Thousands of Ultra-Orthodox Jews Pray Near Temple Mount Entrance

On the morning of September 27, 2026, thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews gathered at the Cotton Merchants Gate, an entrance to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, for a festive morning prayer. Participants, wrapped in prayer shawls and holding traditional festive plants, conducted their service outside the complex itself, not within its grounds.

This location was chosen due to religious and political sensitivities. According to the peace treaty with Jordan, only Muslims are permitted to conduct prayers on the Temple Mount, while Jews are allowed to visit only as tourists. Furthermore, most prominent ultra-Orthodox rabbis prohibit adherents from ascending the Temple Mount due to religious law, making the gathering at the external gate a practical necessity.

The prayer service involved the use of the "ar-minam," a set of four plants including the etrog, lulav, myrtle, and willow branches. These are traditionally used during Sukkot, symbolizing the unity of the Jewish people and expressing gratitude for the harvest while praying for rain in the agricultural and spiritual cycle.

Jerusalem police maintained order in the surrounding Old City streets to prevent potential clashes and ensure the safety of worshippers and residents.