This year, Uman is witnessing the largest gathering of Hasidic pilgrims for Rosh Hashanah in recent years. On September 11, a mass prayer known as Tikkun HaKlali took place at the site of the old Jewish cemetery, attended by over 15,000 worshippers according to estimates from the Association of Jewish Organizations and Communities of Ukraine (OJCU).
Tikkun HaKlali, which translates to “comprehensive correction,” involves the recitation of ten Psalms of King David, serving as a form of repentance.
On Friday evening, the OJCU reported that the situation in the pilgrimage area remained calm. Law enforcement is on guard, with patrol officers, dialogue police, and special police units ensuring public order. They are supported by dog handlers, bomb disposal experts, State Emergency Service rescuers, and soldiers from the National Guard of Ukraine, alongside Israeli police who are assisting.
Every year, Hasidim from around the globe travel to Uman to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, as it is the burial site of Rabbi Nachman, the leader of the Breslov Hasidim. This year’s celebrations will continue from September 11 to 13.
In July, Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged pilgrims to consider the security situation in the country before traveling.
