Haredi Community Celebrates High Holy Days with Large Gatherings and Spiritual Events

Tens of thousands of Hasidim and religious individuals converged in Bnei Brak for Rosh Hashanah, participating in spiritual gatherings and services led by their Rebbes. The events, documented by photographer Shuki Lerer, included ceremonies at the courts of Vizhnitz, Darrag, Sadigura, Shevet Halevi, Mohnovitz, Belz, Modzitz, and Kozmir.

During the holiday, the Rebbe of Modzitz experienced a cardiac episode and was hospitalized. Despite medical advice, he insisted on being admitted to Maayanei Hayeshua Medical Center and discharged himself to lead prayers on the first morning of Rosh Hashanah, prompting calls for prayers for his recovery.

Other notable events included the Rebbe of Sanz-Klausenburg returning to the United States after a visit to Israel, where he prayed at the Western Wall and visited other holy sites. The Rebbe of Nadvorna made his first visit to his synagogue in Kiryat Gat, inspecting the new building and meeting with congregants.

In Uman, Ukraine, a seven-year-old Israeli boy who went missing was found and reunited with his parents. Additionally, a birth occurred near the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, with both mother and baby reported in good condition.

Within the political sphere, a new party registration by Agudat Yisrael, involving the Belz and Shlomei Emunim factions, has caused internal friction, with accusations of division. The factions claim the move is a necessary step to reclaim the party from those who have appropriated it.

Several Rebbes were reported to have been briefly hospitalized due to weakness but were subsequently released after tests showed normal results. These included the Rebbes of Vizhnitz and Belz, with prayers continuing for their full recovery.