Miron Rabbi Urges Respectful Dress at Rashbi Tomb Ahead of Bein Hazmanim Holidays

As the Bein Hazmanim vacation approaches and thousands prepare to visit northern Israeli cities, Rabbi Elazar Stern, the chief rabbinical judge of the Miron holy site, issued an urgent call to maintain the sanctity of the Rashbi tomb in Miron. Rabbi Stern highlighted a troubling trend during summer visits where many come to pray at Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai's grave wearing inappropriate attire, including short clothing or swimwear, which he described as disrespectful to this sacred site.

In his heartfelt appeal, Rabbi Stern recounted the revered story of Rabbi Chaim Ben Attar, the "Or HaChaim," who upon arriving at the Rashbi tomb was overwhelmed with awe and fear, exclaiming his unworthiness to enter such a holy place. While acknowledging that most do not possess the spiritual vision or fear of the Or HaChaim, Rabbi Stern emphasized the importance of using reason and heart to understand the need for dignified dress when entering this profoundly holy site.

He called on Torah scholars especially to wear proper upper garments as a sign of respect. Rabbi Stern concluded with the verse, "Those who honor Me, I will honor; but those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed," underscoring that honoring the sanctity of the place invites divine acceptance of prayers with mercy and favor.

This year, as in the past, the call is being reissued alongside endorsements from other northern rabbis to reinforce the message and instill reverence among all visitors to Miron during the holiday period.