Rosh Hashanah kibbutz

Origins and history

Rebbe Nachman of Breslov initiated this tradition during his lifetime, urging followers to gather with him in Breslov for the New Year. He viewed this time together as central to his mission. After his death in 1810, his disciple Nathan of Breslov organized the first pilgrimage to Uman in 1811. He encouraged the community to continue meeting at the Rebbe's gravesite annually. For decades, hundreds traveled from across Eastern Europe to join this event. The local synagogue eventually became too small, leading to the construction of a dedicated hall in 1834.

Soviet era challenges

The Bolshevik Revolution halted the pilgrimage by closing borders. During the Soviet period, public religious gatherings were banned. Hasidim met secretly or established smaller gatherings in Poland, Israel, and the United States. In 1934, authorities allowed a small group to visit Uman but arrested many participants. The main hall was converted into a factory. Despite these obstacles, small groups continued to meet clandestinely. Organizers like Michel Dorfman in Moscow coordinated these secret visits, risking surveillance and imprisonment to maintain the tradition.

Modern revival

The end of the Cold War opened Ukraine's borders, allowing the pilgrimage to resume openly. Attendance grew rapidly from hundreds to tens of thousands. Today, organizers provide kosher meals, temporary housing, and medical care for the large crowds. The gathering includes communal prayers, Torah classes in multiple languages, and the Tashlikh ceremony by the river. Participants often wear white clothing during processions. The event has also attracted Jewish seekers from various backgrounds, contributing to broader outreach movements.

Current dynamics

The massive influx of pilgrims creates friction with local residents in Uman. Issues include neighborhood cordoning by police and internal commercial activities among visitors. There are also reports of behavioral problems among some attendees. Religious authorities have occasionally debated the role of women at the site, citing concerns about maintaining focus during male prayer services. Despite these challenges, the kibbutz remains a vital spiritual anchor for the Breslover community worldwide.

How Rosh Hashanah kibbutz is kept

Breslover Hasidim travel to Uman, Ukraine, for the Jewish New Year. They gather at the gravesite of Rebbe Nachman for prayer and study. The event features communal meals, Torah lessons in several languages, and the Tashlikh ritual by the river. Participants stay in temporary lodgings provided by organizers. The pilgrimage involves significant travel and planning, reflecting its deep spiritual importance to those who attend.

When and where

The kibbutz occurs annually on Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year. The date follows the Hebrew calendar, typically falling in September or October. The timing marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, a period dedicated to reflection and repentance within Jewish tradition.

The primary location is Uman, Ukraine, specifically at the cemetery containing Rebbe Nachman's grave. Smaller gatherings also take place in Jerusalem, Meron, Lublin, Moscow, and New York City. These alternative sites serve communities unable to travel to Ukraine due to distance or political restrictions.

What Rosh Hashanah kibbutz means

Gathering at the tzaddik's grave is believed to help sweeten heavenly decrees for the new year. The pilgrimage represents a return to spiritual roots and a commitment to self-rectification. Being present with the leader, even after death, signifies loyalty and continuity. The shofar blast calls the flock together, emphasizing unity and shared destiny among the participants.

Questions people ask about Rosh Hashanah kibbutz

See also

PassoverA Jewish spring festival celebrating freedom from slavery with ritual mealsYom KippurThe holiest day in Judaism, dedicated to fasting, prayer and atonementRosh HashanahThe Jewish New Year marked by shofar horn blasts, prayer and sweet foodsSukkotA seven-day autumn Jewish festival of temporary booths, harvest prayers and hospitality

Good reading and sources

• Rosh Hashanah kibbutz on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-13.