First Candle Lighting at the Kosel Dedicated To Hostages Release

The first candle of Chanuka was lit at the Western Wall under the slogan “Lighting the Light for the Captives.” Additionally, symbolic menoras were lit, representing the number of captives still being held in captivity.

The Rav of the Kosel, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, said, “Here, from the Kosel, our candles shine for you in the darkness. We pray for you. We pray with you. The entire Jewish nation is with you and will be with you until you return home. We all pray together tonight, ‘And the sons shall return to their borders.’”

In an emotional ceremony initiated by the Western Wall Heritage Foundation and the Ministry of Religious Services, the lighting of the first Chanuka candle took place, symbolizing ‘Lighting the Light for the Captives.’ Prayer for their safe return.

Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz said, “I am speaking from here, from the Kosel, from the ancient stones that are the beating heart of Yidden. I address our brothers and sisters in Gaza. I don’t know if you hear me, but I know that your hearts are connected to ours now. Our candles shine for you in the darkness. We pray for you. We pray with you. The entire Jewish nation is with you, and we will be with you until you return home soon, with G-d’s help. We all pray together tonight, ‘And the sons shall return to their borders’—healthy and whole in body and soul.”