Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach: Can Kohanim Go To the Kever of Rav Shimon Bar Yochai?
The Sefer Tzion L’Nefesh Tzvi deals with the question of a Kohen standing by the Kever of a Tzaddik. In the Kovetz D’Oiraisa, Rav M. Shpielman the Michaber of the Tzion L’Nefesh Tzvi explains at length that not only are Kivrei Tzaddikim assur but it is also assur for Kohanim to stand by the Kever of Rav Shimon Bar Yochai.
In this piece he writes that he went to consult with Rav Shlomo Zalman about the matter and Rav Shlomo Zalman said, “Publicize in my name that is it assur for Kohanim to stand by the Kever of Rav Shimon Bar Yochai just like it is assur to stand by the Kever of any other tzaddik." Furthermore in his Haskama to Tzion L’Nefesh Tzvi, Rav Shlomo Zalman writes that any Kohen who comes to the Kever of a Tzaddik and is careful not to violate any Issur Kehuna, the zechus of those tzaddikim should stand by them and their Tefilos should be fulfilled.
Interestingly when Rav Shlomo Zalman was in Tiveria and they wanted to take him around to all the Kevorim in the area he said, “This is not our way”. He then traveled only to Rav Meir Baal HaNes in Tiveria and Rav Shimon Bar Yochai in Meiron since they have been places for tefila for many generations. He also went once a year during Aseres Yimei Tshuva to Meoras HaMachpela and Kever Rochel. (Halichos Shlomo 1:11:23)
Important Note: We try to convey the Tshuva to the best of our ability. We admit that our understanding may not be accurate. Please also understand that this Tshuva may not be the final word on this topic. One should consult a Rav before drawing any conclusions.
This article has not been reviewed by the posek of the AskRevach section, Rav Peretz Moncharsh. Any questions regarding this topic and Halacha L’Maaseh may be asked to him at www.revach.net/ask
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