From Meron to Hebron? Hasidic Rebbes Consider Moving Lag BaOmer Bonfires to Cave of the Patriarchs

In a first-of-its-kind move, sources close to several prominent Hasidic Rebbes, including senior aides and "Gabbaim," have contacted organizers in Hebron to evaluate the feasibility of holding central Hasidic bonfires at the Cave of the Patriarchs this coming Lag BaOmer.

The initiative follows a dramatic decision by security officials to strictly limit the annual Meron pilgrimage. While hundreds of thousands typically flock to the tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai (Rashbi), this year’s event will be restricted to just a few thousand people in enclosed compounds due to the threat of rocket fire from Lebanon.

Unlike the COVID-19 era, when restrictions were nationwide, currently only the North is under such limitations. This allows for mass gatherings of tens of thousands in other parts of the country, prompting Hasidic leadership to look for alternative holy sites.

The Hebron Surge

The potential shift to Hebron comes as the city already prepares for its largest-ever Lag BaOmer event. Traditionally, a central bonfire is held in the plaza of the Cave of the Patriarchs, led by prominent Religious Zionist heads of yeshivas, including Rabbi Yaakov Shapira (Head of Merkaz HaRav Yeshiva) and Rabbi Nachum Neria (Head of Torah B'Tzion Yeshiva)

High-ranking public figures, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, are also expected to attend. Thousands are already registered to arrive via organized buses from yeshivas across the country.

The Proposed Plan: Midnight Shifts

According to information obtained by Srugim, the plan currently under review is both simple and dramatic: once the Religious Zionist ceremonies conclude around midnight, the plaza, which remains open until the early morning hours, would host a series of additional bonfires for various Hasidic sects.

This transition marks an unprecedented change in the religious landscape of Israel. For centuries, Lag BaOmer has been synonymous with Mount Meron. However, with the North under fire, the focus is shifting from the Galilee to the City of the Patriarchs.

This follows a similar announcement by the influential Rabbi Elimelech Biderman, who recently informed his followers that his massive central bonfire would be held in Jerusalem this year rather than Meron. It now appears that the "Hebron option" may become the new focal point for thousands of Hasidim seeking a safe alternative for the holy day.