Hundreds of Jews Pray Near Temple Mount, Shake Four Species

Hundreds of Jews gathered on Sunday morning, during the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday, for a festive morning prayer near the entrance to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City. During the recitation of Hallel, a prayer service for the holiday, the worshippers excitedly held the Four Species, the etrog, lulav, hadas, and aravah, fulfilling the holiday's commandment with enthusiasm.

The gathering, which included many ultra-Orthodox participants, was accompanied by singing and chanting. The event took place within the walls of the Old City, a significant location for Jewish tradition.

The Four Species are central to the Sukkot observance, symbolizing unity and the harvest. Their ritualistic shaking is a key mitzvah (commandment) performed throughout the week of Sukkot.