Over 50,000 Attend Rosh Hashanah Eve Prayers at Western Wall
More than 50,000 people gathered at the Western Wall plaza on Thursday night for the central Selichot (penitential prayers) service, marking the last night of the Hebrew month of Elul and the eve of Rosh Hashanah. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also visited the site prior to the main service to pray for the peace of the state.
The event included the annulment of vows and curses, with participation from the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi David Yosef, along with other rabbis, ministers, and public figures. The Rabbi of the Western Wall, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, called for unity and mutual responsibility as the new year approaches.
Prayers were offered for the safety of IDF soldiers and security forces, for the recovery of the wounded, and for the peace, security, and unity of Israel. Due to the large crowds, the service was broadcast live on screens in the Old City walls and at Jaffa Gate for thousands unable to enter the plaza.
The Western Wall Heritage Foundation reported that nearly one million worshippers have visited the plaza since the beginning of Elul for various Selichot services. The next major Selichot service is scheduled for Monday, September 14, at 12:15 AM, with tens of thousands of worshippers expected.
