Uman prepares to host Hasidim: security aspects will be maximised
10 September 2024 22:47
About 40,000 pilgrims are preparing to arrive in Uman. Pilgrims are warned of the dangers associated with the war in Ukraine. This was stated by the head of the Cherkasy Regional Administration of the UDA Igor Taburets, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
“As in previous years of war, we first of all recommend that believers consider the security situation in our country and refrain from visiting Uman. Regular Russian attacks and destruction of civilian objects, provocations are not just scaremongering, but Ukrainian everyday life, unfortunately…” Taburets said.
At the same time, he noted, the UOA understands that some believers, like last year, will still decide to come.
“However, we understand that, despite the warnings, some believers will still visit the place of worship. So we have to be prepared. Together with the local authorities, the heads of our security sector, the medical industry and public utilities, we are working on all the issues,” said the head of the Cherkasy Regional Administration.
According to the official, the local authorities have already started preventive preparations.
“The measures are comprehensive. Of course, the security aspects will be strengthened as much as possible. We will inform you about them in the future. The emphasis is also on shelters. We are finalising this point with the relevant services – this was emphasised at today’s special commission. We are also working on other areas: from medical care to sanitary and epidemiological well-being. During the pilgrimage, we will deploy an operational headquarters on site to coordinate the work,” Taburets said.
In 2024, the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, will be celebrated from 2 to 4 October, but pilgrims are expected as early as September.
Every year, tens of thousands of Jews who profess one of the streams of Judaism, Hasidism, make a pilgrimage to Uman, where the grave of the founder of Bratslav Hasidism, Tzadik Nachman, who lived in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, is located. The pilgrimage is timed to coincide with the celebration of the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, which this year is celebrated from 2 to 4 October.
The Hasidim believe that if they celebrate Rosh Hashanah at the grave of Tzadik Nachman, the next year will be very happy for them.
