Jerusalem, Israel - Oct. 20, 2024  - Over 200,000 people have visited the Western Wall this Sukkot. On Sunday morning, over 50,000 attended Birkat Cohanim, the Priestly Blessing. Additionally, there were prayers for the return of the hostages, the success of IDF soldiers, and the recovery of the wounded.

Initiated 54 years ago by the late Rabbi Menachem Mendel Gafner and organized for many years by the Western Wall Heritage Foundation, the event is held during the intermediate days of Passover and Sukkot, attracting large crowds

Birkat Cohanim for Tishre 5785 attendees included Israel's chief rabbi, the Rishon LeZion Rabbi David Yosef, the rabbi of the Western Wall and holy sites, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, Israel Police Rabbi Rami Rahamim Berachyahu, Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai,  .Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion,  Argentina's ambassador to Israel Shimon Axel Wahnish, and former U.S. ambassador to Israel David Friedman, along with other rabbis, ministers, public figures, hundreds of cohanim, and thousands of worshipers.

 

BJL was again honored access to photograph the event from the Aish building in the Old City, one of the best vantage points for Birkat Cohanim. Aish, celebrating 50 years, had supporters on multiple levels for the morning tefilah and brunch. This year the weather was pleasant adding to the simcha and mood. However, the war was not forgotten, as young IDF soldier G. K. was called to speak briefly after the Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Yitzchak Berkovits delivered his welcoming remarks. 

The photo essay includes views above and below Aish. People come from near and far to watch and hear the Birkat Cohanim, including Marylanders and olim from Maryland.