Tens of thousands of people went to Meron Monday night for
the lighting of the traditional bonfire by the Boyaner Rebbe,
while others celebrated by lighting bonfires throughout the
country on the 33rd day of the Omer, Lag B'omer.
Tens of thousands more continued to flow to and from the
tziyun of Rabi Shimon Bar Yochai throughout the day
and night from all over Israel. Some came to learn
Zohar, some came to cut their children's hair, and
some came to imbibe the atmosphere.
3,000 policemen and volunteers secured the festivities on
Mount Meron. ZAKA rescue and recovery teams were also present
and participating in the security.
In response to the demand from the large number of visits by
Jerusalemites to the grave of Shimon Hatzaddik --
particularly on Lag B'omer -- a mehadrin road and
walkway has been laid, providing separate access all the way
to the opening of the cave.
The area is under full military guard and cold drinks were
handed out to the public. The site has been renovated and
improved for the sake of the praying public with the help of
magnanimous donors including Rav Moshe Deutsch, who runs a
kollel held every morning before tefillas vosikin,
and Rav Chaim Hertzig.
On Lag B'omer a chalakeh ceremony accompanied by a
live band was held every hour.
