Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, more than 65,000 people from around the world traveled to Uman for Rosh Hashanah 5787, gathering near the tziyon of Rav Nachman of Breslov for the annual Rosh Hashanah kibbutz.

The massive turnout came despite the significant travel challenges and security concerns surrounding travel to Ukraine during the continuing war.

Rav Nosson Ben Nun, chairman of Ichud Breslov in Uman, said organizers were extremely pleased with this year’s gathering.

“We conclude the Rosh Hashanah 5787 gathering with great satisfaction. This year, more than 65,000 people arrived in Uman from around the world to unite together near the tziyon of Rabbeinu Hakadosh. B’chasdei Shomayim, no unusual incidents were recorded. We wish all the tens of thousands an easy and pleasant journey back to their homes.”

Meanwhile, United Hatzalah volunteers in Uman operated around the clock throughout the massive gathering, treating 1,744 people since the start of the Rosh Hashanah operation.

Of those, 454 people required medical treatment during the two days of Rosh Hashanah itself. More than 1,000 people were transported by United Hatzalah ambulances to the Uman medical clinic, with some patients requiring further treatment at hospitals in Odesa and Kyiv.

Aharon Ben Harush, head of the United Hatzalah delegation and deputy head of its Uman branch, said volunteers responded to a wide range of emergencies, including loss of consciousness, burns, injuries, fainting, minor traffic accidents, respiratory problems and other medical conditions.

Most patients were transported to the Uman clinic located in the courtyard of the kloiz, while more serious cases were transferred to hospitals elsewhere in Ukraine.

The otherwise successful Rosh Hashanah gathering was marred by tragedy when Breslover Chassidim who entered a forest near Uman for hisbodedus discovered a Jewish man who was unresponsive.

United Hatzalah said the man, a resident of England, was found lifeless in the forest. Ukrainian police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, while askanim in Uman are working with local authorities to secure the release of the niftar for kevurah as quickly as possible.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)