The Western Wall as a Place of Pilgrimage (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Religious Studies): Revision Note

What is the Western Wall & why is it historically significant?

• The Western Wall (also called the Wailing Wall or Kotel) is a sacred site in Jerusalem

  • It is the last remaining part of the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE

  • The site of the Wall is where both the First and Second Temples were located

  • It was originally part of the retaining wall that supported the Temple Mount

• It is historically significant due to its link to the Holy Temple

  • The Temple was the centre of Jewish worship, where sacrifices were made

  • It housed the Holy of Holies, the most sacred space where G-d’s presence (Shekhinah) dwelt

The importance for Jews of visiting the Western Wall

Why do Jews visit the Western Wall?

• According to Jewish tradition, Mount Moriah, the location of the Western Wall, is sacred because G-d himself handpicked the location

  • As the Bible says:

• The Western Wall is a place of mourning and hope for many Jews

  • Jews have wept and prayed at the Wall for centuries, mourning the destruction of the Temple

  • It symbolises Jewish suffering, endurance and hope for future restoration

• The Western Wall is a focus for Jewish pilgrimage and prayer

  • It is viewed by many Jews as the closest accessible point to G-d’s presence

• The Wall remains a physical connection to Jewish history, faith and heritage

  • It unites Jews worldwide as a symbol of resilience and devotion

What happens at the Western Wall?

• Jews pray facing the Wall, believing it is the closest point to the Shekhinah (divine presence)

  • Men and women pray in separate sections

  • People often pray silently, read psalms or recite prayers, such as the Amidah

• Many Jews go on pilgrimage to pray at the Wall and place written prayers in its cracks

• Some families celebrate important life events, such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, at the Wall with prayer and reading from the Torah

• The Wall is a place for personal reflection and repentance, and it is where Jews can feel closer to G-d

• Israeli state events, memorials and military ceremonies are sometimes held at the Wall, reflecting its national and spiritual significance