“It has been 25 years since Joseph’s Tomb was abandoned. It is time to bring Joseph out of the pit and restore this holy place.”
By United with Israel Staff
Amid the hills of Samaria, thousands of worshippers gathered Monday evening at Joseph’s Tomb in Shechem for a prayer service under the guidance of the IDF and volunteers from the Holy Sites Authority.
Visitors recited Psalms and prayed for the safety of Israeli soldiers and security forces, bringing a moment of spiritual strength to a sacred site that has witnessed centuries of struggle and devotion.
Among those present were Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan, the Hasidic Leader of the Kaliv dynesty (Kaliv Rebbe), Knesset members Tzvi Sukkot and Michal Waldiger, Rabbi Noam Waldman, head of Yeshivat Nir, and Samaria Brigade commander Col. Ariel Gonen.
The Kaliv Rebbe led the crowd in the declaration of “Shema Yisrael,” imbuing the gathering with profound religious significance.
Dagan reflected on the day’s importance: “We arrived today with thousands at Joseph’s Tomb on the anniversary of the assassination of Rehavam Ze’evi, of blessed memory. We call on the government to follow Joseph’s example, to return here fully and to implement sovereignty in Judea and Samaria. We thank the IDF and border police who protect us all.”
The Kaliv Rebbe added, “I am moved to stand here as my grandfather would have. Joseph the Righteous is the foundation of all our good deeds. God gave us all of the Land of Israel, and we must boldly claim what belongs to the people of Israel—the complete land.”
Sukkot emphasized the urgency of the moment: “It has been 25 years since Joseph’s Tomb was abandoned. It is time to bring Joseph out of the pit and redeem this holy place. It cannot remain in the hands of Ishmaelites.” Waldiger joined, blessing the crowd: “May we merit a total victory over our enemies, the return of hostages and fallen soldiers to Israel, and soon witness complete redemption.”
At the close of the visit, Dagan expressed gratitude to Col. Ariel Gonen, IDF officers, police, and the many volunteers who ensured security and safe access, noting that “the massive turnout demonstrates the deep connection of the people of Israel to their roots.”
Joseph’s Tomb, a site dating back thousands of years, has long been a symbol of Jewish resilience. Today, despite challenges, it continues to serve as a spiritual anchor, uniting worshippers in faith, remembrance, and hope for the future.
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