Prominent Rabbi Questions Travel to Uman for Rosh Hashanah

Rabbi Yaakov Figenbaum, dean of the Makor Kodesh preparatory academy, has expressed reservations about the annual pilgrimage to Uman, Ukraine, for Rosh Hashanah. In a recent lesson, Rabbi Figenbaum examined the religious and spiritual arguments supporting travel to the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, while ultimately questioning the practice.

He began by addressing the prohibition against leaving the Land of Israel, citing sources that permit temporary departure for purposes such as Torah study, marriage, or economic needs. Rabbi Figenbaum emphasized that leaving the Holy Land, even for a short period, is a significant consideration. He also discussed the claim found in Breslov Hasidic texts that the sanctity of the tombs of righteous individuals is equivalent to that of the Land of Israel. The Rabbi disagreed with a literal interpretation of this, stating it's clear such sites are not considered part of the Land of Israel in a halachic sense, which would have implications for agricultural laws like tithes and the Sabbatical year.

Further, Rabbi Figenbaum explored whether praying at the graves of the righteous constitutes a commandment justifying departure from Israel. While acknowledging opinions that permit it, he contrasted this with the views of Rabbi Kook, who questioned why one would travel abroad when the tombs of the Patriarchs and many other righteous figures are located within Israel. He also addressed the promise attributed to Rabbi Nachman concerning those who visit his grave, give charity, and recite Psalms, expressing skepticism that this act alone could fundamentally alter a person's spiritual standing, deeming it disproportionate.

Finally, the Rabbi touched upon Rabbi Nachman's call for his followers to be with him for Rosh Hashanah. Rabbi Figenbaum noted that this call was made during Rabbi Nachman's lifetime and expressed uncertainty about its applicability after his death. While acknowledging the profound spiritual experiences reported by many pilgrims, he maintained that such feelings do not override the halachic considerations. He concluded by questioning why Rabbi Nachman's tomb is considered more important than the graves of revered figures like Maimonides and Rabbi Yosef Karo, who are buried in Israel.