Don't be ashamed to admit that you have never ever heard about the chassidic group Dushinsky. You are not alone and most Israelis are not even aware that there is such group.
In the chassidic world, on the other hand, Dushinsky is well known. At least among the members of the anti - Zionist umbrella organization "Edah HaCharedit", such as Satmar, Spinka, Toldot Aharon or Avraham Yitzchak. But it is not unusual that Chassidim of "Agudat Israel" groups such as Vishnitz, Belz or Gur, don't know Dushinsky. Nevertheless, Dushinsky plays a very important role in the Edah and Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Ullmann is a member of the Beit Din Zedek of the Edah.
Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Ullmann is sitting in the middle (white scarf)
The Dushinsky group is relatively new. It is one of the few chassidic groups being named after a family name and not after a Shtetl. Additionally, Dushinsky does not have a direct line to the Baal Shem Tov. Instead, the group was founded approx. 70 years ago by Rabbi Yosef Zvi Dushinsky. The group is extremely anti - Zionist and in 1948, founder Rebbe Yosef Zvi tried to convince the UN not to agree to the foundation of a State of Israel.
See more on anti - Zionism here:
http://shearim.blogspot.com/2007/12/talmudic-reason-for-anti-zionism.html
http://www.jewsagainstzionism.com/rabbi_quotes/dushinsky.cfm
Anti - Zionist or not, there is a demand for the chassidic Dushinsky Tish. Especially from other Chassidim of the Edah. However, you can also find the national religious and litvishe visiting the Tish. Maybe a little less but probably due to the reason that Dushinsky is not too known.
During the winter months, the Tish starts at about 10pm, during the summer months at 11pm (on Erev Shabbat).
The Tish is smaller than in other chassidic groups and there is a more familiar atmosphere. Nevertheless, at least 200 Chassidim participate. Maybe even more.
Rebbe Yosef Zvi Dushinsky (not the one who went to the UN) does not eat a whole meal but usually gives a Derasha or sings together with his Chassidim.
Sometimes a well - known Edah Rabbi participates and also gives a Derasha.
The Dushinsky buildling complex looks a little neglected. The new synagogue right next to the old building looks just the opposite. Brandnew and very nice. The old complex might look neglected, however, it is kept clean.
The Tish lasts for about two hours. At the end, the Rebbe dances around the Tish together with some Chassidim. He usually does so three times. Afterwards the Rebbe says "Gut Shabbes" to every male participant. A custom I like very much because it is very personal and shows care.
Men and women have separate entrances. The entrance to the Ezrat Nashim is anything but easy to find. Of course, there are signs and arrows but sometimes you get lost with all the directions. Don't ask the male Chassidim, as they usually don't reply. Wait until someone female or litvish shows up. This once happened to me and my friend. A litvishe guy asked a Dushinsky Chassid and then explained us the way to the Ezrat Nashim.
However, the women's entrance is at the backside of the old building. Turn to the right, walk until the end of the fence, then turn left, enter the little gate, go straight and then left until the last door. Climb all the stairs until the top.
I found the Dushinsky women rather reserved but this might change in case you come regularly. But as soon as you ask something, you definitely get an answer without any hesitation.
Space behind the Mechitzah is rather limited, so be there early.
The Mechitzah is okay and once you got a place, you are able to see everything.
If you are at the Ezrat Nashim, just turn around and don't only look at the Tish but also at the new synagogue across the Mechitzah. Very worth seeing !!!
I got the impression that Rebbe Yosef Zvi Dushinsky very much cares for his Chassidim on a personal level. He looks like a respected person.
You don't necessarily have to agree to the Dushinsky policy, however, visiting their Tish is highly recommended. No matter if female or male.
Location: Shmuel HaNavi Street in Jerusalem
The present Dushinsky Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Zvi Dushinsky
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