Tens of Thousands Attend Major Haredi Celebration in Petah Tikva

Tens of thousands of people attended the 'Great Rejoicing of the Water Drawing Festival' hosted by the Mishkoltz Hasidic dynasty in Petah Tikva, held at the city's large Colony Stadium. The event, which took place under the auspices of the Petah Tikva Municipality, was led by Rabbi Mordechai Hager, the Rebbe of Mishkoltz, considered a spiritual leader in the city. Attendees included the Mayor of Petah Tikva, Rami Greenberg, senior police officials, rabbis, and public figures.

The highlight of the evening was a speech by the Rebbe, who discussed the holiday, the importance of Torah study for the protection of the Jewish people, and the concept of those who hinder Torah learning being the true 'deserters.' He emphasized that strengthening Torah study and observance of commandments would lead to salvation from all evil and war, and bring about the redemption. The Rebbe cited Talmudic and Midrashic sources to illustrate the vital role of Torah study in the existence and protection of the Jewish people, using parables to explain that worldly pursuits are secondary to Torah.

He further recounted the story of Rabbi Akiva and Pappus ben Judah from the Talmud, illustrating the dangers of abandoning Torah study and the merit of being persecuted for its sake. The Rebbe concluded by congratulating the yeshiva students and scholars present, stating, 'Fortunate are you, yeshiva students and kollel members studying Torah day and night, that you are apprehended for the words of Torah!' The event concluded with the recitation of 'Shema Yisrael,' drawing many closer to God.

Mayor Rami Greenberg expressed the municipality's pleasure in sponsoring the event, calling the Mishkoltz Rebbe a 'light' and a source of pride for Petah Tikva. The celebration featured performances by Israeli and international singers, accompanied by large orchestras. Hundreds of police officers secured the event, while the Badatz Mishkoltz kashrut organization provided supervision for modesty and holiness. Thousands of attendees also sought blessings from the Rebbe after the event, who is known for his wisdom and the efficacy of his blessings derived from his dedication to Torah.