Tag Archives: Yom Kippur

Reflect, Renew, and Begin Again

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September, which coincides with the Hebrew month of Elul, marks the beginning of a period of self-reflection and renewal. This time leads us into the High Holy Days—Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. These holy days invite us into a personal encounter with G-d, who evaluates our actions from the previous year with a merciful understanding of human frailty.

On Rosh Hashana, we recognize that many aspects of life are beyond our control. The one thing we can control, however, is our behaviour. If we have wronged someone, it is not up to G-d to forgive us; we must seek reconciliation before standing before Him on these holy days. The month of Elul is dedicated to introspection and repairing our behaviour, preparing us for G-d’s judgment, as reflected in the Unetanneh Tokef prayer:

“Who will live, and who will die? Who will be humbled, and who will be lifted up?”

This period of introspection is a journey we can all embark on. It’s a time to reflect on the past year, acknowledge our choices, and ask for the strength to make better decisions in the coming year. Each year allows us to contemplate our actions and commit ourselves to new paths.

The Story of Jonah

On Yom Kippur, we hear the story of the prophet Jonah. Initially, Jonah tried to avoid his divine mission of preaching repentance to the people of Nineveh by running away. A whale swallowed him but spat him out, and G-d gave him a second chance. Jonah ultimately fulfilled his mission, saving the people of Nineveh and reminding us of the potential for entire communities to turn away from their misdeeds and embrace a path of righteousness.

Like Jonah, we often find that moving forward requires confronting what we’ve been avoiding. In these moments, we can discover hope for a better future—for ourselves and the world around us.

What if, like Jonah, we took a moment to assess our actions, confront our fears, and realign our lives? Mistakes are a part of being human—I’ve certainly made my share—but how we react to them shapes our future. Our choices today impact not only ourselves but also our families and communities for generations. What steps can we take now to create that positive ripple effect?

The Value of Tradition

Jewish traditions teach profound lessons with universal meaning. They are open to anyone interested in studying them, and I am deeply grateful to have been born into this tradition. However, I must admit that it has taken me a lifetime to fully appreciate its value. The journey of reflection, renewal, and growth is ongoing, and these sacred days provide us with the space to pause and begin again.

An Invitation to Reflect

As we move through this season, I invite you to join in the process of reflection. Whether these days hold religious significance for you or not, take this opportunity to evaluate your past year, acknowledge your mistakes, and contemplate the changes you can make as you move forward.

How will you choose to start anew?

The Heart of Elul: Lessons in Justice and Compassion

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As the Hebrew month of Elul unfolds, a familiar sense of anticipation fills the air, signalling a sacred time for introspection and preparation for the High Holy Days—Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. We recite a powerful line from our prayer book every year: “B’rosh Hashanah yikatevu uv’yom tzom Kippur yehatemun.” This means, “On Rosh Hashanah, it is written down in the Big Book, and on Yom Kippur, it is sealed by G-d.” I’ve known this rhythm all my life, but it wasn’t until this year that I began to grasp its profound significance.

This process took on new meaning for me after listening to Rabbi YY Jacobson’s lecture, “The Courage to Birth Yourself: The True Meaning of Judgment Day.” Rabbi Jacobson’s insights reveal a loving G-d who allows us to fulfill our potential—a concept I had only superficially understood until now. He explained, “When a loving G-d, who knows you completely and has the best possible vision for your life, gives you the chance to do the work required to fulfill your potential, this is a great gift!”¹ His understanding of the judgment process, grounded in G-d’s compassion for humanity, offered a perspective that felt both meaningful and insightful.

The day before, I attended a Yishai Rebo concert in Jerusalem, where his song “My Heart” (Halev Sheli) echoed the sentiments of Rabbi Jacobson’s teachings. The lyrics spoke of deep understanding and healing, echoing our struggles: “Only You (G-d) are able to understand how to reach my heart, the darkness of my pain, and only You can heal my heart.” This connection between the heart and the divine felt natural as if the universe was nudging me to pay attention.

As I committed to attending weekly Sabbath services this year, I began to see how the month of Elul prepares us for the transformative experience of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. It’s a journey that starts each summer after Tisha B’Av and continues until the last day of Sukkot, known as Simchat Torah. During this time, Jews gather to read the Book of Deuteronomy—Sefer Devarim—during the weekly Sabbath prayer service. This book, often called “Mishne Torah,” meaning “A Review of the Torah,” holds Moses’ heartfelt farewell to the people, imparting lessons that resonate just as strongly today.

Moses recounts the incredible journey of the People of Israel: their miraculous escape from slavery in Egypt, the reception of the Torah at Mount Sinai, and their forty years of wandering in the desert before entering the Land of Canaan, the territory we now know as the State of Israel. However, numerous laws and commandments are interwoven within this grand narrative, including seemingly mundane regulations, like the instruction to send away a mother bird before taking her eggs. I often wondered why these laws exist here.

Immanuel Shalev of Aleph Beta sheds light on this in an animated video, Is There Spiritual Guidance Within Our Legal System? The Hidden Meaning Behind the List of Laws in Deuteronomy. He explains that each law derives from one of the Ten Commandments in the Book of Exodus, reflecting the core values of our Jewish identity. For example, the requirement for two witnesses to convict someone of a crime reinforces the ninth commandment: “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” The Torah calls for a just legal system—“Justice, justice, shall you pursue.”²

Beyond mere rules, these commandments articulate moral values that demand empathy and sensitivity toward others, even in the smallest actions. The law regarding the mother bird reminds us to honour motherhood, as stated in the fifth commandment: “Honor your mother and your father.” Shalev wisely notes, “Any people that lose the capacity for empathy will deteriorate into a cursed existence.”

Though Moses never stepped foot in the Land of Israel, he provided us with these essential laws to guide our lives once we settled there. His teachings encompassed sustainable agriculture, care for the vulnerable, the widow, the orphan, the poor, and even laws of warfare, equipping the Jewish people with a moral compass through centuries of exile. This legacy allowed Jewish communities worldwide to thrive during centuries of exile from their promised land.

The dream of returning to Zion, the land of the Jews, is deeply embedded in our prophetic texts and was transformed into reality with the establishment of the State of Israel within our lifetime. This milestone, occurring just three short years after the horrors of World War II, allowed millions of Jews to return to their ancient homeland. From fewer than a million inhabitants in 1948, Israel has blossomed into a vibrant democracy with nearly ten million people today, known for its innovation and resilience.

The Jewish state has always sought peaceful coexistence rather than expansionism or expulsion. Today, approximately 20% of Israelis are non-Jews—Christians and Muslims who lived here long before the state was established and continue to live here as full-fledged citizens. If all the countries of the Middle East were to embrace this vision, the region could be transformed into a paradise of harmony. It is within our reach if certain nations abandon their culture of destruction and embrace the vision of “making love, not war.”

In every communal prayer service, Jews invoke peace for the world with the heartfelt plea: “May He who makes peace in the Heavens bring peace on Earth, and let us say Amen.” This prayer encapsulates our collective longing for a world where justice and peace prevail. When all nations recognize the importance of these values, we may finally glimpse the vision of harmonious coexistence—where “the lion will lie down with the lamb” (Isaiah 35:9).

“May it come speedily and in our time.” Amen.

Footnote:

  1. Rosh Hashanah Women’s Class: If Rosh Hashanah or YK Trigger You, Listen to This.” The Yeshiva, 1 Sept. 2011, https://www.theyeshiva.net/jewish/item/9447/rosh-hashanah-womens-class-if-rosh-hashanah-or-yk-trigger-you-listen-to-this.
  2. Shalev, Immanuel. “Is There Spiritual Guidance Within Our Legal System? The Hidden Meaning Behind the List of Laws in Deuteronomy.” Aleph Beta, 2024, https://alephbeta.org.

Deuteronomy: Lessons from the Fifth Book of Moses

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As I delve into the Book of Deuteronomy, often called Moses’ “second telling,” I’m struck by its intimate, conversational tone. In his later years, Moses reflects on the Israelites’ forty-year journey through the desert with nostalgia and profound wisdom. This book is more than a historical account; it’s a treasure trove of lessons that resonate deeply with our personal journeys.

Moses’ Plea for Forgiveness

Imagine standing before God, defending a people who have repeatedly faltered. This is precisely what Moses did. Despite the Israelites’ many missteps, Moses fervently advocated for them. His dramatic plea is captured in his words:

“Why should Your anger burn against Your people whom You brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand? Why should the Egyptians speak, saying, ‘He brought them out to harm them, to kill them in the mountains, and to consume them from the face of the earth’?” (Exodus 32:11-12, NKJV)

Moses’ plea reveals a profound personal connection and a courageous commitment to justice and compassion. His ultimate request:

“But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.” (Exodus 32:32, NIV)

After forty days, Moses returned with new tablets, symbolizing divine forgiveness—a moment we commemorate as Yom Kippur. This episode underscores the power of second chances and the possibility of redemption, echoed in God’s words:

“Salachti k’idvarecha/I have forgiven as you, (Moses), requested.”

Justice and Mercy

The concept of ‘din v’chesed,’ which balances justice and mercy, resonates deeply today. It encourages us to reflect on our actions, recognize our imperfections, and strive for growth. This is akin to our introspection during Elul, leading up to Yom Kippur, where we confront our shortcomings and seek forgiveness.

Consider how these themes play out in your own life. Have you faced challenges in balancing justice and mercy? How did you address them?

On Yom Kippur, our confessions are both deeply personal and communal. Leonard Cohen’s song, ‘Who by Fire,’ beautifully captures this sentiment, urging us to contemplate our fates and the potential consequences the new year may bring.

Moses’ Legacy and Teachings

Moses, revered as Moshe Rabbeinu, is celebrated for his exceptional leadership and dedication. He lived to the age of one hundred and twenty, and his legacy is honoured with the traditional blessing: “ad meah v’rim,” wishing for a life of purpose and longevity.

In Deuteronomy, Moses revisits and reaffirms the commandments, offering a roadmap for creating a just society. The commandments in Parsha Ki Tetze (When You Go Out to War) include:

  • Addressing a rebellious son
  • The mitzvah of sending away the mother bird before taking her young (shiluach haken)
  • The prohibition of mixing wool and linen (sha’atnez)
  • Laws against adultery, kidnapping, and ensuring fair treatment of workers
  • The imperative to show special care for widows and orphans
  • Upholding honesty in business, which is tied to a promise of longevity

These laws guided the Israelites and offered us valuable principles for living ethically and compassionately today. Imagine how these principles could influence your actions in both personal and professional settings.

Remembering the Exodus and Eradicating Evil

The Exodus from Egypt is a cherished theme, marked daily in our prayers and during Sabbaths and holidays. Parsha concludes with a command to erase Amalek’s memory, a reminder of the importance of confronting and overcoming evil. How do you address and surmount challenges in your own life?

Continued Learning and Hope

Reflecting on Rabbi Stewart Weiss’s insights, I gain a renewed understanding of Parsha Ki Tetze’s teachings. This week’s Haftorah, Isaiah 54 (Rani Akara), envisions a hopeful and renewed Israel—a joy-filled Jerusalem. This vision mirrors the recent return of Jews to their homeland after years of exile, symbolizing hope and continuity.

As we explore Deuteronomy, we draw inspiration from Moses’ enduring faith, commitment to justice, and vision for a hopeful future. His lessons remind us to navigate our lives with courage, compassion, and a belief in the power of redemption and renewal.

Reflect on moments where you’ve balanced justice and mercy; these reflections can offer valuable insights into your personal and professional life. Consider how the commandments from Parsha Ki Tetze might guide your actions, helping you approach situations with wisdom and integrity. Additionally, confronting and overcoming personal challenges can lead to growth and renewal. May you find inspiration and strength in Moses’ legacy and the enduring messages of hope and redemption in the Book of Deuteronomy.

Forgiveness and its Impact

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As we approach the Jewish New Year of 5782, many take this time for deep reflection and renewal. This period, marked by the month of Elul, encourages us to reflect on the past year, evaluate our actions, and consider their impact on others. It’s a moment for reconciliation, forgiveness, and preparing our hearts for the year ahead.

The Heart of Forgiveness in Jewish Tradition

In Jewish tradition, forgiveness is more than a concept; it is a fundamental practice woven into our daily lives and relationships. It’s not just about uttering “I’m sorry” or “I forgive you,” but seeking genuine reconciliation and healing.

A poignant example is 2 Samuel 13:22. When Absalom was wronged by his brother Amnon, he was advised to confront him directly. Amnon, King David’s son, had wronged his half-sister Tamar, prompting Absalom, Tamar’s full brother, to take drastic action by killing Amnon.¹ This narrative teaches us the importance of addressing issues openly when we’ve been hurt. Sometimes, the offending party may not realize the pain they’ve caused, or misunderstandings may need clarification. It’s our responsibility to initiate reconciliation to prevent lingering resentment and foster genuine healing.

Jewish tradition underscores the importance of making multiple attempts at reconciliation, especially with family members, who are often the ones we both hurt and are hurt by the most. The story of Absalom and Amnon vividly illustrates the necessity of persistent efforts to mend relationships.

Insights from Rabbinical Teachings

Rabbi Avraham Danzig taught that harming another person is profound, and true forgiveness can only be granted once the wrongdoer seeks it.² In other words, one cannot be absolved of wrongdoing until there has been an honest attempt to make things right with the person wronged.

Similarly, Rabbi Yehezkel Levenshtein pointed out that G-d shifts from the Throne of Judgment to the Throne of Mercy when He sees us earnestly seeking reconciliation and forgiveness.³ This reminds us that our actions toward others directly impact our relationship with the Divine.

The Synagogue Service of Rosh Hashanah: A Time for Divine Forgiveness

Rosh Hashanah offers a significant opportunity to seek forgiveness from G-d and ask for blessings in the new year. The prayer service consists of three main sections: Malchuyot, Zichronot, and Shofarot.⁴

  • Malchuyot (Sovereignty): This section acknowledges G-d’s authority and unity in controlling all aspects of life. It reminds us to practice love and kindness towards one another.
  • Zichronot (Remembrances): We recognize G-d’s ongoing role in our lives, even though we no longer experience direct prophecy. We trust that G-d remembers us and is always present.
  • Shofarot (Revelation): This section looks forward, emphasizing that G-d’s revelation is an ongoing process. It’s our responsibility to understand and apply these teachings in our lives.

Rabbi Yair Silverman from Moed in Zichron Yaakov provides insightful reflections on these sections:

“Our prayers beseech G-d to move from the seat of Strict Judgment – Din – to the Seat of Mercy – Rachamim. We ask for life, health, and prosperity. Teshuva (returning to our core self and G-d), Tefila (prayer), and Tzedaka (righteous giving) are the key actions that can sweeten the harshness of G-d’s decree.”⁵

Embracing the New Year with Forgiveness

As we enter the reflective month of Elul and prepare for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we’re given a unique chance to mend relationships, heal old wounds, and reconnect with our inner selves and the Divine. This time of year is not just about making resolutions but about embarking on a meaningful journey through Teshuva (repentance), Tefila (prayer), and Tzedaka (charity), which can lead to profound personal and communal transformation.

Forgiveness: A Path to New Beginnings

As we move into the new year, let’s carry the spirit of forgiveness with us, using it as a tool for renewal and peace. Reflect on your own experiences with forgiveness and think about how you can make amends and seek reconciliation.

May we all find the strength to heal and the wisdom to embrace forgiveness, making it a central and guiding part of our journey ahead. Shana tova ve-metuka—wishing you a sweet and transformative year!

Footnotes:

  1. 2 Samuel 13:22 (King James Version). Bible Gateway. Available at: biblegateway.com.
  2. Danzig, Rabbi Avraham. Chayei Adam. “Harming another person is profound, and true forgiveness can only be granted once the wrongdoer seeks it.” Sefaria. Available at: sefaria.org.
  3. Levenshtein, Rabbi Yehezkel. Tishrei and Yom Kippur. “G-d shifts from the Throne of Judgment to the Throne of Mercy when He sees us earnestly seeking reconciliation and forgiveness.” Chabad.org. Available at: chabad.org.
  4. “Rosh Hashanah Overview.” My Jewish Learning. Available at: myjewishlearning.com.
  5. “Understanding Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.” Chabad.org. Available at: chabad.org.

Yom Kippur: Beyond the Rituals

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Tonight begins Yom Kippur, the sacred Day of Atonement in Judaism. As we embark on this solemn journey, grappling with the concept of atonement may be difficult. Yom Kippur urges us to contemplate, repent, and ask for forgiveness. The rituals and traditions of this holy day raise questions about their significance.

On this sacred day, there are five prescribed abstentions:

  1. Refrain from eating and drinking.
  2. Avoid wearing leather shoes.
  3. Abstain from bathing or washing.
  4. Do not anoint oneself with perfumes or lotions.
  5. Abstain from marital relations.

How do we interpret these abstentions?

Abstaining from routine activities such as eating, drinking, and social interactions holds symbolic significance within our spiritual practices. It allows us to seek a connection with the divine through sincere vulnerability. This state of being stripped down and solitary enables us to approach God authentically.

Fasting serves as a tangible expression of repentance and spiritual contemplation. Conversely, refraining from wearing leather shoes symbolizes humility before the divine. Additionally, abstaining from bathing, using perfumes or lotions, and engaging in marital relations underscores the prioritization of spiritual needs over physical comforts. Collectively, these abstentions create an atmosphere of solemnity, fostering deeper engagement in prayer and facilitating spiritual growth.

So, what is our directive?

During Yom Kippur, the Jewish community gathers in the synagogue to pray individually and connect with G-d. As a community, they confess their sins and seek forgiveness, even though G-d grants forgiveness individually. This forgiveness transforms a day of fear and solemnity into a festive occasion, as G-d establishes “at-one-ment” between humanity and Himself. In Hebrew, “Teshuva” signifies the annual opportunity to return to G-d by acknowledging one’s transgressions and seeking forgiveness. This is the essence of atonement.

Yom Kippur follows the model of the first day of G-d’s forgiveness when the Israelites received absolution for worshiping the golden calf in the desert while Moses ascended the mountain to receive the Heavenly Torah.

The Lord said to Moses: “I have seen these people, and they are indeed a stiff-necked people. Now leave Me alone so that My anger may burn against them and consume them. Then I will make you into a great nation.”

Moses went back to the Lord and spoke:

“Oh, what a great sin these people have committed! They have made gods of gold for themselves. Yet now, if You would only forgive their sin. But if not, please blot me out of the book that You have written.”*1

Thus began the initial real-life process of sin and reconciliation between G-d and the Children of Israel. Despite their transgressions, this path eventually led to ultimate reconciliation and forgiveness. The day of absolution came forty days later when Moses descended the mountain for the second time. On this occasion, G-d accepted the People’s remorse, and Moses presented the second set of Tablets, the Jewish covenant. This narrative serves as the foundational model for the observance of Yom Kippur.

Yom Kippur as a Framework for Reconciliation

Yom Kippur provides a framework for seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with G-d after significant missteps. Despite its fasting rituals, the day embodies not only solemnity but also joy, reconciliation, and the prospect of stepping into the future revitalized.

How does this transformation process happen?

I recently found a helpful video by Rabbi Manis Friedman explaining forgiveness and reconciliation. He discusses two types of forgiveness. The first is natural forgiveness, where you forgive someone who has hurt you to let go of the pain. However, this may not restore the relationship to its previous state.

The second type is forgiveness of reconciliation, occurring when the wrongdoer admits their mistake and genuinely seeks forgiveness. This type can lead to significant change, as realizing the person’s importance in your life can soften your heart. You can watch the video from 9:12 to 20:28 min here.

Moreover, I’ve realized how important this insight is for addressing the struggles of Indigenous and black communities facing historical racism. The complexities surrounding “apologies” make these challenges even more intricate.

Are these apologies genuinely sincere?

This question arises when we receive an apology, and it is not always easy to answer. There are two types of apologies: a simple “I’m sorry” without any commitment to change, and the second, where the person acknowledges their past wrongs and promises to make things right. This second type is more meaningful, as it brings about justice and helps in reconciliation, leading to a deeper mutual understanding and stronger relationships than before.

Embracing the Lessons of Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur exemplifies the power of self-reflection, repentance, and the journey to forgiveness. It offers a timeless framework that resonates deeply with our contemporary struggles for justice and healing. As we navigate the complexities of forgiveness, may we draw inspiration from the rituals of this sacred day, embracing the potential for personal and communal transformation. By acknowledging our shortcomings and committing to meaningful change, we can foster deeper connections and a more compassionate world.

Footnote:

  1. www.biblehub.com

Reflections on Yom Kippur: A Journey Through Tradition

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A few weeks ago, on August 23, 2010, I attended and filmed a conference organized by the Canadian Institute for Jewish Research (CIJR) in Montreal. Rabbi Abraham Cooper of the Wiesenthal Center gave the lunchtime address, acknowledging the intellectual giants presenting that day, such as Professor Wistrich of Hebrew University and Professor Small of Yale University. Instead of engaging in heavy intellectual discourse, Rabbi Cooper shared three impactful incidents from his travels, one of which resonates deeply as we approach our annual Yom Kippur observance.

Rabbi Cooper recounted his extensive international travels, where he met with government officials, the Pope, and the public on issues concerning the Jewish people. During a trip to Japan, he aimed to educate others about The Protocols of the Elders of Zion and stop its publication. However, Rabbi Cooper encountered an unexpected moment. After speaking to a group of Japanese businessmen, he asked if there were any questions. To his surprise, one CEO stood up and asked, “Rabbi Cooper, we now understand that Jews don’t gather to plan world conspiracies and financial domination in their synagogue, but can you tell us what Jews do in a synagogue? Do Jews pray?” This question struck a chord with him, especially as Jews were preparing for their annual twenty-five-hour fast and prayer.

How do you convey the essence of a five-thousand-year tradition while standing on one leg?

For now, I will refer you to Beliefnet’s website for a hands-on explanation of the key elements of Yom Kippur and a description of the actual service. More profoundly, how does one share a tradition that has evolved through the generations while remaining loyal to both the past and the future?

On September 10, 2009, I attended a webinar with Rabbi Irving Yitzchak Greenberg discussing the Yom Kippur prayer service. Rabbi Greenberg and Rabbi Kimmelman explained how the Yom Kippur rituals are not only about the individual Jew but also about the community and all nations. The prayers are carefully crafted to seek peace for individuals and all people in the universe, to be realized under the rule of law, truth, and justice. These are not just empty words but a guideline for achieving harmony.

The fantastic thing about our tradition is that it has been evolving for five thousand years while maintaining its loyalty to the past, the present, and hopes for the future.

The main refrain on Yom Kippur is “Tshuva, tefillah, and tzedaka, maavirin et roah hagzera.” I say this in Hebrew transliteration because each word carries multilayered meanings that are powerful and significant, making them challenging to translate. Let me break it down: tshuva means returning to our sources, tefillah is prayer, and tzedaka refers to performing just acts. Together, these practices hold the power to mollify negative outcomes.

As we enter Yom Kippur, I invite everyone to reflect on the significance of our traditions and the communal aspect of our prayers. Let’s all pray for the teshuva (improved behaviour) of every Jew, every human being, every government, and all peoples in the universe. Even a slight improvement in each individual’s awareness and behaviour can significantly impact us all.

Gmar tov: This traditional greeting at the end of Yom Kippur wishes that our prayers be fulfilled for good in the coming year and throughout our lifetimes.

Shana tova u’metukah. Wishing you a kind and sweet year ahead.