Head of Temple Mount Yeshiva Calls for Support Amid Growing Religious Activity

Rabbi Elisha Wolfson, head of the Temple Mount Yeshiva, is urging the public to join, strengthen, and contribute to the daily activities of the yeshiva held on the Temple Mount. He emphasizes that such support is essential to continue Torah study, prayers, and regular religious practices at the site. Speaking on the morning of Tisha B'Av, a day commemorating the destruction of the Temple, Rabbi Wolfson expressed deep emotion over the increasing Jewish presence and spiritual awakening on the Mount, which he sees as a sign of redemption after two millennia of longing.

Rabbi Wolfson highlighted that since the Six-Day War and the return to the Temple Mount, it has taken time for the Jewish people to internalize the significance of this change. He noted that now, 59 years later, there is a growing understanding that God has truly returned the Jewish people to the sacred site. He stressed that this renewed connection should go beyond prayer and yearning to include actual visits to the Mount, conducted according to halachic (Jewish legal) guidelines.

The rabbi described a significant transformation over the past two years, especially since the appointment of Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, comparing the current atmosphere to six years ago when even quiet prayer could lead to police intervention. Today, he said, there are songs, prayers, prostrations, shade structures, and arrangements for the recitation of kinnot (lamentations). He called on the public to participate in this ongoing revolution by visiting the Mount after proper halachic preparation and supporting the yeshiva's daily work.

Rabbi Wolfson rejected criticism regarding changes to the status quo on the Temple Mount, questioning why peaceful worshippers who come with joy and do not cause conflict should be opposed. He emphasized that his vision is not one of confrontation but of prayer and peace, citing the prophetic vision of the Temple as "a house of prayer for all nations." He also noted a shift in public awareness, reflected in numerous halachic inquiries about how and where to ascend the Mount, and improved respectful cooperation with police commanders, which facilitates the yeshiva's activities. Rabbi Wolfson concluded by affirming that these developments are clear signs of redemption and progress toward the rebuilding of the Temple.

The rabbi encouraged donations to support the yeshiva's work, especially on Tisha B'Av, underscoring the importance of sustaining the daily presence and study on the Temple Mount beyond special occasions and holidays.