Jerusalem, 18 November, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s Ministry of Religious Services is preparing for the holiday of Sigd, the holiday of longing for Jerusalem for the Ethiopian Jewish community, which will be celebrated this coming Thursday. As part of the preparations, the ministry is launching a special brochure for the first time that explains the day’s subject, its meaning, and its relevance even today.
The special booklet was written by the best rabbis and spiritual leaders working in the religious councils. The authors are headed by Rabbi Reuven Wabshet, Chief Rabbi of Ethiopian Jews and Director of the Department of Religious Services for the Ethiopian Community in the Ministry of Religious Services , and alongside him are other prominent rabbis.
Sigid, which is recognized as an official holiday in the State of Israel by virtue of a law from 2008, is part of the national calendar. The holiday will be celebrated at two central locations: at the central state assembly at the Commissioner’s Palace in jerusalem, and then with prayers and a gathering at the Western Wall Plaza.
During the week of the holiday, various events will be held in communities across the country, according to each community’s unique style. Other state bodies, such as educational institutions and the Israel Police, are also working to mark the holiday.