Jerusalem's Meron: Thousands Attend Lag B'Omer Celebration for Shimon HaTzaddik
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Thousands of worshippers gathered in Jerusalem over the weekend for the annual pilgrimage and celebration honoring the sage Shimon HaTzaddik. The event, now likened to a secondary Meron pilgrimage, saw children undergo their first haircutting ceremonies. An influential Kabbalist led a candle-lighting ceremony, and refreshments were provided to attendees.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Thousands of worshippers attended the annual pilgrimage for Shimon HaTzaddik in Jerusalem.
- The event has become a significant gathering, drawing crowds comparable to the Meron pilgrimage.
- Children participated in traditional first haircutting ceremonies at the site.
- An influential Kabbalist, Rabbi Avraham Abish Tzinnevir, led a candle-lighting ceremony.
- Refreshments were served, and special road preparations were made for the pilgrims.
Thousands of worshippers flocked to Jerusalem over the weekend for the annual pilgrimage and celebration (hillula) commemorating the righteous sage Shimon HaTzaddik, who is buried in the holy city. This event has increasingly become a significant gathering, drawing crowds comparable to the famous Meron pilgrimage.
Among the attendees were many children reaching the age of three, who participated in the traditional first haircutting ceremony, known as 'chalaka,' at the site. The festivities also included a special candle-lighting ceremony led by the influential Kabbalist Rabbi Avraham Abish Tzinnevir, accompanied by singing and chanting.
Light refreshments were served to the thousands of pilgrims. Roadways leading to the site were specially prepared and equipped with directional signs to assist the public during the pilgrimage.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Only Kikar HaShabbat so far.