One in Twelve Israeli Jews Has Visited Rabbi Nachman's Tomb in Ukraine

A recent poll by the Israel Democracy Institute reveals that approximately 8% of adult Israeli Jews, or about one in twelve, have visited the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov in Uman, Ukraine. This pilgrimage site traditionally draws tens of thousands of worshippers, particularly around Rosh Hashanah, and is strongly associated with the Breslov Hasidic movement.

The survey indicates that the pilgrimage is not limited to the Orthodox community. While nearly one in five Orthodox Israelis have made the journey, the figure is even higher among those identifying as "traditional," with 23% having visited Uman. The poll also highlighted demographic differences, with 13% of Mizrahi (Eastern) Israelis reporting a visit compared to 5% of Ashkenazi Israelis, despite Rabbi Nachman being from Eastern Europe.

Among those who have visited the tomb, 22.5% stated they return annually. Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, a prominent 18th and 19th-century rabbi and great-grandson of the founder of Hasidism, the Baal Shem Tov, continues to influence contemporary Judaism, with his teachings emphasizing joy and religious fervor.