A Once in 2000 Year Event: Levites Gather to Sing Funerals in Temple Reconstruction
Jerusalem, Israel – In a truly remarkable event, 800 Levites gathered at the Southern Wall complex next to the Western Wall for a mass and joint singing of the parts of the Psalms that were traditionally sung during Sukkot in the Temple. This special spectacle, organized by the Society for the Reconstruction and Development of the Jewish Quarter, aims to beautifully reconstruct and relive a historical tradition.
The mourners, carefully arranged into different groups according to their voices, stood on the famous Huldah steps which served as the entrance steps to the Temple Mount during ancient times. These steps, located in the Jerusalem Archaeological Garden, hold great historical significance and added to the ambiance of the event.
Under the musical direction of Itzik Weiss, former director of the “Mazmor” school, and direction of Yotam Segal, the Levites practiced their singing and voice division, guided by musical instructors. After the training, they performed the covers of the psalms. The great singing was accompanied by an orchestra, trumpets, and costumes to recreate the atmosphere of the temple period.
Renowned singer-songwriter and artist Yonatan Razel participated in the event for the second year in a row, highlighting its growing popularity and significance. The Society for the Development of the Jewish Quarter, in collaboration with the Ministry of Jerusalem and Israel’s Tradition and the Society for the Development of East Jerusalem, organized the event, with assistance from the Jerusalem Municipality.
Herzl Ben Ari, CEO of the Society for the Development of the Jewish Quarter, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to revive the singing of the Levites in such a captivating ceremony near the temple site. He emphasized the event’s ability to open the gates of the heart and stir longing for the old days in the attendees. Ben Ari further described the event as a powerful experience that has hardly been equaled since the destruction of the temple.
This unique and profound event served as a reminder of the deep-rooted history and traditions surrounding the Temple. It garnered significant attention and appreciation, with hopes for future ceremonies to continue honoring and cherishing this ancient practice.
[Photo Caption: Levites singing in the Temple / Photo Credit: Dor Pezzolo]