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This episode was originally recorded before October 7, 2023. At the time, I opened by reflecting on how many of us found it difficult to connect to the mourning of the Three Weeks while living in a strong, vibrant State of Israel. Today, after everything our nation has endured, those words sound very different. We no longer need help understanding national tragedy or longing for redemption.
Even so, I believe this conversation is worth revisiting. The question of ascending Har HaBayit remains one of the most important and controversial issues in the religious Zionist world, particularly during the Three Weeks.
In this episode, Rabbi Danny Myers argues that ascending Har HaBayit is not only halachically permissible but may even be a mitzvah, perhaps even an obligation. Although, as I note both in the episode and in a new introduction, I continue to follow the mainstream halachic position against ascending, Rabbi Myers presents his case thoughtfully, seriously, and with an unmistakable love of Torah, Eretz Yisrael, and the Jewish people.
Whether or not you agree with his conclusions, I think you'll find this to be an engaging and thought-provoking discussion.
To read my article "Walking on the Temple Mount: Why Don't I Do It?" click here.
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Music: "Happy Rock" by bensound.com
