In an uplifting atmosphere and with supreme joy, all those present in Uman, Ukraine, celebrated the Rashbi's jubilation, in a dignified and moving lighting ceremony in the courtyard of the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.
According to the Gabbai HaZion, Rabbi Nathan Tzemach, this year an unprecedented, border-breaking joy was felt in the place, surpassing recent years.
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All residents of the Jewish community and those staying in Uman gathered at the Zion Courtyard, until the complex was filled to capacity with a large crowd that came to rejoice on the Rashbi's joyous day.
In preparation for the event, Breslav Union employees worked to prepare the lighting site to accommodate participants in the best and safest way possible. As part of the preparations, a designated area in the Zion courtyard was prepared for the lighting, and large quantities of olive oil and cotton were purchased in advance.
On the eve of the celebration, logistical preparations were completed, including the erection of partitions and the arrangement of designated, orderly areas for women, both in the lighting yard and inside the Binyamin Hall. All this, along with the hanging of appropriate directional signage and the installation of a powerful amplification system.
At the same time, the Breslav Union made sure to arrange in advance the necessary permits for lighting with the local authorities in Uman. Among other things, prior coordination was made with the local fire services for payment.
Several hours before the lighting, fire department representatives arrived at the scene to inspect closely and ensure that the lighting was done safely and did not pose a risk to participants. In addition, a fire truck was stationed near the grave of Rabbi Nachman throughout the event.
As darkness fell, the participants filled the lighting area. The general public was able to take a real part in the mitzvah, as the crowds poured olive oil and placed cotton wool inside the barrel that was placed in the center of the courtyard. The right to light the torch itself, the proceeds of which were dedicated to the maintenance of the holy site and to cover the many expenses of the celebration, was sold on the spot for a high price to the one who had earned the mitzvah and had the honor of raising the torch.
As the fire was lit, a tremendous singing erupted. The dancing circles around the bonfire lasted for a long time, with the boisterous dancing continuing continuously for about three hours.
The musical and artistic side was entrusted to the residents of the Jewish community in Uman, who captivated the audience with their music and powerful singing that excited all participants to rejoice in the joy of the Tanna.
In parallel with the immense joy of lighting the lamp in the Zion Courtyard, a celebratory meal was held inside the outer Zion Hall in honor of the Rashbi.
During the event, an exciting 'halaka' ceremony was held for a child who had just turned three, and the audience danced and rejoiced with him. The joy of Lag BaOmer is expected to continue into the day, with another lighting planned for the afternoon with the groom of the halaka, which will also be accompanied, God willing, by dancing and joy in honor of the Rashbi.
