Survey: Two thirds of Israelis want Temple rebuilt

Two thirds of Israelis have indicated they would like the Temple in Jerusalem to be rebuilt, including Israelis who describe themselves as secular. The survey, conducted for ‘Ynet’ and the organization Gesher, asked 516 Israelis if they knew the meaning of Tish B’Av and if they would like to see the Temple restored. Ninety-seven percent knew the meaning of the Fast of Tish B’Av, that it was the destruction of the Temple, while only two percent said they did not know. Sixty-four percent of those surveyed said they would like to see the Temple rebuilt, including secular Jews.

Gesher Director-General Danny Tropper said: "We are a nation with a remarkable historic affinity. The Temple was destroyed 1,942 years ago, and almost two thirds of the population want to see it rebuilt, including 47 percent of seculars. I don't think this is a practical proposal, but it seems that Tisha B'Av really does constitute a day of meaningful memory to most people."