Vizhnitz Rabbi's Son Pleads for Prayers Amid Father's Grave Illness
The Vizhnitz Hasidic community and the wider Hasidic world are continuing fervent prayers for the recovery of the Vizhnitz Rebbe, who is in serious condition and currently residing in Ora settlement. On Saturday morning, the Belz Rebbe, after being called up for the Torah reading, recited a "Mi Shebeirach" prayer for the complete healing of his brother-in-law, the Vizhnitz Rebbe, Rabbi Yisrael ben Leah Esther. On Friday evening, the Vizhnitz rabbinical court urged all Hasidim to recite the fourth chapter of Psalms on Saturday night for the Rebbe's recovery. His son, Rabbi Yaakov Mordechai Hager, head of the Vizhnitz rabbinical court in Elad, delivered an emotional plea to the Vizhnitz Hasidim and the Jewish people to pray for his father's health.
Speaking via the "Vizhnitz System" phone line, Rabbi Yaakov Mordechai described the situation as an "emergency cry from everywhere." He stated that the Rebbe's condition is "very far from good" and that he is undergoing difficult, weakening treatments. The Rebbe has been suffering from his illness for two years, experiencing severe pain. "We must have a healthy and strong Rebbe, and God forbid, we do not see the end, this is what the doctors are saying," he added.
Rabbi Yaakov Mordechai emphasized his father's constant connection to God, urging prayers, especially during this period when the "King is in the field," making it easier to appeal to the Almighty. He described the Rebbe's desire for a "happy year" (referencing a Hebrew acronym from a previous year's message) and his ability to remain joyful even in his current state.
In related news, the Vizhnitz Rebbe from Monsey visited the Rebbe in Ora last week. Only four companions were permitted to enter, and the two discussed for an extended period. The Rebbe will not be in Shikun for the Selichot prayers this Shabbat, but will arrive after Shabbat to lead the first Selichot service, with thousands of Hasidim expected to travel from across the country. Currently, Hasidim are arriving by organized transport to submit written requests (kvitlech) to the Rebbe in Ora, with pre-registration required from all cities.
