There is a widespread custom of placing a piece of paper with a written message into the cracks of the Kotel HaMaaravi (the Western Wall) in Jerusalem as a way to send a message to God.

This practice is not rooted in ancient Jewish tradition and is a relatively modern development. There is no mention of placing notes in the Kotel in older Jewish sources. Interestingly, similar customs can be found in other cultures. For example, at a site in Ephesus near Izmir, Turkey—believed by some to be the burial place of Saint Mary—visitors leave notes outside a cave. A similar tradition exists in the Shinto temples of Tokyo, where prayers and messages are left in designated areas.

While placing notes in the Kotel is a harmless and meaningful act for many, understanding its origins reminds us to differentiate between practices rooted in Jewish tradition and those that developed organically over time. Knowing the true sources of our customs helps us focus on the deeper, more enduring aspects of our spiritual connection.