The parsha begins with the words “אתם נצבים היום” – “You are standing today.” The Zohar HaKadosh teaches us that the word “היום” is a reference to Rosh Hashanah.
We have explained in the past that the Torah is hinting to us the key to a successful Rosh Hashanah. The very next word is “כלכם,” all of you together. When we stand united, it means we are thinking not only of ourselves but of one another. Our tefillos include the needs of our fellow Jews. When Hashem judges us as part of the tzibbur, we benefit from the promise the Gemara states in Horiyos: “ציבור לא מת” – the collective Jewish people do not die. Being part of “the company called Bnei Yisrael” brings extra siyata d’Shmaya.
But there is another powerful lesson here that is essential for a meaningful and successful Rosh Ha-shanah, and it connects deeply to something I have been encouraging in the community.
A talented therapist, Mordechai Weinberg, recently opened a new clinic called Serenity. He and his team of experienced therapists have built a place that is accessible, compassionate, and professional. Importantly, they accept many insurances, which often removes the main barrier preventing families and individuals from receiving the help they truly need.
If this could benefit you or someone you know, I urge you to reach out to them and mention my name. Phone number to call: 845-286-2210
So how does this tie into Rosh Hashanah?
The essence of Rosh Hashanah is clarity. It is the day we stand before Hashem to see where we truly are. The Aseres Yemei Teshuvah then gives us the opportunity to chart a path forward – to repair, to grow, and to return. But that journey cannot even begin without honesty. If we are not truthful with ourselves, we remain stuck pretending to others, and even to ourselves, that all is well when, in fact, we may be struggling.
Therapy can be a powerful tool to help uncover that honesty.
It opens a space where we can look at ourselves clearly, without fear, and begin the journey toward truth, clarity, and ultimately, a sweet and successful new year.
Shanah tovah u’mesukah! May it be a year of clarity, growth, and unity for all of us.
RABBI DANIEL COREN
