Nathan of Breslov leads the first Rosh Hashana kibbutz at Uman

Background. Rabbi Nachman of Breslov died in 1810 and was buried in the Jewish cemetery in Uman. His disciple, Nathan Sternhartz, known as Reb Noson, became the leader of the Breslover Hasidim. Although Nachman did not appoint a successor, Nathan preserved his teachings and organized the first pilgrimage to his grave in 1811, fulfilling a belief that Nachman promised to aid those who prayed there on Rosh Hashana.

Significance. The pilgrimage, known as the Rosh Hashana kibbutz, drew hundreds of Hasidim from various regions in the 19th century. Nathan continued to lead these gatherings until his death in 1844. The tradition persisted despite political restrictions, including the closure of borders after the 1917 revolution, demonstrating the enduring importance of Nachman's grave to Breslov Hasidim.

Context. The pilgrimage was rooted in the belief that Nachman promised to intercede for those who visited his grave on Rosh Hashana. This spiritual promise motivated the gathering, which became a focal point for Breslov Hasidim. Nathan's role as scribe and leader ensured the preservation of Nachman's teachings, which underpinned the pilgrimage's religious significance.