Cave of the Patriarchs Opens for Continuous Prayer on Tisha B'Av with Special Arrangements

The management of the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron announced special arrangements for Tisha B'Av 5786, allowing public access for prayer despite ongoing renovation work. The site will open on the eve of Tisha B'Av at 7:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m., and on the fast day itself, Thursday, from 4:00 a.m. until 9:45 p.m. The Jacob Hall will remain closed during this period.

Continuous prayer services will be held throughout the day to accommodate all worshippers. On the eve, Mincha prayer will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the Old Hebron Hall, followed by Maariv at sunset and the reading of the Book of Lamentations led by Rabbi Marciano. Simultaneously, another Maariv service and Lamentations reading will be held at 8:10 p.m. in the cave's central courtyard. Additionally, the cave of Otniel ben Kenaz will be open from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

At the conclusion of the fast, a rich refreshment spread including hot and cold drinks will be served in the lower garden of the cave to help worshippers break their fast and continue their spiritual connection. The management emphasized the importance of arriving on time, adhering to safety instructions, and maintaining the sanctity and comfort of the site.

Tisha B'Av is the national day of mourning in Israel commemorating the destruction of the two Temples, and the Cave of the Patriarchs is one of Judaism's holiest sites. These arrangements aim to facilitate worshippers' access and spiritual experience during this solemn day.