Jerusalem, 15 April, 2025 (TPS-IL) -- Tens of thousands of Israelis thronged the Western Wall in Jerusalem on Tuesday for the traditional Priestly Blessing, a highlight event during Passover’s intermediate days. The ceremony, held under heightened emotion of war, drew worshippers from across the country and was streamed live online.
The blessings were given by descendants of Aaron the Priest, known as “kohanim.” Among the kohanim participating was former hostage Elya Cohen. The 27-year-old Cohen was abducted from the Nova Music Festival and eventually freed in February as part of a temporary ceasefire.
Also present were the families of hostages Segev Kalfon and Uriel Baruch.
While the event traditionally only takes place once during the intermediate days of Passover, a second Priestly Blessing is scheduled for Wednesday with the attendance of former hostages, families of those still captive, and wounded Israeli soldiers. Special prayers will be recited for the safety of the hostages and soldiers, and the recovery of the injured.