Satmar Rebbe Performs Traditional Rituals and Visits Hasidic Communities Ahead of Elul

In a series of significant religious events, the Satmar Rebbe conducted the mitzvah of "shiluach haken" (sending away the mother bird) late at night at his home in Kiryas Joel, Monroe. Using a long stick, he drove away the mother bird after reciting the traditional blessing, appointing a scholar to remove the eggs from the nest. This rare and sacred ritual was witnessed by many devoted followers.

Simultaneously, the opening of the Elul study period took place at the Sanz-Zhmigrad kollels in Jerusalem, where the Rebbe made a surprise visit. The hall was packed with learners from various Jewish sectors, including Hasidim, Litvaks, and Sephardim. The Rebbe also met with his brother, Rabbi Shlomo Simcha Halberstam, the community rabbi.

Other notable events included the Satmar Rebbe's visits to four summer camps in the Catskills to mark the end of the study period, and the celebration of a Torah scroll dedication by the Zvhil Hasidim in Jerusalem, which involved street closures and a festive procession. Additionally, the Rebbe of Sanz-Kloiznburg was seen praying and blowing the shofar in Jerusalem, surrounded by followers.

Preparations for a grand wedding of the eldest son of the Zutshka Rebbe were underway, with joyous gatherings and new melodies marking the occasion. Meanwhile, the Satmar community issued a strict dress code banning denim for girls at the Beit Rachel school, emphasizing modesty.

The Rebbe of Sanz also embarked on a blessing tour across twelve Hasidic centers in Israel during the first week of Elul, receiving city officials and blessing his followers for a good year. In Monsey, the Satmar Rebbe held a special tish (festive meal) commemorating the yahrtzeit of his grandfather, the "Yetev Lev". These events reflect the vibrant spiritual life and communal solidarity of the Hasidic world as the High Holy Days approach.