Before the onset of COVID-19, tens of thousands of people would attend communal prayers nightly at the Western Wall during the High Holiday season, asking for Divine forgiveness.
The Kotel in the Old City of Jerusalem is, in “normal” years, especially busy in the days leading up to Yom Kippur, when Jews pray for forgiveness for any sins committed during the past year.
Both Ashkenazim (Jews of German and eastern European background) and Sephardim (Jews of Spanish, Portuguese, North African and Middle Eastern descent) recite selichot, prayers for forgiveness, although there are differences in tradition.
This particular video, made by photographer Eli Abdu, depicts a sephardic service, which is evident in the word pronunciation and tune.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!