Jerusalem Chief Rabbi Criticizes Annual Uman Pilgrimage for Rosh Hashana

Jerusalem Chief Rabbi Aryeh Stern has sparked controversy with his strong criticism of the annual pilgrimage of Israeli Jews to the Ukrainian city of Uman for Rosh Hashana. In a letter published on Monday, Stern expressed his disapproval of the mass exodus to the burial site of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, stating that the current generation is privileged to live in the Land of Israel and should focus on visiting holy sites within the country.

Despite claims that visiting Rabbi Nachman’s grave on Rosh Hashana brings blessings, Stern emphasized the holiness of the Land of Israel and the importance of praying at local holy sites such as the Western Wall and the Cave of the Patriarchs. He argued that there is no better place for prayer than in Israel, and that those living in the holy land should not feel the need to travel abroad for spiritual fulfillment.

Stern’s criticism is not unique, as other prominent rabbis, including the late Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, have also spoken out against the mass pilgrimage to Uman. Yosef, known for his expertise in Jewish law, encouraged men to stay in Israel and celebrate Rosh Hashana with their families instead of traveling abroad.

The debate over the annual pilgrimage to Uman highlights the tension between tradition and modernity within the Jewish community, as well as the ongoing discussion about the significance of physical pilgrimage versus spiritual connection to holy sites. As the controversy continues to unfold, it raises important questions about the role of tradition and religious practice in a rapidly changing world.