Watch: The Priestly Blessing — Corona Version

Illustration: Kohanim prepare for the Priestly Blessing, Screenshot (Boomerang's ברכת כוהנים - גרסת קורונה Report 0:58)

In an inspiring video report, the activist group, Boomerang — Fighting for Israel, documented the birkat haKohanim blessing the Jewish people. Because synagogues are closed in Israel do to COVID-19, the kohanim of this community in Samaria fulfilled their ancient duty in one of the minyan's gathering for prayer in the street.

Ezri Tubi of Boomerang explained that the “birkat hakohanim is a Hebrew prayer recited by kohanim (the descendants of Aaron) and that according to the Torah, G-d promises that ‘I will place My name on their hands (of the kohanim) and I will bless them (the people Israel receiving the blessing).’

“The Jewish Sages stressed that although the priests are the ones carrying out the blessing, it is not them or the ceremonial practice of raising their hands that results in the blessing, but rather it is G-d's desire that His blessing should be symbolized by the Kohanim's hands.

“Even after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, the practice has continued in Jewish synagogues, and today Kohanim bless the worshipers in the synagogue during special Jewish prayer services.

“May all those who love Israel be blessed!”