Yalkut Shimoni & the Temple Mount - Let's Not Be Forlorn

The Yalkut Shimoni is a commentary on the Tanakh first published in 1521 but compiled in the early 13th century.

As the Temple Mount Movement pointed out in their weekly political ad in Makor Rishon, there is an interesting link up between our troubles with Yishmael, symbolizing the Arabs, and the Temple Mount.

At the end of this week's Biblical portion, the YS writes:

וישכנו מחוילה עד שור וגו' הכא את אמר נפל ולהלן את אמר ישכון אלא כל ימים שהיה אברהם אבינו חי ישכון וכיון שמת אברהם אבינו נפל. עד שלא פשט ידו בבית המקדש ישכון כיון שפשט ידו בבית המקדש נפל. בעולם הזה ישכון אבל לעתיד לבוא נפל:

Translation:
[On the verse Genesis 25:18] "They lived from Chavilah to Shur, which borders on Egypt, going towards Asshur. He lived in the presence of all his brethren,", the Hebrew word used for 'live' is "fall" and the YS comments that not until he stretched out his hand, i.e., acted aggressively, towards the Temple did he fall, i/e/, descend in importance and material and spiritual value.

The Islamists insist on denying Jews their rights to the Temple Mount and the state authorities aid in this shame. Jewish antiquities are destroyed. Jordan now wants to build a fifth minaret. Plans are being prepared for a synagogue up there. Things could get out of control.

But an ancient Midrashic commentary seems to indicate that not all is to be viewed forlornly.