B"H
If you still haven't heard about the Kretchnifer Chassidim, it is high time visiting their Rebbe's Tish. Although Kretchnif has different Rebbes (in Jerusalem, Rehovot, Haifa or New York), I am only concentrating on the Jerusalemer Tish of Rebbe Nissan Chaim Rosenbaum.
To me Kretchnif was the same as the Slonim; a friend of mine recommended them. After different people described me the way how to get there, I didn't face any problems finding the place. Actually it is very easy to find the Kretchnifer Synagogue. Right across Karlin – Stolin and the Satmarer Beit Midrash. And as usual, my friend and I started looking for the women's entrance to the Ezrat Nashim. But we were lucky at the first time. Two other girls had just walked out and showed us the way.
Last summer, the Kretchnifer Tish seemed to be a temporarily solution for us. Our favourite Rebbes of Toldot Aharon and Avraham Yitzchak were on vacation abroad and we were desperately looking for other Tishes. It was actually a positive opportunity looking for other groups and not always getting stuck at the same Tishes over and over again. But whoever considers Kretchnif as a temporarily solution might be very mistaken. A visitor of their Tish should stay as long as possible and look around, as there is so much to see. Especially the giant cakes later on.
The Kretchnifer Tish starts between 10pm – 10.30pm. The Rebbe finishes at about 2.15 in the morning.
Tish Video
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7495712384584720227&q=kretshnif+tish&total=3&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0
Purim at Kretchnif
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8247918920442353615
Rebbe Nissan Chaim Rosenbaum at the Mitzwe Tanz with his daughter who got married.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8053135343788864700
The one's of you looking for a small cozy chassidic Tish, should definitely go to Kretchnif. It is extremely easy getting in touch with the other 40 – 50 Chassidim and Rebbe Nissan Chaim Rosenbaum refers to everybody. No wonder that many Chassidim from other groups like to come to his Tish: Toldot Aharon, Avraham Yitzchak, Satmar, Karlin, Gur, etc. Everybody is welcomed and gets food (shirayim) from the Rebbe. There is even cold beer which is divided among the Chassidim. Unfortunately only among the men. As usual. However, my friend and I made some secret plans of bringing a bottle of our own. Who can resist during a hot summer night ?
The Rebbe eats a whole meal. He has the habit of sniffing on a small silver box. What is inside ?
My friends says SNUFF and I say BE'SAMIM (HERBS). Which one of us is right ?
The synagogue is rather small and the Ezrat Nashim is even tinier.
The Rebbe loves to sing and swing with his arms. In many ways he somehow reminds me of Rebbe Shmuel Yaakov Kahn of the Toldot Avraham Yitzchak. Rebbe Rosenbaum usually gives at least two Derashot (Torah teachings) but it is very hard to understand him. Not only in the Ezrat Nashim but even his Chassidim move closer as soon as he talks.
In order to get in touch with the Kretchnifer women, you have to be a regular at the Tish. After they see you a few times, they start talking to you. Especially the Rebbitzen. She is a very nice lady who, same as her husband, refers to everyone.
According to our experience, Kretchnif is the only group handing food out to the women. Only some slices from the giant steaming cake but never mind. It smells so good when the cake is coming out and you should see the Chassidim lining up.
However, the best event is the Rebbe's dance. He does it for some minutes only by himself. He is moving backwards and forwards right in front of his chair. Afterwards him and the Chassidim build a circle and dance. You should see the Rebbe running in front of the Chassidim. He is so fast that others have difficulties to follow.
The Kretchnifer Tish is highly recommended and interesting to see. A family atmosphere just like in a bigger living room. Unfortunately, the Mechizah is to low for me and after a while my back starts hurting.
The Mechitzah consists of metal pieces and so far, we were able to see everything. Some weeks ago, the Krechtnifer obviously decided to put some plastic on the metal. This plastic is not too good for the eyes and after some time you are dizzy. Maybe someone could tell the Chassidim to take down the plastic.
Location: Avinoam Street, across Karlin – Stolin.
The entrance to the Ezrat Nashim is to the left of the back of the building. Walk in on the left side, turn right and walk up all the stairs. Don't get too tired in the staircase. Then go out onto the porch left and turn right again.
Showing posts with label Tish - Guide Jerusalem. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tish - Guide Jerusalem. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Chassidic Tish Guide Part 4 - Chassidut Toldot Aharon
B"H
Although the Toldot Aharon Tish is not my personal No. 1, it definitely represents one of the most important experiences I ever had in my life. A few years ago someone told me to go to the Toldot Aharon Tish but I refused. What do I have to do with them ? They appeared to be so different, extreme and weird.
Then I was invited to a wedding where the Toldot Aharon Rebbe, Rabbi David Kahn, was supposed to appear. I knew Chassidim from the Chatam Sofer group and their daughter got married to a national religious guy who had decided to become chassidic and join the Toldot Aharon. However, I simply didn't feel like such a religious wedding and stayed at home.
For years I had been passing the synagogue in Shivtei Israel Street, right next to Mea Shearim Street. I heard the great singing inside and thought about going in. Nevertheless, it never seemed to work out.
Last year I decided to describe chassidic groups on my blogs (in German and English) and, as I mentioned before, I found out that literature is not everything. Go out and speak to Chassidim. This wasn't too hard for me since I had been in society before. I know Chassidim and understand Yiddish (my talking is still a mess).
After I wrote about Gur, Breslov, Chabad and Vishnitz, I chose the Toldot Aharon next. I have no idea why, it just came into my mind. Their Tish is well known and one Erev Shabbat, I went with a friend to the synagogue in Shivtei Israel. Actually already for Maariv. After inquiring about where and when, we were told that the Toldot Aharon women don't go to daven on Erev Shabbat. But, at the same time, we were told to come to the Tish later on, as the Rebbe's daughter celebrated her Sheva Berachot (special celebrations after the wedding). So, we went and somehow got stuck. Until today.
Of course, we went to plenty of other Tishes as well but we always love to come back to Toldot Aharon. It is not only the Rebbe, the Chassidim or the songs; the whole atmosphere is just impossible to describe. I have been going there for almost a year now, and enjoyed talking to so many women and young girls. As a female visitor you cannot really have a conversation with the men.
I think one of the reasons why we love their Tish is the friendliness of the group members. They have something special in their behaviour. Maybe due to the Takanot (internal laws) or simply due to their way of upbringing. Of course, you also meet different characters but all the women seem to have something in common, and I am unable to define it. Maybe it is just a feeling. As soon as I asked questions concerning the group, most women were anxious to answer. I heard great stories there and so far, only have positive experiences. And it is due to the Toldot Aharon women that many of my writings come into existence. Not only them but other group members from different chassidic groups. It is the Chassidim themselves playing the most important role on this site and not me.
During the winter, the Toldot Aharon Tish starts at about 10pm, during the summer they start at 11pm.
The Tish lasts for approximately 3.5 hours.
The Toldot Aharon on Sukkot
The two men's entrances are easy to find.
One entrance to the Ezrat Nashim, however, is right at Shivtei Israel. In order to get to the second one, you have to enter the little alleyway to the right of the synagogue, and turn left at the end. There you will get to some stairs. Climb up and enter through the white metal door.
Rebbe David Kahn keeps his Tish organized, no doubt about that. He has a special timetable and starts and finishes on time. There is a sign in Yiddish that women should start leaving the building at least 15 minutes before the Tish ends. This is due to modesty reasons. If men and women were leaving at the same time they would meet in the street outside and come into contact.
Rebbe David Kahn comes in, makes a blessing (Beracha) over Be'samim (herbs) and starts making Kiddush. The same Be'samim custom we saw at the Shomrei Emunim (the first Toldot Aharon split off).
The Rebbe eats a whole meal.
Of course, the men downstairs have more space than the women upstairs. The Ezrat Nashim consists of two large rooms where you can stand or sit on metal benches. They are placed on top of each other and the whole scene looks like a theatre. If you come early you will find a good spot. Especially during the holidays, the place is totally packed and it happened in the past that we left after a few minutes. No chance to see anything.
The women are usually very friendly and extremely helpful. Yiddish is THE language but also Hebrew. Sometimes you find a group member speaking English but you really have to look for someone. Usually the guests know more English. Especially the many Satmar women visiting the Tish.
The Mechitzah is great in most cases. If you find a bad spot, you might stand behind the very few metal Mechizot. Anyway, the more common Mechitzah are the glass windows where you can see everything.
Be aware that during the summer they do not change their huge clocks to daylight saving. As they do not recognize the State of Israel and its laws, they don't change the time. Thus, you are always an hour behind.
All men have a chance to get food from the Rebbe's Tish. At a certain point, you can also line up and shake the Rebbe's hand. Plenty of fruit and cake will be given out before the end of the Tish.
At the end, the Rebbe and all Chassidim hold each other's hand and start swinging.
The Tish is never boring, as there is always something to see.
Location: Toldot Aharon Synagogue in Shivtei Israel, Jerusalem.
The Tish is highly recommendable.
Usually there are many visitors and it is full. The good thing is that most visitors leave early and if you come after midnight, there might be more space.
As the Toldot Aharon were my first chassidic Tish ever and I got to know many women, I always feel a special connection to the place. Whenever they have a Tish, I go. Even for half an hour or so.
If you go to chassidic Tishes, never ever leave out the Toldot Aharon.
Video: Visit of the Toldot Aharon Rebbe in Queens
Although the Toldot Aharon Tish is not my personal No. 1, it definitely represents one of the most important experiences I ever had in my life. A few years ago someone told me to go to the Toldot Aharon Tish but I refused. What do I have to do with them ? They appeared to be so different, extreme and weird.
Then I was invited to a wedding where the Toldot Aharon Rebbe, Rabbi David Kahn, was supposed to appear. I knew Chassidim from the Chatam Sofer group and their daughter got married to a national religious guy who had decided to become chassidic and join the Toldot Aharon. However, I simply didn't feel like such a religious wedding and stayed at home.
For years I had been passing the synagogue in Shivtei Israel Street, right next to Mea Shearim Street. I heard the great singing inside and thought about going in. Nevertheless, it never seemed to work out.
Last year I decided to describe chassidic groups on my blogs (in German and English) and, as I mentioned before, I found out that literature is not everything. Go out and speak to Chassidim. This wasn't too hard for me since I had been in society before. I know Chassidim and understand Yiddish (my talking is still a mess).
After I wrote about Gur, Breslov, Chabad and Vishnitz, I chose the Toldot Aharon next. I have no idea why, it just came into my mind. Their Tish is well known and one Erev Shabbat, I went with a friend to the synagogue in Shivtei Israel. Actually already for Maariv. After inquiring about where and when, we were told that the Toldot Aharon women don't go to daven on Erev Shabbat. But, at the same time, we were told to come to the Tish later on, as the Rebbe's daughter celebrated her Sheva Berachot (special celebrations after the wedding). So, we went and somehow got stuck. Until today.
Of course, we went to plenty of other Tishes as well but we always love to come back to Toldot Aharon. It is not only the Rebbe, the Chassidim or the songs; the whole atmosphere is just impossible to describe. I have been going there for almost a year now, and enjoyed talking to so many women and young girls. As a female visitor you cannot really have a conversation with the men.
I think one of the reasons why we love their Tish is the friendliness of the group members. They have something special in their behaviour. Maybe due to the Takanot (internal laws) or simply due to their way of upbringing. Of course, you also meet different characters but all the women seem to have something in common, and I am unable to define it. Maybe it is just a feeling. As soon as I asked questions concerning the group, most women were anxious to answer. I heard great stories there and so far, only have positive experiences. And it is due to the Toldot Aharon women that many of my writings come into existence. Not only them but other group members from different chassidic groups. It is the Chassidim themselves playing the most important role on this site and not me.
During the winter, the Toldot Aharon Tish starts at about 10pm, during the summer they start at 11pm.
The Tish lasts for approximately 3.5 hours.
The Toldot Aharon on Sukkot
The two men's entrances are easy to find.
One entrance to the Ezrat Nashim, however, is right at Shivtei Israel. In order to get to the second one, you have to enter the little alleyway to the right of the synagogue, and turn left at the end. There you will get to some stairs. Climb up and enter through the white metal door.
Rebbe David Kahn keeps his Tish organized, no doubt about that. He has a special timetable and starts and finishes on time. There is a sign in Yiddish that women should start leaving the building at least 15 minutes before the Tish ends. This is due to modesty reasons. If men and women were leaving at the same time they would meet in the street outside and come into contact.
Rebbe David Kahn comes in, makes a blessing (Beracha) over Be'samim (herbs) and starts making Kiddush. The same Be'samim custom we saw at the Shomrei Emunim (the first Toldot Aharon split off).
The Rebbe eats a whole meal.
Of course, the men downstairs have more space than the women upstairs. The Ezrat Nashim consists of two large rooms where you can stand or sit on metal benches. They are placed on top of each other and the whole scene looks like a theatre. If you come early you will find a good spot. Especially during the holidays, the place is totally packed and it happened in the past that we left after a few minutes. No chance to see anything.
The women are usually very friendly and extremely helpful. Yiddish is THE language but also Hebrew. Sometimes you find a group member speaking English but you really have to look for someone. Usually the guests know more English. Especially the many Satmar women visiting the Tish.
The Mechitzah is great in most cases. If you find a bad spot, you might stand behind the very few metal Mechizot. Anyway, the more common Mechitzah are the glass windows where you can see everything.
Be aware that during the summer they do not change their huge clocks to daylight saving. As they do not recognize the State of Israel and its laws, they don't change the time. Thus, you are always an hour behind.
All men have a chance to get food from the Rebbe's Tish. At a certain point, you can also line up and shake the Rebbe's hand. Plenty of fruit and cake will be given out before the end of the Tish.
At the end, the Rebbe and all Chassidim hold each other's hand and start swinging.
The Tish is never boring, as there is always something to see.
Location: Toldot Aharon Synagogue in Shivtei Israel, Jerusalem.
The Tish is highly recommendable.
Usually there are many visitors and it is full. The good thing is that most visitors leave early and if you come after midnight, there might be more space.
As the Toldot Aharon were my first chassidic Tish ever and I got to know many women, I always feel a special connection to the place. Whenever they have a Tish, I go. Even for half an hour or so.
If you go to chassidic Tishes, never ever leave out the Toldot Aharon.
Video: Visit of the Toldot Aharon Rebbe in Queens
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Chassidic Tish Guide Part 3 - Chassidut Slonim
B"H
Before anyone is asking:
Here I am only talking about the Slonim in Jerusalem and not yet about the Slonim in Bnei Brak.
When I started going to all the chassidic Tishes almost a year ago, a friend of mine mentioned the Slonim. I should really go and have a look. I admit that I had never heard about the Slonim before and started to get curious. I made some inquiries and a haredi guy told me the way to the Wohl Center.
The Slonim in Mea Shearim are a rather big group and well known for their cleanliness. Everything has to be spotless.
But other Chassidim also talk about the ongoing war between the Slonim in Bnei Brak and their counterpart in Jerusalem. Two different Rebbes and two slightly different philosophies. Apparently the Jerusalemer Slonim are more moderate and thus being called the "white Slonim". In Bnei Brak they are more stringent and thus being called the "black Slonim".
For anyone interested in the Slonim history, here is a great site:
http://zachor.michlalah.edu/english/khila/khila-5.asp
The Slonim have a direct lineage to the Baal Shem Tov. Even through Rabbi Aharon the Great, the founder of Chassidut Karlin.
Although I haven't dealt so much with the Slonim yet, I do love reading their Torah commentaries. The present Slonimer Rebbe (Jerusalem), Rabbi Shmuel Brozovsky, wrote a great Torah commentary called " Darchei Noam"; a commentary which I use quite frequently for my German weekly Torah portion (Parashat HaShavua).
We all have our preferences in life; there are things we love and other things we like less. Things we can immediately connect to and the complete opposite. This happened with me and the Slonim.
I don't know why but I simply cannot connect to the them. Especially not to their Niggunim (songs) at the Tish. There are very few Niggunim I like. A Chassid (not from the Slonim) told me that there songs are rather heavy. Slow and somehow sad. I don't know how to describe it in a better way. It doesn’t mean that I don't like them; but somehow the Slonim are not my cup of tea.
First I said to myself that I should go more often. Get to know the people and everything. This is very true and unfortunately, I haven't met too many of the Slonim women yet. To none of them I have ever spoken so far. The problem is that their women hardly appear at the Tish. I am sure they are great people but I just cannot connect. Not to the Niggunim but to the Rebbe's teachings.
The Slonim Tish always starts at about 10pm (Erev Shabbat), and lasts for approx. two hours.
Rebbe Shmuel Brozovsky doesn't have a meal but emphasizes on Niggunim.
The present Slonimer Rebbe of Jerusalem: Rebbe Shmuel Brozovsky
As I said there aren't too many Slonim women at the Tish and most female visitors are strangers (particularly young haredi girls). It seems that the national religious and secular Israeli visitors don't know the Slonim Tish or the group at all.
The Slonim complex is rather big and basically consists of two huge buildings: the synagogue and the building where the Tishes take place. The complex is called "Wohl Center".
The men's section is downstairs and very easy to find. The Ezrat Nashim (women's entrance) is not easy to find. Especially not when there are no further women around who can show you the door.
The first time, my friend and I went to the Slonim turned out to be a small catastrophe. By mistake, we walked into the men's entrance and as soon as we were spotted out by three men, they immediately turned around to the wall in order not to look at us.
I hope we weren't that ugly.
Anyway I asked the guys where the Ezrat Nashim is and they gave us directions with their hands without looking at us.
So, don't you ever dare talking to a Slonim guy !!!
The entrance to the Ezrat Nashim is on the left of the men's entrance. From the outside. The door is separate, walk all the stairs to the top.
The Mechitzah consists of wood. If you find a good spot, you are able to overlook everything.
Usually the Tish is packed with a few hundred Chassidim. Sometimes it is hard for men to find a good place, as the Tish is crowded.
It looks like men are being checked when they walk in. There is always a Slonim Chassid near the door and looks at visitors coming in. Once he walked straight up to some litvishe guys and told them to behave. The Slonim might have had some bad experiences in the past. Who knows ?
There is a great Tish custom which I love to see:
Chassidim line up and each of them bows down to the Rebbe. A nice personal way of saying "Gut Shabbes".
The Slonim Tish is perfect for those of you who like it more quiet. Not all the dancing and jumping around. It is definitely not a wild Tish but very crowded.
Location: Right behind the Mea Shearim market, behind the Mosdot Toldot Avraham Yitzchak. The Slonim synagogue looks new and has coloured windows.
Before anyone is asking:
Here I am only talking about the Slonim in Jerusalem and not yet about the Slonim in Bnei Brak.
When I started going to all the chassidic Tishes almost a year ago, a friend of mine mentioned the Slonim. I should really go and have a look. I admit that I had never heard about the Slonim before and started to get curious. I made some inquiries and a haredi guy told me the way to the Wohl Center.
The Slonim in Mea Shearim are a rather big group and well known for their cleanliness. Everything has to be spotless.
But other Chassidim also talk about the ongoing war between the Slonim in Bnei Brak and their counterpart in Jerusalem. Two different Rebbes and two slightly different philosophies. Apparently the Jerusalemer Slonim are more moderate and thus being called the "white Slonim". In Bnei Brak they are more stringent and thus being called the "black Slonim".
For anyone interested in the Slonim history, here is a great site:
http://zachor.michlalah.edu/english/khila/khila-5.asp
The Slonim have a direct lineage to the Baal Shem Tov. Even through Rabbi Aharon the Great, the founder of Chassidut Karlin.
Although I haven't dealt so much with the Slonim yet, I do love reading their Torah commentaries. The present Slonimer Rebbe (Jerusalem), Rabbi Shmuel Brozovsky, wrote a great Torah commentary called " Darchei Noam"; a commentary which I use quite frequently for my German weekly Torah portion (Parashat HaShavua).
We all have our preferences in life; there are things we love and other things we like less. Things we can immediately connect to and the complete opposite. This happened with me and the Slonim.
I don't know why but I simply cannot connect to the them. Especially not to their Niggunim (songs) at the Tish. There are very few Niggunim I like. A Chassid (not from the Slonim) told me that there songs are rather heavy. Slow and somehow sad. I don't know how to describe it in a better way. It doesn’t mean that I don't like them; but somehow the Slonim are not my cup of tea.
First I said to myself that I should go more often. Get to know the people and everything. This is very true and unfortunately, I haven't met too many of the Slonim women yet. To none of them I have ever spoken so far. The problem is that their women hardly appear at the Tish. I am sure they are great people but I just cannot connect. Not to the Niggunim but to the Rebbe's teachings.
The Slonim Tish always starts at about 10pm (Erev Shabbat), and lasts for approx. two hours.
Rebbe Shmuel Brozovsky doesn't have a meal but emphasizes on Niggunim.
The present Slonimer Rebbe of Jerusalem: Rebbe Shmuel Brozovsky
As I said there aren't too many Slonim women at the Tish and most female visitors are strangers (particularly young haredi girls). It seems that the national religious and secular Israeli visitors don't know the Slonim Tish or the group at all.
The Slonim complex is rather big and basically consists of two huge buildings: the synagogue and the building where the Tishes take place. The complex is called "Wohl Center".
The men's section is downstairs and very easy to find. The Ezrat Nashim (women's entrance) is not easy to find. Especially not when there are no further women around who can show you the door.
The first time, my friend and I went to the Slonim turned out to be a small catastrophe. By mistake, we walked into the men's entrance and as soon as we were spotted out by three men, they immediately turned around to the wall in order not to look at us.
I hope we weren't that ugly.
Anyway I asked the guys where the Ezrat Nashim is and they gave us directions with their hands without looking at us.
So, don't you ever dare talking to a Slonim guy !!!
The entrance to the Ezrat Nashim is on the left of the men's entrance. From the outside. The door is separate, walk all the stairs to the top.
The Mechitzah consists of wood. If you find a good spot, you are able to overlook everything.
Usually the Tish is packed with a few hundred Chassidim. Sometimes it is hard for men to find a good place, as the Tish is crowded.
It looks like men are being checked when they walk in. There is always a Slonim Chassid near the door and looks at visitors coming in. Once he walked straight up to some litvishe guys and told them to behave. The Slonim might have had some bad experiences in the past. Who knows ?
There is a great Tish custom which I love to see:
Chassidim line up and each of them bows down to the Rebbe. A nice personal way of saying "Gut Shabbes".
The Slonim Tish is perfect for those of you who like it more quiet. Not all the dancing and jumping around. It is definitely not a wild Tish but very crowded.
Location: Right behind the Mea Shearim market, behind the Mosdot Toldot Avraham Yitzchak. The Slonim synagogue looks new and has coloured windows.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Chassidic Tish Guide Part 2 - Chassidut Dushinsky
B"H
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
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
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Chassidic Tish Guide Part 1 - BELZ
B"H
After all I have experienced so far, I would like to share some of the information with other Jews. It goes without saying that this guide only provides a limited view into the chassidic Tish world in Jerusalem. And as I am female, not all Tishes are available to me anyway. But what can I do ?
Many readers sent me e - mails inquiring about Tishes in Jerusalem. Religious Jewish tourists love to go to the Belz Tish. The Belzer are the absolute No. 1 among visitors from abroad. Not at all due to my writings, as Belz is famous anyway. Nevertheless, people ask me how to get to the Belzer Beit Midrash.
Religious Jewish travelers who are planning to join a synagogue service, mostly ask for one particular chassidic group:
For Karlin - Stolin.
The Karliner are famous for their ecstatic prayers and Jews from all over the world are anxious to see this. Personally, I can highly recommend the Karlin - Stolin Synagogue in Mea Shearim.
A couple of German Gentiles asked me if there is a chance for them going to a chassidic Tish. I tried to explain them that one thing should be very clear:
The participants of a chassidic Tish should be Jewish only. The same applies for the synagogue visitors in Mea Shearim. Chassidim take this very seriously and if a Gentile dares to go and is caught, he will find himself being thrown out immediately.
So far, all Tishes have been great. However, it also depends very much on what you are looking for. For lots of dancing and singing or maybe something slower and serious; for a huge Tish or a family atmosphere.
I am going to introduce some of the Tishes and the first one will be Chassidut Belz.
_____________
The Belzer Tish
During the winter months, the Belzer start at 9pm, during the summer months at 11pm (on Erev Shabbat).
Several hundred Chassidim participate.
Rebbe Yissachar Dov Rokeach eats and his Chassidim sing.
The atmosphere is great but take into consideration that the place is extremely crowded. And behave well, as the Belzer are very organized and don't like to have everything upside down !!!
The Tish only lasts for approx. two hours.
Separate entrances for male and female.
The Mechitzah is not bad and women are able to see everything.
The place is extremely clean.
The Chassidim are friendly and open.
You will hardly find a place with greater Niggunim.
The whole Tish is very organized and everything is in its place. Or in other words, nothing goes wrong.
Food is mostly only handed to those whose names are read out loud. Someone told me that these are the Chassidim who during the week came to see the Rebbe and asked for a Beracha (blessing). Anyway, the fruit at the end, anyone male can grab.
In Chassidut Belz, Rebbe Rokeach is treated like a king by his Chassidim. However, the Belzer have a huge group and it is anything but easy to get to the Rebbe.
I can highly recommend the Belzer Tish and it is definitely an experience.
Location: Kiryat Belz near Kiryat Mattersdorf in Jerusalem
The Belz Synagogue in Jerusalem
Tish in Belz
After all I have experienced so far, I would like to share some of the information with other Jews. It goes without saying that this guide only provides a limited view into the chassidic Tish world in Jerusalem. And as I am female, not all Tishes are available to me anyway. But what can I do ?
Many readers sent me e - mails inquiring about Tishes in Jerusalem. Religious Jewish tourists love to go to the Belz Tish. The Belzer are the absolute No. 1 among visitors from abroad. Not at all due to my writings, as Belz is famous anyway. Nevertheless, people ask me how to get to the Belzer Beit Midrash.
Religious Jewish travelers who are planning to join a synagogue service, mostly ask for one particular chassidic group:
For Karlin - Stolin.
The Karliner are famous for their ecstatic prayers and Jews from all over the world are anxious to see this. Personally, I can highly recommend the Karlin - Stolin Synagogue in Mea Shearim.
A couple of German Gentiles asked me if there is a chance for them going to a chassidic Tish. I tried to explain them that one thing should be very clear:
The participants of a chassidic Tish should be Jewish only. The same applies for the synagogue visitors in Mea Shearim. Chassidim take this very seriously and if a Gentile dares to go and is caught, he will find himself being thrown out immediately.
So far, all Tishes have been great. However, it also depends very much on what you are looking for. For lots of dancing and singing or maybe something slower and serious; for a huge Tish or a family atmosphere.
I am going to introduce some of the Tishes and the first one will be Chassidut Belz.
_____________
The Belzer Tish
During the winter months, the Belzer start at 9pm, during the summer months at 11pm (on Erev Shabbat).
Several hundred Chassidim participate.
Rebbe Yissachar Dov Rokeach eats and his Chassidim sing.
The atmosphere is great but take into consideration that the place is extremely crowded. And behave well, as the Belzer are very organized and don't like to have everything upside down !!!
The Tish only lasts for approx. two hours.
Separate entrances for male and female.
The Mechitzah is not bad and women are able to see everything.
The place is extremely clean.
The Chassidim are friendly and open.
You will hardly find a place with greater Niggunim.
The whole Tish is very organized and everything is in its place. Or in other words, nothing goes wrong.
Food is mostly only handed to those whose names are read out loud. Someone told me that these are the Chassidim who during the week came to see the Rebbe and asked for a Beracha (blessing). Anyway, the fruit at the end, anyone male can grab.
In Chassidut Belz, Rebbe Rokeach is treated like a king by his Chassidim. However, the Belzer have a huge group and it is anything but easy to get to the Rebbe.
I can highly recommend the Belzer Tish and it is definitely an experience.
Location: Kiryat Belz near Kiryat Mattersdorf in Jerusalem
The Belz Synagogue in Jerusalem
Tish in Belz
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