Haredi Jews Pilgrimage to Rav Ashi’s Grave Amidst Geopolitical Tensions

Approximately 800 Haredi Jews prayed at Rav Ashi’s grave along the Israeli-Lebanese border under IDF protection. This significant pilgrimage coincided with a notable date in the Hebrew calendar, yet was criticized by UN officials as a violation of security resolutions. Tensions surrounding religious access to this site continue, as past attempts resulted in confrontations and detentions by Israeli authorities.

On the night of March 7, 2025, approximately 800 Haredi Jews gathered to pray at the grave of Rav Ashi, located on the contentious Blue Line border separating Israeli and Lebanese territories. The event, which took place under the auspices and protection of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), marked a significant pilgrimage permitted by Israeli authorities.

Rav Ashi (352–427 C.E.), a prominent Babylonian sage known for his compilation of the Gemara, is believed to be interred at the IDF’s Tziporen outpost. This burial site has been a contentious point, with Lebanon asserting that it falls within their territory, despite the IDF’s claim.

The gathering coincided with the 7th of Adar, the date commemorating both the birth and death of Moses, prompting many to visit the graves of righteous Jews (tzadikim). In recent weeks, smaller groups had attempted similar visits without prior coordination, leading to confrontations with Israeli forces and resulting in some arrests for crossing into Lebanon illegally.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) condemned the large pilgrimage as a violation of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, urging all parties to refrain from actions that may destabilize the region. UNIFIL remains committed to overseeing the withdrawal of Iranian-affiliated groups from southern Lebanon and supports the Lebanese Army’s presence in the area.

Earlier in February, Israeli police detained over 20 ultra-Orthodox Jews for trying to access the site unlawfully, highlighting the ongoing tension surrounding religious visits to the tomb. Commander Arik Berkowitz emphasized that misinformation concerning the site’s accessibility had led to these breaches of border security.

The grave of Rav Ashi has a tragic history, as highlighted by the death of scholar Ze’ev Erlich in a clash with Hezbollah. His recognition by the military as a fallen IDF soldier illustrates the increasingly hazardous environment surrounding the pilgrimage sites in this contested region.

In conclusion, the recent gathering of 800 Haredi Jews at Rav Ashi’s grave reflects both a strong religious commitment and ongoing tensions in a disputed border area. While the event received Israeli military protection, it has drawn criticism from UN officials and highlights the complexities of religious expression amidst geopolitical disputes. As such pilgrimages continue, the potential for conflict remains a pressing concern for both Israeli and Lebanese authorities.

Original Source: www.jewishpress.com