Shmini Atzeret haftarah: The Temple Mount is no longer silent

The article examines how the Shmini Atzeret haftarah, describing King Solomon's dedication of the First Temple, resonates with current developments of increased Jewish prayer and ritual on the Temple Mount. It notes over 1,100 Jews ascended on Hol Hamoed, police permitted prayer sheets, and some performed the Four Species mitzvah during Sukkot, marking a historical shift after centuries of prohibition.

The article, by Michael Freund, examines how the Shmini Atzeret haftarah (I Kings 8:54-66) — describing King Solomon dedicating the First Temple and the Jewish people celebrating — takes on new meaning amid recent developments on the Temple Mount. It reports that over 1,100 Jews ascended on Hol Hamoed this Sukkot, with footage showing open prayer. Police permitted approved prayer sheets earlier this year, and in August a limited trial allowed prayer books. Some Israelis succeeded in performing the Four Species mitzvah on the Mount during Sukkot, clandestinely passing lulav and etrog sets. The author frames these as steps in a historical shift after centuries of prohibition, while noting ongoing restrictions and halachic debates. The piece is a religious commentary blending biblical exegesis with current events, written from a perspective that views increased Jewish worship on the Mount positively.