Israel Begins Historic Renovation at Tomb of the Patriarchs for First Time in 2,000 Years

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

HEBRON, Israel (Worthy News) – For the first time in nearly 2,000 years, Jewish authorities are carrying out major conservation work at the Tomb of the Patriarchs, the biblical burial site of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebecca, and Jacob and Leah.

The site, also known as the Cave of Machpela, is considered Judaism’s second-holiest location after the Temple Mount.

The project includes electrical upgrades, air conditioning, improved drainage, new lighting, fire protection systems, and a long-awaited roof over the Jewish prayer area, which has often flooded during winter rains.

Yishai Fleisher, director of international and government affairs for the Jewish Community of Hebron, told JNS the renovation will make worship “more pleasant, more moving and more spiritual,” while signaling Israel’s recognition of the site’s central place in Jewish heritage and identity.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said the improvements reflect the deep connection of the Jewish people to the patriarchs and matriarchs and to their roots in Hebron.

The work comes years after UNESCO designated the Tomb of the Patriarchs as an endangered Palestinian heritage site in 2017, a decision Israel and Jewish leaders condemned as an attempt to erase Jewish history.

Fleisher said Israel’s investment in the site is the best answer to those efforts, saying Jewish heritage “will not be allowed to fall into the hands of people who want to erase our history and identity.”

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