Jewish Pilgrim Found Dead Near Rabbi Nachman's Tomb in Uman

The body of a Jewish pilgrim, approximately 45 years old and a father of seven, was discovered in a forest near the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov in Uman, Ukraine. The organization "Ichud Hatzalah" reported the incident on Sunday evening, September 13th. The deceased was a Hasid who had traveled from England.

Ukrainian police are investigating all possible causes of death, including the possibility of murder. Aaron Ben-Harush, head of the "Ichud Hatzalah" delegation in Uman, stated that the organization's emergency headquarters received a report about the body found in the woods. "We dispatched "Ichud Hatzalah" medical teams working throughout the city to the scene. Unfortunately, they could only confirm the man's death," Ben-Harush said.

Representatives from ZAKA and "Ichud Hatzalah" are cooperating with Ukrainian authorities to expedite the return of the body for burial. Uman is a major pilgrimage site for Breslov Hasidim, housing the grave of Rabbi Nachman, who died in 1810. Tens of thousands of Jews from around the world visit annually, particularly for Rosh Hashanah.

The tradition of pilgrimage began after Rabbi Nachman's death, with his student Rabbi Natan organizing the first mass visit in 1811. The practice declined during the Soviet era but revived after the fall of communism. This year, a record 52,000 pilgrims are expected in Uman for Rosh Hashanah.