In Jerusalem, Second Hakafot bring joy, memory and Jewish unity to the streets
The Torah scrolls came out, the music began, and the dancing quickly took over. Across Jerusalem on Saturday night, thousands gathered for Hakafot Shniyot —“Second Hakafot,” festive dancing with Torah scrolls traditionally held in Israel…
Assessment
Jerusalem's Second Hakafot drew thousands into the streets for dancing with Torah scrolls, blending holiday joy with the weight of Oct. 7's anniversary. The public gatherings at First Station, the Western Wall Plaza and Liberty Bell Park show how ritual space doubles as communal memory. Watch how these traditions evolve as the holiday's meaning shifts.