Your friends flew to Uman and you're confused? The story behind the custom

A background article on the phenomenon of traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah. The custom, originating from Rabbi Nachman of Breslov over 200 years ago, has become a widespread phenomenon attracting tens of thousands of Israelis from all sectors. The article covers the history, spiritual significance, and demographic data of the travelers.

A background article on the mass phenomenon of traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah. The custom, originating from the founder of the Breslov Hasidic movement, Rabbi Nachman, over 200 years ago, has evolved from a limited Hasidic practice into a broad phenomenon attracting tens of thousands of Israelis each year. The article covers the historical background: Rabbi Nachman attributed special importance to Rosh Hashanah for spiritual rectification, and after his death, his disciple Rabbi Nathan established the custom of gathering at his grave. According to estimates, about 50,000 people come to Uman every Rosh Hashanah. New data from the Israel Democracy Institute shows that 42% of Israeli visitors are traditional, 26% are Haredi, 21% are secular, and 11% are religious-nationalist—meaning the phenomenon crosses sectors. Travelers come for prayers, reciting the Tikkun HaKlali, immersion in a mikveh, and hitbodedut (personal meditation). The article ends with a rhetorical question asking whether readers will join next year.