Approximately 150,000 people visited the Western Wall during the Shabbat preceding Tisha B’av (Shabbat Chazon) and on the fast of Tisha B’Av itself.
Thousands streamed to the Western Wall in honor of Shabbat Chazon and Tisha B’Av to mourn the destruction of Jerusalem, adjacent to the site of the Temple.
As the end of the fast approached, many thousands gathered at the Western Wall Plaza, families and individuals from Israel and from around the world. It was a moving and holy event of everyone singing “Ani Ma’amin” (I believe) as one nation, with one heart, with hope and faith in the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
After the fast ended, there was an orderly and respectable distribution of refreshments for the worshipers, organized by the Western Wall Heritage Foundation in conjunction with various organizations and donors.
At night following the fast, thousands, including yeshiva boys, rabbis and admorim, streamed to the Wall for Kiddush Levana (Sanctification of the Moon) and songs of yearning for the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
Photos: Shmuel Amit
Video: Western Wall Heritage Foundation
amazing pictures!
Moshiach now!