Thousands Gather for Special Tisha B'Av Prayer at Rabbi Yonatan Ben Uziel's Tomb for Matchmaking Blessings

Tisha B'Av, a day traditionally viewed by the sages as one of misfortune for Israel, has over time become associated with a unique custom of praying for matchmaking and finding a spouse. Many Jews believe in the special spiritual power of prayers said on this day. A central location for these prayers is the holy tomb of Rabbi Yonatan Ben Uziel in Amuka, which attracts thousands of visitors year-round, especially on Tisha B'Av.

This year, the Rabbinical Committee for Charity Affairs will hold a special prayer event at Rabbi Yonatan Ben Uziel's tomb on Tisha B'Av itself. During the ceremony, rabbis will sign a special prayer document and offer prayers on behalf of all the names submitted in advance. The prayer asks that through charity, the merit of Tisha B'Av, and the saintly Tanna Rabbi Yonatan Ben Uziel, those who submitted names merit to find their match quickly, without delays or obstacles, and to build a faithful home in Israel with abundance, health, and divine assistance.

Many families testify that after exhausting all practical efforts, they turn to the power of prayer on this auspicious day. For them, submitting a name for prayer is a meaningful act of faith, hope, and added spiritual merit. Ahead of the event, the Rabbinical Committee urges the public not to wait until the last moment but to submit names early to be included in the special Tisha B'Av prayer gathering in Amuka.