Shabbat Chayei Sarah Draws Tens of Thousands to Maarat Hamachpela

The annual Shabbat Chayei Sarah in Chevron drew tens of thousands of Jews, turning the city of our forefathers into a center of prayer, song, and community as visitors from across Israel gathered near the Maarat Hamachpelah. 

Each year on this Shabbat, commemorating Avraham’s purchase of the cave as recorded in the Parsha, thousands arrive to honor the site and join the tradition that has grown over decades. This year’s gathering was especially large, with police estimating that roughly 26,000 people came to Chevron and Kiryat Arba between Friday and Shabbat.

From early Friday morning, crowds were already filling the streets where communities from across the country were brought together. Security forces described a strong sense of unity, with participants spanning the full spectrum of Israeli society.

Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir held a security assessment shortly before Shabbat, touring the cave with police commanders and reviewing preparations for the large influx of visitors. He emphasized that the goal was to allow worshippers to celebrate in safety. “This Shabbat is one in which we connect to the roots of our forefathers. I have great appreciation for the district commander, the officers, and all security forces operating in the field,” he said.

Police and Border Police units, together with IDF forces in the Judea region, operated throughout the weekend to manage movement, maintain security, and respond to incidents. Police asked officers to respect the sanctity of the day, avoid unnecessary confrontations, and maintain a welcoming attitude toward the thousands of visitors.

Only one security incident occurred when gunfire was heard from within the Arab section of Chevron. A local emergency response volunteer fired a warning shot, and police, Border Police, and IDF forces quickly arrived at the scene. Two suspects were later arrested. Officials noted that given the massive number of participants, disturbances remained limited and were handled quickly. 

Alongside the prayers and events, a panel featuring Minister Ben Gvir, Ministers Yitzhak Wasserlauf and Amichai Eliyahu, and MK Limor Son Har-Melech drew several hundred attendees.

Ben Gvir’s office described the weekend atmosphere as uniquely uplifting. “The crowds that filled the area, the singing, the prayers, and the meeting of all parts of the public created a unique sense of unity not seen every Shabbat in the city,” the ministry said. After Shabbat morning prayers, the minister hosted a Kiddush at his home attended by dozens, continuing into the late afternoon.

Kiryat Arba–Chevron Council Head Yisrael Branson said the gathering once again demonstrated the strength of the local community. “This year’s Shabbat Chayei Sarah was a display of holiness, unity, and extraordinary hospitality. Thousands of families opened their homes with love, and the community proved its deep tradition,” he said.