Thousands Attend Selichot Prayers at Tomb of the Patriarchs

Thousands of Israelis gathered at the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron on Thursday for a central Selichot (penitential prayers) service. The event was attended by Israel's Chief Rabbi, Kalman Meir Bar, and Minister Orit Strook.

Organized by the "Sha'alim" network of religious Zionist seminaries, the service focused on connecting with Jewish roots. Chief Rabbi Bar spoke about King David, whose reign began in Hebron, emphasizing that building the future requires connecting to the nation's ancestors. He described the "merit of the fathers" as a spiritual genetic inheritance, stating that even outwardly distant Jews possess a sacred root that can be revealed through warmth and love.

Rabbi Bar also addressed recent events, noting that even during difficult crises, the inner Jewish spirit emerges, with even those perceived as distant crying out "Shema Yisrael." He explained that during the High Holy Days, prayers acknowledge that outward appearances are superficial, but the inner desire connects all Jews to their ancestors and to God.

Minister Strook, a long-time resident of Hebron, also addressed the attendees, highlighting the importance of activities supporting the Jewish people and the Land of Israel.