Despite restricted hours and certain prohibitions, Passover 5785 saw a new record in Jewish ascents to the Temple Mount: no fewer than 6,788 Jews visited Judaism’s holiest site over the five days of the holiday.
The Mount will be closed to Jews for the second part of the holiday (Friday and Saturday), and open only to Muslims – but the numbers already logged have made this holiday a historic milestone for Jewish presence at the site.
Steady Growth: A Clear Trend
Since the start of the Hebrew month of Nisan, 9,015 Jews have ascended the Temple Mount. Since the beginning of the Hebrew year 5785, the total has reached 39,696. By comparison, the numbers for the same period in previous years were:
5784: 30,787
5783: 28,463
5782: 29,511
These figures show that more and more people are reconnecting each year with the Temple Mount, and expressing that connection with their feet.
This Passover: A Sharp Rise Compared to Past Years
The numbers for Passover alone highlight the upward trend:
5784: 2,027
5783: 3,430
5782: 4,625
5785: 6,788
“The people are moving forward – the authorities less so”
Tom Nisani, CEO of the organization Beyadenu – For the Temple Mount, responded to the data:
“Jewish rights on the Temple Mount are advancing far too slowly compared to the public, which is reconnecting to the site. The authorities still haven’t understood the need to allow free access to a free people – and we will keep working until that’s achieved.”
A Quiet Holiday, Orderly Ascents
The visits were conducted in a festive and peaceful atmosphere. Dozens of rabbis, Knesset members, and yeshiva heads took part, and visitors held full prayer services – Shacharit, Musaf, Mincha, and Hallel.
Rabbi Shimshon Elboim, head of the Temple Mount Directorate, said:
“A new historic record was set on the Temple Mount – the return of the Jewish people to the site is gaining strength. We thank the Prime Minister, the Minister of National Security, the police commanders, and all the security personnel for their efforts during the holiday.”
Police allowed large groups to ascend, the Temple Mount Directorate provided transportation, guidance, and snacks for children – all of which contributed to a smooth and well-organized experience.
