Thousands of Baal Shem Tov Followers Join Historic Selichot Prayer with Leading Rabbis in Jerusalem

The grand Beit Midrash hall of the Belz Hasidic dynasty in Jerusalem hosted an unprecedented and deeply moving Selichot prayer event attended by thousands of baalei teshuva (returnees to religious observance). These young men, many recently beginning their path in Torah and mitzvot, filled the massive hall to capacity for this historic gathering.

The event opened with an inspiring speech by Rabbi Yitzchak David Grossman, the chief rabbi of Migdal HaEmek, who praised the spiritual stature of those returning to religious life, emphasizing their unique merit even beyond that of fully righteous individuals. His heartfelt words prepared the crowd for the evening’s climax.

As the hall’s doors opened, the Belz Rebbe appeared alongside the Sephardi Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef, and Rabbi Grossman, to the sound of communal singing. Their joint presence underscored the unity and love within the ultra-Orthodox community toward those returning to their faith.

The Selichot prayers began with a powerful collective voice, as thousands recited the 13 Attributes of Mercy with intense emotion and tears of sincere repentance. The atmosphere was charged with spiritual elevation as participants prepared for the Days of Judgment.

Following the prayers, Rabbi Grossman delivered a special encouragement speech, commending the participants for their courageous dedication to Torah and mitzvot despite challenges. The event concluded with a heartfelt "Mi Sheberach" prayer by Rabbi Yosef for the health and longevity of the Belz Rebbe, which was met with a thunderous "Amen" from the assembled crowd, uniting all hearts in prayer.