Thousands Pray at Joseph's Tomb in Rare Daytime Event

Thousands of Israelis gathered at the Tomb of Joseph in Nablus (Shechem) on Thursday morning for prayers during the Sukkot holiday, marking one of the most significant daytime entries to the holy site in recent years. The event, held during daylight hours, included morning prayers, Hallel, and the ritual taking of the Four Species, a departure from the predominantly nighttime visits previously allowed.

The initiative to expand access to the tomb is spearheaded by Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan, MK Zvi Sukkot, and Rabbi Dudu Ben-Nathan, father of a fallen soldier who advocated for increased Jewish presence at the site. This effort has continued posthumously, with Ben-Nathan's father actively promoting expanded access.

The recent push has involved negotiations to allow longer stays at the compound, leading to the decision to extend operating hours and permit morning prayers. The Thursday event occurred in two shifts, coordinated with security forces. Thousands arrived via an organized system managed by the Samaria Regional Council and the Tomb of Joseph Administration, with the IDF and security forces providing escort and security.

During the prayers, a thanksgiving ceremony was also held for the passengers of a flight from Dubai who were recently saved from a potential disaster. Yossi Dagan joined the prayers, dedicating remarks to the bravery of the passengers and crew. Also present were MKs Erez Malul and Uriel Buso, along with senior security officials including Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth, commander of the Central Command, and other high-ranking officers.

Dagan stated that the timing of the visit, during Sukkot and its connection to Joseph the Righteous, holds special significance. He called the daytime access a major achievement and vowed to continue pushing for a permanent and broader presence, aiming for the return of the "Ode Yosef Hai" yeshiva to the site and increased daily activity. MK Sukkot echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the change from previous limited nighttime access and stating the Samaria Council is prepared to advance the necessary infrastructure for regular operations.

Other MKs, Erez Malul and Uriel Buso, offered prayers for the welfare of Israel, IDF soldiers, and Torah scholars, emphasizing unity. Rabbi Yossi Elizur, head of the "Ode Yosef Hai" yeshiva, expressed hope for a full return to the site and daily activity for students.