The decision to require isolation for returnees from Ukraine has put the Breslov Hasidim under tension - and many are now discussing in WhatsApp groups what to do.
Want to independently check the risk level of your family and loved ones?
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
Want a vacation with a discount voucher? Don't miss out on what's happening in Jerusalem
According to Israel Hayom, there are already more Hasidim in Uman than in a normal year, with yeshiva students already landing in Ukraine and opening the "Elul Time" there, but Hasidic news sites are discussing the question of whether to set out now or wait.
Breslov Hasidim, who are still traumatized from last year, are concerned about the Health Ministry's intention to declare, ahead of Rosh Hashanah, most of the world's countries as 'black', to which flights are prohibited.
According to the 'Bratslav City' website, travel agents reported a sharp drop in the number of flight bookings to Ukraine, probably due to the uncertainty, and therefore called on the public to purchase tickets as soon as possible and reserve a seat on flights. "We need a lot of prayer, so that we may be able to break the deadlock and arrive in Uman on Rosh Hashanah.".
In a conversation with Israel Hayom, a Hasidic source estimated: "Many of the Hasidic people who come to Uman every year will do so this year as well. Isolation is not what will deter them.".
Now all eyes of the Hasidim are on the next decisions of the Corona Cabinet, alongside the national outline formulated by Minister Matan Kahane - which may finally succeed in dispelling the cloud of uncertainty in which the Hasidim find themselves.
Last Wednesday, Minister Kahane spoke with representatives of rabbis and Hasidic activists in Breslov and updated them on the implications of the fact that the state of Ukraine has become orange.
Kahane made it clear to the businessmen that he continues to insist that the policy regarding the Breslov Hasidim remain equal. “There will be no one-size-fits-all,” the minister clarified.
Where can I find accurate information about investments? Come on, ask the CEO
Without conditions and with scholarships: earn an average of 35,700 shekels per month
Where would you like to travel? We have compiled great vacation offers for you only in Israel.
Kahane emphasized that his policy has not changed: “As long as Israeli citizens can fly to vacation destinations in Europe, Breslov Hasidim will be able to fly to the graves of the righteous in Ukraine.”.
As of today, travel to Uman will be possible – but Hasidim returning from Uman will be required to quarantine, like all returnees from other destinations in Europe. Representatives of the Breslov rabbis and business people accepted the comments with understanding and agreement.
