Visitors to the Cave of Elijah in Haifa were shocked to discover this week the desecration of holy items at the site, which is currently under construction. Photos received by the Israel Hayom real estate supplement shows sacred objects scattered around the cave and rolls of toilet paper stacked on top of Torah scrolls. Some scrolls were also found strewn around on the floor, with Elijah's chair used as scaffolding.
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Amir Harel, who took the photos, said the moment he saw the desecration he burst into tears.
"The place is revered by millions of Jews. My grandmother used to bring me here when I was a child … I turned to the guard, but he told me the workers disregard the sanctity of the place and the Jewish objects, and reported it, but to no avail."
Harel added that generations made great sacrifices to be able to come to Israel and "have the privilege to visit the Cave of Elijah and read from the Torah scroll that is now on the floor."
Earlier this week, the Haifa municipality announced the site would reopen to visitors in the spring.
Last week, during a tour of the site that included Rabbi of the Western Wall Shmuel Rabinovitch and benefactor Alberto Kochav, Mayor Einat Klish Rotem presented the progress of the renovation works.
She said, among other things, that "We succeeded in increasing the budget for the restoration and accessibility work in the cave. The site will be able to hold three times more visitors."
Construction of the Cave of Elijah began two years ago. The 15 million shekel project will see the establishment of a visitors center, souvenir shop, event hall, and cafeteria. The site will also be made fully accessible for people with disabilities.
The photos were forwarded to the Haifa municipality, which said the incident was "indeed shocking," but the construction was not their "responsibility."
The Israel Hayom real estate supplement reached out to the Religious Services Ministry for comment.
"The issue will be addressed urgently," it said in response.
According to Jewish tradition, the cave is where prophet Elijah took shelter during a journey into the wilderness.
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