UKRAINIAN COURT BLOCKS SALE OF REB NACHMAN'S GRAVE

Reb Nachman's grave not up for grabs (JTA)

Reb Nachman's grave in Uman is a cultural site and cannot be sold, the Ukrainian government said.

The announcement about the grave of Breslov Chasidism's founder comes after attempts to privatize the site, which thousands of pilgrims visit each year.

Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that in Ukraine, all objects of cultural and religious value cannot be privatized or nationalized, the head of the ministry's press service, Andriy Deschytsia, told reporters in Kiev on Nov. 15.

Deschytsia also announced that the foreign ministry established the post of ambassador on counteraction of racism, xenophobia and discrimination to coordinate ministry activities with other ministers and state departments.

While visiting Israel, Ukrainian President Viktor Yuschenko on Nov. 13 promised followers of Reb Nachman that he would protect the gravesite and sent a clear message that religious sites are out of bounds and non-negotiable.

Representatives of the Rebbe Nachman of Breslov International Charitable Foundation presented the Cup of Blessing to Yuschenko in Jerusalem to honor his contribution to the development of Ukraine’s relations with Israel and his support for those who visit the grave in Uman.