Hasidic Rebbes Perform Rituals, Attend Services Ahead of Jewish New Year

As the Jewish year 5776 drew to a close, several Hasidic Rebbes from Bnei Brak performed the ancient ritual of nullifying vows, known as "Hatarat Nedarim," to enter the new year free of any oaths. Some Rebbes conducted the ceremony before elder Hasidim, while others did so before rabbinical judges. Photographer Shuki Lerer documented these solemn moments from various Hasidic courts, including those of Nadvorna, Pshevorsk, Sadigura, Makonov-Belz, Temeshwar, and Modzhitz.

During the Rosh Hashanah holiday, thousands of Hasidim and followers gathered in synagogues across Bnei Brak to celebrate the High Holy Days in the presence of their Rebbes. Lerer also captured images from services and gatherings at the courts of Vizhnitz, Darag, Sadigura, Shevet Halevi, Makonov-Belz, Modzhitz, and Kozmir.

In a notable event, the Rebbe of Modzhitz experienced a cardiac episode on the first night of Rosh Hashanah and was taken to Maayanei Hayeshua Medical Center. Despite medical advice, he insisted on being hospitalized and was discharged the following morning to lead the prayers at his synagogue. The Hasidic community is praying for his recovery.

Other events included the Rebbe of Sanz-Klausenburg returning to the United States after a visit to Israel, the Rebbe of Nadvorna visiting his synagogue in Kiryat Gat, and a birth occurring near the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov in Uman, Ukraine. A seven-year-old Israeli boy who went missing in Uman was found and reunited with his family.

Additionally, the article touches on preparations for the High Holy Days, including the significance of prayers, the practice of traveling to specific locations like Kfar Chabad before Rosh Hashanah, and spiritual guidance from figures like Rabbi Nachman of Breslov and the Baal Shem Tov. The article also briefly mentions a political development within the Agudat Yisrael party, involving a split between the Belz and Shlomi Emunim factions.