The Power of Teshuva and the Second Reishis

In the bracha of Hashkiveinu, we daven for Hashem to save us from both dangers. V’haser satan mi’lifuneinu umei’achaireinu, save us from the Satan from before and from behind us. In other words, save us from the yetzer hara prior to the aveira, so he should not persuade us to do it. Additionally, if we do what he asks, we ask for protection from his next tactic, when he exploits our guilty feelings, causing us to give up hope.

As we are ready to embark on a new year, let’s remember that we always have the ability to start again. We can utilize the power of the second reishis and return to our previously pure state.