In the heart of Israel's biblical heartland, under the shadow of Shiloh’s ancient stones, a deeply moving and symbolic gathering took place as American Jews, Israeli citizens, and supporters of Israel joined in prayer for the United States. Just days before the U.S. presidential election, the Binyamin Regional Council in Judea and Samaria organized an event at the hallowed site of Shiloh, where nearly 150 Orthodox Jews lifted heartfelt prayers for America’s future.
The choice of location was significant. Shiloh, which is steeped in biblical history, is where the Ark of the Covenant rested for 369 years, and where Hannah famously prayed for a son. This ancient city has long symbolized faith, perseverance, and the powerful bond between the Jewish people and their ancestral land. Today, it stood as a testament to the unity between the United States and Israel, and to the shared values that have bound the two nations together across generations.
Praying for a Strong America and a Strong Israel
The event brought together a diverse crowd: American immigrants who had already cast their votes by absentee ballot and native Israelis who cherish the U.S.-Israel alliance. The organizers highlighted the fundamental importance of a robust America, a nation that has long been a pillar of support for Israel, especially in Judea and Samaria.
"America’s strength is Israel’s strength," said Yisrael Ganz, governor of the Benjamin Regional Council. "In these challenging times, our enemies aim to erode the Jewish connection to this heartland. We pray for America’s success and resilience because a resilient America will continue to uphold the truth of Israel’s biblical heritage."
As morning sunlight bathed the ancient stones, attendees recited psalms and prayed the daily morning prayers. Their words reached across continents, bound by shared hope and a desire for divine guidance over both Israel and the United States. In a world beset by turmoil, the gathering was a call for peace, protection, and partnership.
On Sunday, hundreds of Israeli Jews gathered at the ancient site of Shiloh to pray for the U.S. election. @wshstand https://t.co/crWJwL88uO
— FRCAction (@FRCAction) November 4, 2024
A Call for Courage and Faith
Ganz, who hosted the event, implored Americans to stay resilient and courageous. "Raise your head. We must fight against our enemies and stand unwavering. With faith in God, we will navigate the right path. We stand together: strong America, strong Israel," he declared.
The prayers in Shiloh resonated with a sense of urgency as well as gratitude for the support Israel has received from millions of Americans, especially within the Christian community. The bond between Israel and the United States extends beyond mere diplomatic ties, grounded instead in shared spiritual heritage and moral values.
Israel Prays For The United States
— Netanel Worthy - נתנאל וורתי (@NetanelWorthy) November 3, 2024
Three days before the U.S. elections, the Binyamin Regional Council, led by Governor Yisrael Ganz, held a special prayer for the success of the elections in the United States.
The prayer took place in Ancient Shiloh, attended by Governor… pic.twitter.com/Yd5JHC6IvF
An Inspired Message to the United States
Eliana Passentin, International Desk Director of the Benjamin Regional Council, shared how the idea for this gathering took shape. “I was speaking with friends in Congress and other leaders abroad, and I told them, ‘I’m praying for America’s success from my home in Eli, looking down at Shiloh.’ They were stunned, especially given our own challenges and the war we are facing.”
Her words sparked a surge of support from Christian and Jewish allies worldwide. "They couldn’t believe we were setting aside our own struggles to pray for America. But how could we not? This was our way of saying thank you for your prayers, for standing with us. Now, we pray for your peace and prosperity."
The event, marked by sincerity and solidarity, reflected a profound respect for the mutual support shared between the two nations. “Our friends in the U.S. have been steadfast in their support, and now it’s our turn to pray for their success,” Passentin explained.
Watch: Special prayer in ancient Shiloh for America's success in election https://t.co/35NboLo3mQ
— Sharon K. Gilbert (@sharonkgilbert) November 3, 2024
A Joyful Conclusion: Shofar Blasts and Dancing
The gathering concluded with a powerful blast of the shofar, symbolizing resilience and hope. This was followed by jubilant dancing and singing, as participants chanted, “Our Father lives, the people of Israel live.”
For those present, it was more than a ceremony—it was an embodiment of a vision for the future. Bound by faith and unity, the prayers in Shiloh captured the enduring spirit of the U.S.-Israel relationship and the shared values that anchor it.
