Hasidic Rebbes Lead Selichot Services Across Israel and Abroad

Hasidic communities in Israel and abroad marked the beginning of the Selichot (penitential prayers) services with gatherings led by their Rebbes. In Jerusalem, the Sanz-Klausenburg Rebbe led a deeply emotional service, delivering a fiery sermon before the prayers. Thousands of Bobov-45 Hasidim convened in Boro Park, Brooklyn, for their first Selichot, where a directive was issued to recite Psalm 20 for the recovery of the Vizhnitz Rebbe.

The Vizhnitz Rebbe himself, currently in Bnei Brak, received elders of his community ahead of the High Holy Days. The Skulener Rebbe of Lakewood led Selichot, wrapped in his father's tallit, followed by blessings for the new year. In Meron, Rabbi Elimelech Biderman led a fervent Selichot service that extended into the early morning hours.

Tens of thousands of Satmar Hasidim gathered in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, for Selichot in their newly renovated and expanded synagogue. In Ashdod, the "Yessodot Moshe" synagogue was inaugurated with joyous celebrations. The Belz community faced uncertainty as their Rebbe was hospitalized for tests, leading to widespread prayers for his recovery.

Other notable events included the Skulen-Lakewood Rebbe officiating at a wedding in Kiryat Gat, Rabbi Yaakov Meir Shachter leading Selichot and Shofar blasts in Jerusalem, and the Zwohil Hasidim adopting a new charter to combat technological dangers. The Vizhnitz Rebbe's son delivered a powerful address about his father's health struggles before the Selichot service. The Alexander Rebbe visited Emmanuel to encourage his followers and inaugurate a new study hall.

Additionally, the Pinsk Karlin Rebbe led Selichot in Jerusalem, with prayers also offered for the Vizhnitz Rebbe. The Kretschneif Rebbe led services in Rehovot. The article also touches upon various other Hasidic events, including stories about the Baal Shem Tov and discussions on political matters within the Hasidic world, such as potential leadership changes in the Degel HaTorah and Agudat Yisrael parties.