Over 140,000 Pilgrims Visit Rabbi Chaim Ben Attar's Tomb on Hilula at Mount of Olives

More than 140,000 worshippers visited the holy tomb of Rabbi Chaim ben Attar, known as the "Or HaChaim," on the Mount of Olives during his annual Hilula celebration this week, according to police estimates. The event was marked by extensive preparations from the Ministry of Religious Services and the Jerusalem Cemetery Council to accommodate the large crowds safely and respectfully.

In the days leading up to the Hilula, organizers expanded prayer areas, installed lighting and shading systems, increased crowd control personnel, coordinated with emergency services, and operated dedicated public transportation lines to the site. Due to the terrain and safety concerns, access to the tomb was permitted only via public transit, which successfully transported thousands of pilgrims throughout the event.

Yehuda Avidan, Director General of the Ministry of Religious Services, emphasized the importance of the event, calling it "one of the greatest and most moving gatherings," and praised public cooperation with the organizers for enabling a dignified prayer experience. Yaakov Cohen, a project coordinator from the ministry, highlighted the continuity of responsible public management following other major Hilulas, including those of Baba Sali and Rabbi Meir Baal Haness.

Zuriel Krispel, Director General of the Jerusalem Cemetery Council, described the operation as one of the most complex logistical efforts on the Mount of Olives, noting the months of preparation and the successful management of crowd flow, security coordination, and transportation. Throughout the Hilula, pilgrims from across Israel gathered to pray, study the teachings of the Or HaChaim, light memorial candles, and offer prayers.

The event concluded with all involved parties declaring it a significant success in terms of participation, site management, transportation, and safety.