Tens of Thousands Gather at Western Wall for Final Selichot Prayers Before Rosh Hashanah

Over 50,000 worshippers congregated at the Western Wall Plaza in Jerusalem for the final Selichot (penitential prayers) service before Rosh Hashanah. The event, held on Thursday evening, September 10, 2026, saw prominent religious and public figures leading the prayers.

Among those present were Israel's Chief Rabbi David Yosef and former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Shlomo Moshe Amar, who led parts of the service. Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion also participated. Other notable attendees included National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Knesset members Limor Son Har-Melech and Ohad Tal, and Jerusalem District Commander Avshalom Peled.

Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites, addressed the massive crowd, emphasizing the importance of unity within the Jewish people and calling for an end to disputes, increased unconditional love, and mutual responsibility as the new year approaches. Prayers were offered for the safety of IDF soldiers and security forces, the recovery of the wounded, and the security of the nation.

The Western Wall Heritage Foundation reported that nearly one million worshippers have visited the site since the beginning of Elul, the Hebrew month preceding Rosh Hashanah. They also announced that additional large-scale Selichot services would be held during the Ten Days of Repentance. Due to the immense crowd, the service was broadcast live on the walls of the Old City and at Jaffa Gate, enabling thousands who could not enter the plaza to participate.