Jews, particularly Hasidim, have been traveling to Uman, Ukraine for Rosh Hashanah for several decades by the tens of thousands. This annual pilgrimage has deep historical and spiritual significance tied to the presence of the grave or ‘kever’ of Rebbi Nachman of Breslov, the founder of the Breslov Hasidic movement.
Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, who lived in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, emphasized the power of personal prayer, joy, and repentance. He designated Rosh Hashanah as an auspicious time for spiritual introspection and renewal. The tradition of visiting his gravesite in Uman during this time grew out of the belief that being near a righteous person’s burial place can enhance one’s prayers and connection to God. It is important to note that no one is praying to the person but rather praying with a particular focus of that important person’s qualities and teachings.
For Hasidim and followers of Breslov, traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah is a deeply meaningful experience, though many other groups of Jews go to experience the excitement found there these days. Here are some reasons why this pilgrimage is undertaken:
- Connection to Rabbi Nachman: Hasidim believe that being in close proximity to Rabbi Nachman’s grave during Rosh Hashanah allows for a unique spiritual connection, as he made this exact claim about his final resting place during his lifetime. They seek his unique qualities and connection to his teachings as they engage in prayer, introspection, and repentance.
- Community and Unity: Uman becomes a gathering place for thousands of Jews from different countries and backgrounds. This creates a sense of unity and camaraderie among pilgrims, reinforcing a shared commitment to spiritual growth and observance during Rosh Hashanah. Nowadays, kosher venues of all sorts, live spiritual music and much more liveliness is an attractive offer to all self-identifications of Jews. Especiallyfor Jews who do not live in large communities, this is an opportunity to engage in learning, singing, and festive eating that is otherwise not available.
- Joyous Celebration: The pilgrimage to Uman is marked by a festive atmosphere. Hasidim and others engage in lively singing, dancing, and prayers, creating an environment of joy and celebration amidst the introspection of the holiday.
- Historical Significance: While likely nobody’s primary reason to make the trip, Uman holds historical significance as the site of a decisive battle between the Cossacks and the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1648. This battle resulted in significant loss of Jewish life, and visiting Uman can serve as a connection to Jewish history in a way to show that the Jewish spirit is eternally resiliant.
Uman itself offers a range of accommodations, from hotels to rented apartments, to cater to the influx of visitors. Local businesses also adapt to the needs of the Jewish community during this time, providing kosher food options and other services.
The pilgrimage to Uman has occasionally sparked controversy due to logistical challenges, differing religious beliefs, and political considerations. However, for the Breslovers, followers of Rabbi Nachman, Uman remains a deeply meaningful and spiritually significant destination for observing Rosh Hashanah, no matter what else is happening.
During the Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage to Uman, one can expect to see thousands of Hasidim dressed in traditional holiday attire, engaging in fervent prayer and song at Rabbi Nachman’s gravesite. The atmosphere is one of spiritual intensity and joyous celebration, with numerous study sessions, intense prayer, and communal meals taking place throughout the holiday.
