RAV KOOK ON Rebuilding the Temple

A brief notice posted in a small magazine ("The Christian") in England generated a great stir in the London Zionist office. The London office quickly dashed off a request for an immediate clarification to the Zionist executive in Jerusalem. And the surprised Jerusalem executive committee forwarded the inquiry to the Chief Rabbi. The Zionist office quoted the original London article, dated Dec. 22, 1921: “A matter of great significance to the public has been reported from Jerusalem. Chief Rabbi Kook has announced that a new yeshiva or seminary will be established in the holy city, with the goal of instructing men of priestly or Levite descent regarding their Temple duties. The studies will include rites connected to the Temple sacrifices. “The rabbi believes that this matter is extremely pressing, as he is convinced that, with [the state of] the world at this time, the Jews will once again offer sacrifices to God. Indeed, such a possibility has been long expected by those with insight into Jewish sensitivities, knowledgeable in the prophecies of the Messianic Era.” The Jerusalem executive demanded a response. What was going on? Were there imminent plans to rebuild the Temple and reinstate the Temple service?