Amid warming relations between Israel and Morocco in the wake of the signing of the Abraham Accords two years ago, some 2,000 Jews traveled to Essouira in the North African country last week to celebrate the Yom Hilula – or yahrtzeit — of Rav Chaim Pinto at his kever. It was believed to be the largest gathering in many years.
A Yom Hilula, unlike a regular yahrzeit, is commemorated through joy and celebration.
Rav Pinto was born in the Moroccan city of Agadir in 1749 and lived much of his life in the seaside city of Essaouira, known then and until the 1960s as Mogador.
He was known throughout the country and beyond for his great Torah knowledge and for performing miracles. He passed away in 1845, on the 26th of Elul, and was buried in Essaouira.
Eyal David, the deputy chief of mission of Israel in Morocco, tweeted on Sept. 16, “Yesterday, Essouira Airport received the first flight of the Israeli Company El Al directly from Tel Aviv. Tourists from Israel came specially to attend the annual celebration of Rabbi Chaim Pinto’s Hiloula. I am sure they will enjoy discovering this wonderful, historical city that I personally adore.”
A video livestream of the Yom Hilula celebration was posted online, and the large crowd was seen singing, dancing and celebrating the life of Rav Pinto. Those who visited and participated in the Hilula also had a chance to daven and place kvitlach at the kever.
Much of the program was conducted in French, which is commonly spoken among Jews from Morocco. In the video, people offered their impressions of the event. While most answered in French, one boy speaking in English said, “Everyone’s tefillos should be answered. What an experience I had this year! And I am coming back next year, be’azrat Hashem.” JNS
Waiting for the anti-Umaners’ disapproval and mocking.
This is not punkt Rosh Hashanah and it’s not in the middle of a full-fledged war. SO THERE
There’s a war? Really? You saw it personally or you just heard about on the media? I have a bridge to sell you.
And for the record, I’ve seen many pictures from this “war” in mainstream which was old photos taken from wars in Beirut and elsewhere.