Orthodox Jews, members of a branch of Judaism that strictly follows traditional Jewish law, customs, and practices as outlined in their scriptures, typically wear a kippah, a small head covering as a sign of respect for God.

During prayers, they also wear a tallit or prayer shawl, as a reminder of Jewish commandments, and tefillin, two small boxes containing Torah verses attached to leather straps. One box is placed on the forehead, while the other is wrapped around the arm, symbolizing devotion to God and adherence to Jewish law.

They are gathered for Par-shat Beshalach, a Jewish holiday marking the end of the ‘Elders Era’, the passing of the last of the contemporaries of Joshua. This is accompanied by the reading of Exodus 13:17-14:8 and was historically observed as a fast day.