Daily Halacha - Laws of the Western Wall's Sanctity, 27th of Iyar 5777

Is it permitted to take soil or plants from the Western Wall?

It is forbidden to take soil from the Western Wall as a spiritual charm. Those who are lenient about taking the plants growing between the layers of the Wall have authorities on which to rely [Responsa of the Rishon LeZion, p. 49].

Is there permission to enter the Temple Mount area after proper immersion?

One should not be lenient about entering the Temple Mount area even after immersion and for the purpose of a mitzvah. Those who are lenient in this matter lead the public to sin and have no authorities on which to rely [Responsa of the Rishon LeZion I, pp. 52-55].

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