Israel's Nation Prays at Western Wall Ahead of Yom Kippur

Approximately 150,000 Israelis gathered at the Western Wall on the night of September 20 for the final penitential prayers, known as Selichot, preceding Yom Kippur. This marked the largest prayer service of the month of Elul, a period dedicated to seeking divine forgiveness for transgressions between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Among the attendees were Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who offered a prayer for the well-being of IDF soldiers, and President Isaac Herzog. Former hostages, including Noa Argamani, Itai Regev, Omer Shem-Tov, and Bar Cooperstein, whose return had been prayed for in previous years, also participated.

Rabbi of the Western Wall, Shmuel Rabinovich, addressed the crowd, stating, "This month has once again proven that the Western Wall is the beating heart of the Jewish people." He emphasized the diverse attendance, with people from all over the country, from all walks of life, and with varying beliefs, coming together as one.

Rabinovich highlighted that prayers were offered for the welfare of IDF soldiers, the healing of the wounded, the comfort of families, and the unity of the Israeli people. He expressed hope for the New Year, envisioning a year of healing, comfort, victory, blessing, and a renewed sense of shared destiny and prayer.

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, began on Sunday, September 20, around 6:00 PM, and concluded on Monday, September 21, around 7:10 PM.