Selichot Begins in Jerusalem: Sephardic Community Prepares for Rosh Hashanah – Prayer Schedule
Understanding Selichot
Selichot (derived from the Hebrew word selichah, meaning “forgiveness”) are a collection of penitential prayers and piyyutim (religious hymns) recited as part of the spiritual preparation for Rosh Hashanah(the Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement).
At the heart of the Selichot service is the repeated invocation of the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy (Shlosh-Esreh Middot). According to the Torah, God revealed this formula to Moses following the sin of the Golden Calf. In Jewish tradition, reciting these verses with sincere repentance is associated with seeking divine forgiveness and mercy.
Selichot at the Western Wall in Jerusalem
The Western Wall is one of the main sites for Selichot gatherings in Jerusalem. During this period, late-night prayer services attract worshippers from across Israel and from around the world.
The gatherings become particularly large in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. For many worshippers, praying at the Western Wall is an important part of their spiritual preparation and repentance.
It is important to note that the August 14 date marks the beginning of Selichot according to the Sephardic tradition, rather than a universal start date for all Jewish communities in Jerusalem. The city has different liturgical traditions, and prayer schedules vary by community.
Selichot in Jerusalem: First Services in 2026
Sephardic communities traditionally begin reciting Selichot at the beginning of the Hebrew month of Elul, well before the High Holy Days. In 2026, the first day of Elul falls on August 14.
Because Selichot are not recited on Shabbat, many congregations will begin their regular services after Shabbat. The first major Selichot service at the Western Wall will take place on the night of August 15–16, 2026.
According to the official schedule of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation, the inaugural central service will begin at 12:15 a.m. on Sunday, August 16, shortly after the conclusion of Shabbat on Saturday evening.
Selichot in Jerusalem: 2026 Service Schedule
Following the inaugural service on the night of August 15–16, further Selichot gatherings are scheduled for August 20 and 22, August 27 and 29, and September 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
A major central Selichot service will take place on September 10, on the eve of Rosh Hashanah.
The prayers will continue after Rosh Hashanah on September 14, following the Fast of Gedaliah, and on September 15, 16 and 17. Another central Selichot service is scheduled for September 17.
According to Sephardic tradition, Selichot continue until the eve of Yom Kippur, which falls on September 20, 2026.
