Jerusalem – IN PICTURES: Worshipers Flock To Western Wall As Tisha Be’av Begins

Jerusalem – Thousands of worshipers gathered at the Western Wall Sunday on the eve of Tisha Be’av, the solemn day of fasting in which Jews commemorate the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.

The national day of mourning falls on the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av, and is considered the saddest day on the Jewish calendar.

Worshipers during Tisha Be’av traditionally do not eat, drink or bathe; and as a sign of mourning leather is not worn, as the material is considered a sign of luxury. In some communities during services, the worshipers sit on the floor or on low stools and recite prayers in a subdued voice.

Thousands of security forces were stationed in the capital in anticipation of the arrival of tens of thousands of people to Jerusalem’s holy site throughout Sunday night and Saturday.

In light of national holiday, the cabinet will not meet on Sunday for its weekly convening and public institutions will be closed.

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