The memorial service for Anton Samborskyi, the adopted son of Ukraine’s Chief Rabbi Moshe Azman, was held in Kyiv on September 12. Samborskyi, aged 32, had been missing since late July and his death was confirmed weeks later. Rabbi Azman, who adopted Samborskyi when he was 10, expressed his sorrow at the service, remembering their last conversation and noting that Samborskyi had recently become a father before being drafted into the army. The service, held at the Central Synagogue of Kyiv, was attended by servicemen, veterans, and others. Samborskyi was buried in the city’s Jewish cemetery following the service. Rabbi Azman expressed his gratitude for the support he received and announced a fundraising campaign in memory of his son, to support those affected by the war, including refugees, the elderly, widows, and orphans.
In a warning issued on September 10, Cherkasy Oblast Governor Ihor Taburets advised Jewish pilgrims to refrain from visiting Uman for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. This caution was likely in response to the ongoing conflict in the region and concerns about safety and security. Uman is a popular destination for Jewish pilgrims during religious holidays, particularly Rosh Hashanah. The warning may have been aimed at ensuring the safety of pilgrims and preventing any potential risks or incidents during the holiday period. It is important for authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals, especially during times of heightened tension or conflict.
The decision to warn against travel to Uman for Rosh Hashanah may have been a difficult one, considering the significance of the pilgrimage for many Jewish individuals. Rosh Hashanah is a time for reflection, prayer, and spiritual renewal, and visiting sacred sites like Uman can hold deep religious and cultural importance. However, in light of security concerns and potential risks, it is crucial for authorities to prioritize the safety and protection of all individuals, including pilgrims. The warning serves as a reminder of the complex challenges and considerations faced in ensuring the well-being of communities during times of uncertainty and conflict.
The memorial service for Anton Samborskyi highlighted the personal impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as his tragic death deeply affected his adoptive father, Rabbi Moshe Azman, and the wider community. Samborskyi’s story is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the sacrifices made by individuals and their families during times of conflict. Rabbi Azman’s expression of gratitude and the fundraising campaign in memory of his son reflect a desire to honor Samborskyi’s legacy and support those in need, including refugees, the elderly, widows, and orphans affected by the conflict. The service and subsequent burial ceremony were a moment of mourning and remembrance for Samborskyi, as well as a call to action to support those impacted by the ongoing crisis.
As tensions continue in the region, the warning against travel to Uman for Rosh Hashanah underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and security during religious observances and gatherings. While the decision may have disappointed some pilgrims hoping to make the journey, it reflects a precautionary approach to ensure the well-being of all individuals involved. Authorities must navigate the delicate balance between religious freedoms and security concerns to safeguard the welfare of communities and prevent potential risks. As conflicts persist in various parts of the world, such warnings serve as an essential precautionary measure to protect individuals and maintain peace and stability during challenging times.
