That minister was Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister, and his presence did more than stir controversy--it marked a dramatic shift in what many have long described as the "status quo." Despite government officials insisting that "nothing has changed," what took place on Sunday declared quite the opposite: everything has changed.
For thousands of years, the 9th of Av has been the darkest day on the Jewish calendar. It commemorates the destruction of both the First Temple (by the Babylonians in 586 BC) and the Second Temple (by the Romans in 70 AD). On this day, Jews fast, sit on the floor, and recite lamentations, mourning not only the loss of the Temples but also centuries of exile, persecution, and dispersion.
And yet, on this Tisha B'Av, the very site where Jews have been forbidden to worship for generations echoed not with cries of mourning--but with songs of praise. People sang. Worshippers prostrated. Jewish feet walked freely where once only whispers and silent prayers dared tread. (Read More)
