Thousands of Belz Hasidim Wait Hours for Prayers as Rebbe Hospitalized

Thousands of Belz Hasidim gathered at the Great Beit Midrash in Kiryat Belz, Jerusalem, for the first Selichot prayers, only to wait for hours for their Rebbe, Rabbi Yissachar Dov Rokach. It was later revealed that the Rebbe had been taken to Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital and admitted for tests due to a drop in potassium levels and deteriorating vital signs.

The Rebbe, who has suffered from weakness since a stroke several years ago and often uses a wheelchair, was undergoing a CT scan to assess his condition. His hospitalization followed initial tests at the hospital. The unexpected medical emergency caused significant concern among the thousands of followers who had arrived early in the morning, anticipating his leadership of the Selichot service.

After approximately five hours of anxious waiting, the Hasidim began the prayers without their Rebbe, amidst an atmosphere of heavy worry. Simultaneously, upon receiving official confirmation of his hospitalization, many congregants began reciting Psalms for his complete recovery. The community has been urged to pray for Rabbi Yissachar Dov ben Miriam.

No further official details regarding the specific medical reason for the tests and admission have been released by the Hasidut or the hospital. The Rebbe is considered one of the most prominent and influential leaders in the Hasidic world, heading one of the largest Hasidic courts in Israel. The wider Haredi and traditional public is also calling for increased prayers for his swift recovery.