SHOULD I GO TO UMAN FOR ROSH HASHANAH THIS YEAR?

BH

Many people are concerned about travelling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah this year due to the war/conflict situation between the Ukraine and Russia.

Before clarifying this point, it must be made clear that this clarification is meant for people who already believe and follow the teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov, and who understand the importance of being by his grave site for the Rosh Hashanah festival.

For those who are not familiar with this concept, and would like to gain a clear presentation of this gathering, it is suggested to read the following information which does clarify this concept:

1- CROSSING THE NARROW BRIDGE - the chapter entitled: Rosh HaShanah

2- THROUGH FIRE AND WATER - which from a historical perspective explains the significance and importance of this gathering in the Breslov movement.

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Firstly, it must be made clear that the war-zone (if any) is located approx. 1000 km east of both the Kiev and Uman areas. Also, the main job and attraction of the media is to induce people with phobias which are mainly highly exaggerated. So this means that at this moment it is safe travelling to Kiev and Uman. In fact there are groups presently going in and out of the Ukraine on trips to visiting graves of Tzaddikim there etc.

Secondly, unless there is a 100% clear danger of going, committed Breslover chassidim (or anyone else who takes serious consideration in Rebbe Nachman's call to be by him for Rosh Hashanah) continue making the pilgrimage to Uman for Rosh Hashanah.

Quoting Reb Noson: "Even if the road to Uman were paved with knives, I would crawl there just to be by Rebbe Nachman for Rosh HaShanah".

So, presently there is no "clear" danger of going, yet sacrifice is always required to making this trip (which comes in different forms every year).

Personally, I remember when 9/11 took place about a week before Rosh Hashanah, and people did not know what to do. The majority of people made up their minds to make their maximum effort in doing whatever possible in getting there, AND WE MADE IT THERE AND BACK!!!

To help boost the yearning and desire to actually get to Uman for Rosh Hashanah this year, consider reciting prayer 76 from Reb Noson's prayers (translated as the 50th GATE VOLUME 4) in the book Likutey Tefilot.

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In summary, if you believe in the importance of going to Uman for Rosh Hashanah, then you should make the maximum effort possible without being hindered by external influences from the media and the like.

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A SPECIAL OFFER AND REQUEST

I am praying and planning to take my 3 sons to Uman this year for Rosh Hashanah. The total cost for this project (including flight, transportation, food, sleeping accommodations etc.) comes to about $3,600 (approx. $900/person). With my income being way below my monthly expenses, I of course cannot afford this special experience.

Here is what I have to offer:

I will bli neder recite the 10 Psalms known as the Tikkun Haklali by Rebbe Nachman's grave on the eve of Rosh Hashanah (at the noon-time world recitation of the Tikkun Haklali) on behalf of any support sent to help me cover this high cost.

For support of $180 or more I will bli neder additionally recite the Tikkun Hakalai on your behalf for 40 consecutive days.

For support of $360 or more I will bli neder additionally add your names to my 40 day davening list.

(As to why I am going out of my way to take my kids to Uman - especially when I cannot afford it - please contact me at: breslovtherapy@gmail.com)

To send support

1. Through paypal at: UMAN ROSH HASHANAH SUPPORT
2. Through a bank money transfer using this IBAN#: IL400521840000000655848

May this upcoming year - the Shemita year - be a year of abundant blessing and peace for all of Am Yisrael, Amen.

Sincerely

Meir Elkabas