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World Jewish News
Hassidim Unwilling to Give Uman' Shrine Away to Ukraine
18.05.2009
Bratslav Hassidim oppose the intention of the caretaker of Rabbi Nachman's grave in Uman to pass this shrine over to the control of Ukrainian authorities. They warn: "The goys can not be trusted."
As reported by the Israeli edition "Be-Khadrei Haredim," targeted at an ultra-orthodox audience, the caretaker of the grave of the founder of Bratslav Hasidism, the Israeli Daniel Dayan decided to submit it under the control of
local authorities due to lack of funds. The maintenance of Rabbi Nachman's grave and the reception of thousands of pilgrims during the year, costs hundreds thousands of dollars.
Dayan was appointed responsible for the grave maintenance and the reception of pilgrims by the decision of the leaders of Bratslav Hasidism in August last year. He has been truing to attract the sponsors in every way possible, but because of the financial crisis, his efforts have failed. As a result, on its own initiative, Dayan suggested to the authorities to take the grave into the state ownership, as well as the adjacent synagogue and the hotel. Instead, he asked them to gradually reconstruct the infrastructure of the complex.
According to the "Be-Khadrei Haredim," many Hassidim are outraged at the idea of giving the shrine away to the "goys, who can not be trusted." In addition, the
transfer of control to the Ukrainian authorities would entail the dismissal of dozens of Jews employed in the service of pilgrims.
"Be-Khadrei Haredim" said that very soon a protest campaign will begin against the transfer of this shrine to the Ukrainians.
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