Tens of thousands of worshippers participated in the second Priestly Blessing (Birkat Kohanim) ceremony, held during the Shacharit and Musaf prayers for Sukkot this morning (Thursday) at the Western Wall Plaza.
During the ceremony, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, Rabbi of the Western Wall and the Holy Sites, together with the tens of thousands gathered, recited chapters of Hallel and prayers of thanksgiving in light of the miracles and acts of chesed that took place yesterday on the flight from Dubai to Israel. He called on the public to increase their prayers of thanks and gratitude, alongside continued prayers for the well-being of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers and security forces, and for the peace and unity of the Jewish people.
The Western Wall Heritage Foundation is pleased to report on the holiday thus far, with nearly one million worshippers and visitors having visited the Western Wall Plaza since the beginning of the holiday to fulfill the mitzvah of Aliyah LaRegel (pilgrimage to Jerusalem). Among them have been rabbis, public figures, tourists from abroad, and thousands of Israelis from across the country and around the world who chose to celebrate Sukkot here in Jerusalem, the Holy City.
The holiday reached its peak with the two traditional Birkat Kohanim ceremonies, as tens of thousands came to bless and be blessed with Aaron’s blessing - the Priestly Blessing - together with former hostages and bereaved families.
As is customary, Hakafot Shniyot on Motza'ei Simchat Torah: The traditional Hakafot Shniyot at the Western Wall Plaza will take place, God willing, on Motza'ei Simchat Torah | Saturday night | Eve of 23 Tishrei | October 3, 2026, beginning at 10:00 p.m. at the Western Wall Plaza.
The event will feature singer Eli Cohen, the Yoni Eliav Orchestra, and the Neranena Choir.
In light of the miracles that took place, this year’s ceremony will be dedicated to chapters of Hallel and thanksgiving, with hearts filled with joy.