Rabbi's Sermons

Shana Tova!

In accordance with the rabbinical tradition of enumerating the years as recorded in the texts of the Bible, we commemorate the inception of the world’s creation, commencing with Adam and Eve. This Rosh Hashanah marks the advent of the Jewish year 5786. Which questions might we ask about the trials faced by the Jewish people this past year? How have the events in Israel and among the global Jewish diaspora shaped our collective experience? The State of Israel has endured significant challenges, particularly in the two years since the events of October 7^th 2023, marked by ongoing war with Hamas. This period has been fraught with political, military, and societal difficulties, compounded by a rise in antisemitism worldwide. Despite the formidable capabilities of Israel’s defense forces, the toll of ongoing attacks has been heavy, resulting in the loss of precious lives. 48 hostages are still with Hamas. Yet, amidst these adversities, the global Jewish community has demonstrated remarkable solidarity and resilience. How might this unity inspire us as we move forward?
Within our own congregation, Agudath Achim, we too are facing moments of challenge. The Hebrew letters designating this year, Tav-Shin-Pe-Vav (TASHPO), may be interpreted as an acronym for “Tihiye Shana Puriya VeTova - May it be a fruitful and good year”. How might we embrace this aspiration for renewal and strengthened faith in the year ahead?
The Torah teaches that Rosh Hashanah is Yom Hadin, the Day of Judgment. On a personal level, this sacred day invites introspection. What lessons can we draw from our achievements and shortcomings over the past year? How might we strengthen our bonds with family, friends, and even those with whom we have differences, for reconciliation with adversaries, is this a profound act of courage? This is an good moment to reflect on our physical and moral values, renew our commitments, and approach the Divine with humility and faith. Which prayers or intentions might we offer from the depths of our hearts, knowing that every thought and emotion, whether expressed in Hebrew, English, or silently, is received by the Lord with boundless mercy and love?
A distinctive mitzvah of Rosh Hashanah is the commandment to hear the shofar, a practice unique among the world’s faiths. The shofar’s call evokes the binding of Isaac (Akedat Yitzchak), the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, and the hope for the Messianic Age. Yet, one of its most compelling interpretations is that of a personal summons, akin to a telephone ringing in the stillness of the night. Consider: how would you respond when you hear such a call?

• Do we answer with trepidation, anxious about what the call may bring?

• Do we respond with calm curiosity, open to its message?

• Do we react with frustration or indifference, choosing to ignore it?

• Or do we disconnect entirely, unwilling to engage?

In Hebrew, the word for a telephone handset, shforferet, shares its root with shofar. The shofar’s sound is not always melodious; some may even find it jarring. Yet, it is a call we are obligated to heed. We may choose to answer this call with reverence, tranquility, or even uncertainty. Each response opens a channel of communication between our hearts and the Divine. What might it mean for us to embrace this opportunity to connect with God in a profound and personal way?
Let us heed the shofar’s call this Rosh Hashanah, seizing this rare moment to engage in dialogue with the Divine. Whether through gratitude, supplication, or silent reflection, let us ensure our hearts are present in our prayers. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, a heart without words is far more meaningful than words without a heart. Regardless of our fluency in Hebrew or our familiarity with the liturgy, what matters is the sincerity of our intentions.
As we enter the year 5786, may we pray for peace and fraternity among our people and all humanity. May this be a year of good health, forgiveness, prosperity, and growth. Let us draw inspiration from the words of Ahad Ha’am, who taught that it is not Israel that has sustained Judaism for over three millennia, but the enduring light of Judaism that has kept the spirit of Israel alive. In the spirit of the prophet Isaiah, may we strive to be a light unto the nations, carrying the eternal flame of our faith in our hearts.

May the Lord bless you with life, peace, and abundant blessings.

L’Shana Tova Tikatevu VeTechatemu

May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year.

Leshana tova tikatevu vetechatemu!

Shana Tova Umeborechet!