Authentic Tradition

Your prayer joins a sacred practice believed to hold the Divine Presence at the Wall. Placing a prayer note in the Western Wall (the Kotel) is one of the most iconic and moving traditions in Jerusalem. It’s a practice that bridges the gap between the physical and the spiritual, used by millions of people regardless of their personal faith. Here is a breakdown of the history, meaning, and logistics of this ancient tradition: The Heart of the Tradition The tradition stems from the belief that the Shekhinah (the Divine Presence) never leaves the Western Wall. Because the Wall is a remnant of the retaining wall of the Second Temple, it is considered the holiest site where prayer can be offered. Writing a note—often called a kvitel (Yiddish for "little note")—is a way for a person to "leave" their prayer in this sacred space, ensuring their petition remains at the "doorstep of heaven" even after they depart. How It Works The Content: There are no rules for what to write. People include personal pleas for health, gratitude, or even peace for the world. The Placement: The notes are folded tightly and pushed into the cracks between the massive Herodian stones. Over time, the crevices have become packed with layers upon layers of paper. Modern Access: In the digital age, the tradition has expanded. You can now send prayers via email, fax, or websites. Designated staff in Jerusalem print these out and place them in the Wall on behalf of people who cannot travel there in person. What Happens to the Notes? A common question is: Does the Wall ever get full? The answer is yes. To make room for new prayers, the notes are cleared out twice a year: Before Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) Before Passover The process is handled with extreme respect: No Trash: According to Jewish law, because the notes contain the name of God or are considered holy objects, they cannot be thrown away. The Burial: The notes are collected using wooden tools (to avoid "harming" the stones) and are buried in a Genizah (a storage area for sacred texts) on the Mount of Olives. Did You Know? The tradition isn't just for the Jewish community. World leaders, including Popes and U.S. Presidents, have famously placed notes in the Wall during their visits as a sign of respect and personal reflection.

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Global Access

From anywhere in the world, you can participate in this intimate spiritual ritual in one of the world's holiest places.