In light of the ongoing security tensions in the region, the annual Tana celebration of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai on Mount Meron, which typically draws hundreds of thousands of participants, will be held this year in a significantly limited format.
As per the plan, which was first reported by Walla, there will be three highly restricted events within the Rashbi Tomb compound, representing three different streams, each featuring the traditional lighting of the fire.
In response to the security directive, many rabbis have called for compliance with the law and proposed alternative ways to celebrate. Rabbi Yoshiyahu Yosef Pinto emphasized that this year, with the cancellation of the mass gathering in Meron, it is essential to engage in studying the teachings of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, reading the Book of Zohar, and simultaneously adhering to the given instructions.
Expressing his sadness over the cancellation of the Meron festivities, Rabbi Pinto urged adherence to the guidelines, stating, “but dina demalkhuta dina” (the law of the land is the law).
Rabbi Pinto further emphasized, “It is crucial to understand that studying the teachings of Rabbi Shimon, the holy Zohar, is of immense virtue, illuminating the path of Rabbi Shimon’s light. This is the time for all of us to strengthen our connection to Rabbi Shimon’s Torah.”
“We are in a very complex period,” he continued, “and those who study the Book of Zohar will find great salvation and deliverance,” Rabbi Pinto concluded.
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