM, with tens of thousands expected to attend. The atmosphere of repentance and awakening during these days of mercy and forgiveness continues to draw large crowds from all sectors of society to the Western Wall plaza.