Uman Prepares for Rosh Hashanah Amidst War: Jewish Pilgrims from Around the World Plan to Gather Despite Challenges
As the festive period of Rosh Hashanah approaches, scheduled from September 22 to 24 this year, the city of Uman in Cherkasy region is once again bubbling with anticipation and concern surrounding the massive influx of Jewish pilgrims.
Their main destination is the grave of Rabbi Nahman, a sacred site for thousands of Hasidic followers who travel from all over the globe to participate in what has become a pivotal spiritual tradition.
However, recent events linked to the ongoing war, especially the Russian invasion of Ukraine, complicate these plans significantly.
Ukraine continues to confront full-scale military conflict, which raises serious safety issues for pilgrims.
According to reports published on August 31 by the reputable Israeli publication The Times of Israel, Ukrainian authorities are contemplating restrictions or even bans on pilgrimages to Uman to ensure the safety of visitors.
This has sparked debates and divergent opinions among officials, religious leaders, and the community.
Despite these uncertainties, many pilgrims remain determined to undertake the journey, viewing it not just as a religious obligation but as a spiritual necessity that transcends the dangers.
Past years have demonstrated that tens of thousands of Jews, regardless of the wartime circumstances, have entered Ukraine via Moldova to pray at Rabbi Nahman’s grave.
Ukrainian officials have expressed concern over the absence of adequate shelters and emergency facilities in Ukraine, citing threats posed by ongoing hostilities.
Moreover, Israel has promised financial aid and logistical support to secure transportation and safety procedures for the pilgrims.
Moldova, for its part, demands guarantees such as financial contributions for creating a temporary air-traffic terminal and deploying police along flight routes and religious processions.
They emphasize that Israel must transfer the necessary funds by September 3 for the operation to proceed.
Initially, reports about these plans were circulated by journalist Barak Ravid of Axios, citing an unnamed Ukrainian official; however, the Israeli Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Oren Marmorsthein, later clarified that no policy changes regarding the pilgrimage have been made, and the situation remains under control.
Rabbi Natan Ben-Nun from Bnei Brak’s community in Uman also confirmed that all preparations are proceeding smoothly, with safety measures in place, and that the pilgrimage will take place as usual.
The Israeli government has allocated 10 million shekels for flights and security measures, and Israeli police officers are expected to be present during the festivities, ensuring order and safety.
Additionally, Ukraine has reclassified the memorial site of Rabbi Nahman from a local to a national historical monument, emphasizing its significance and Ukraine’s commitment to protecting this heritage.
Experts and community leaders alike emphasize that although the situation remains tense, preparations are underway for a safe and meaningful celebration of Rosh Hashanah in Uman.
All parties involved are committed to safeguarding the lives and traditions of Jewish pilgrims, despite the ongoing conflict.
With these arrangements, the 2023 pilgrimage season promises to be conducted with utmost caution yet determination, highlighting the resilience and spiritual dedication of the Jewish community worldwide.