Meron Hilula Plan Scales Back Crowds: 1,500 per Zone, Two-Hour Entry Windows

The Ministry for Jerusalem and Jewish Tradition released an updated plan Wednesday for holding the hilula of the Rashbi in Meron. The outline was prepared in line with Home Front Command guidelines and has received preliminary approval. It now awaits final authorization from Israel Police regarding public order and traffic arrangements.

Under the plan, the event will be held in a scaled-down format, with several separate gathering zones across Meron, including the Rashbi gravesite, the Bnei Akiva area, the Meron moshav, and the expanded hilula complex (89). Each zone will allow up to 1,500 participants, with spacing between areas and designated public sections to reduce crowding.

Entry to the mountain will be managed in timed slots of up to two hours per participant, aimed at dispersing attendance throughout the day. Prayer areas, dancing, bonfire lightings, and hospitality will operate around the clock, but on a reduced scale to maintain safety and order.

Transportation will be limited to public transit, with ticket sales on a first-come, first-served basis through the Transportation Ministry from 11 pickup points nationwide. Further details are expected to be released soon. The ministry emphasized that the total number of participants will ultimately be determined by security needs and safety requirements.

Communications Minister Dr. Shlomo Karhi, who is overseeing the event, said: “We worked to create a plan that preserves tradition while ensuring Meron can remain open to the public, within security limits. I call on those who will not receive tickets to celebrate the hilula in their communities with joy and safety.”

Israel Police Northern District Commander Commissioner Meir Eliyahu said: “We are preparing for the hilula with respect for its significance, but this year the sanctity of life comes first. We will act to maintain public order, regulate traffic, and prevent unauthorized access, so the event can proceed safely.”

He added: “I urge the public not to be influenced by incitement and to act responsibly. The police will enable the hilula to take place with proper respect, but will not allow behavior that endangers the public or security forces.”