Jerusalem Becomes Rosh Hashanah Hub for Thousands Following Rabbi's Lead

Approximately 2,000 individuals participated in Rosh Hashanah prayers led by Rabbi Yitzhak Meir Morgenstern, known as the Admor of "Torat Chacham." The services were held in a special hall established by the Satmar community in Jerusalem's Ezrat Torah street. Many followers opted to stay in Jerusalem for the holiday, foregoing the traditional pilgrimage to Uman, Ukraine, at the Admor's request to hold the main gathering in the capital.

The first night's services began with Maariv prayers at 10 PM, with the Amidah prayer lasting about two hours. Following the prayers, thousands approached the Admor for blessings. Morning prayers on both days of the holiday commenced at 8:30 AM and concluded late in the evening.

On the first day, which fell on Shabbat when the shofar is not blown, the Admor led a special "intentions for the blasts" ceremony accompanied by devotional songs. The second day featured two circumcisions before the shofar blowing, which itself lasted an hour. During the shofar blasts, the congregation played long melodies while the Admor focused on the spiritual intentions.

Holiday meals were served in a local hall, with attendees quickly returning to the prayer hall for Mincha prayers before sunset. On the second day, after Mincha, the Admor sang specific liturgical poems multiple times. The Tashlich ceremony was performed by the Admor and the congregation with special melodies before evening prayers on the second night. The holiday concluded with a Tish, a gathering with singing and spiritual discussion, led by the Admor.