Massive Pilgrimage Expected Tonight at the Ohr HaChaim’s Gravesite in Jerusalem
Only public buses allowed | Tens of thousands to visit Mount of Olives on the 282nd yahrzeit of Rabbi Chaim ben Attar
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Starting tonight (Thursday), huge crowds are expected to gather at the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem to mark the 282nd yahrzeit of Rabbi Chaim ben Attar, known as the Ohr HaChaim HaKadosh—a towering Sephardic Torah scholar and mystic.
Authorities estimate up to 100,000 people will make the pilgrimage to his gravesite over the next 24 hours.
Public Transportation Only
In light of the expected crowds and narrow roads in the area, private vehicles and chartered buses will not be allowed to enter the Mount of Olives. Access will be available only via public transit lines 51 and 551, which will operate:
Pickup point: Ramat Junction via Shmuel HaNavi's Even Station
Organizers urge participants to follow all instructions, especially during peak hours, and to exercise patience for the safety of all attendees.
Officials Praise the Spiritual Significance
Minister of Religious Services Michael Malchieli emphasized the spiritual importance of the event:
“The Ohr HaChaim’s hillula is a powerful moment of unity and prayer. We worked with the City of Jerusalem and religious councils to make this event accessible and dignified for all.”
Director-General Yehuda Avidan added:
“It’s become a national tradition. We pray the merit of the Ohr HaChaim will bring the swift return of all hostages home.”
Jerusalem Burial Council chief Tzuriel Krispel outlined key logistical focuses:
All emergency and religious services will be fully deployed on site to ensure a smooth and safe experience.