Hasidic Group Holds Annual Pilgrimage to Meron After Fundraising Drive

Thousands of adherents of the Toldot Aharon Hasidic sect participated in their annual pilgrimage to Meron, led by the Rebbe of Toldot Aharon. The event marked the conclusion of the sect's yearly fundraising campaign for its Torah and educational institutions, which raised millions of shekels.

Toldot Aharon's institutions, which do not accept government funding, rely entirely on donations from their members. Annual contributions range from 4,500 shekels to as much as 200,000 shekels per donor.

The pilgrimage, organized by the sect's central institutions, serves as a gesture of appreciation for the donors' commitment. During the event, thousands of Hasidim gathered at the tomb of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai in Meron for prayers and spiritual reflection. A special gathering, or 'tish,' was held near the tomb.

During the proceedings, prayers were offered for the recovery of the Rebbes of Mitzhnitz and Horodenka. A highlight of the event was the distribution of twelve loaves of challah by the Rebbe, believed by the followers to be a segulah, or spiritual remedy, for livelihood. For approximately two hours, Hasidim passed before the Rebbe to receive a challah and an apple for the new year.

This annual pilgrimage and fundraising effort underscores the deep devotion and financial commitment of the Toldot Aharon community to their religious and educational infrastructure.