In the festivals of this special month we recognize G-d’s total sovereignty, are reminded to check our deeds, realize that we can always return, are inspired to never despair, all as guided by the wonderful path of Torah
[Elul, 5704]
Dear Friend:
The month of Tishrei is very colorful. Every possible atmosphere of Jewish life finds expression in this month, in which we have Solemn Days, Fast Days, and Days of Rejoicing. It is not a coincidence that the first month of the year has "samples” of every shade and color of Jewish life, for these "samples” are intended to give us an introduction to, and practical guidance for the rest of the year. By observing the special days of Tishrei in their proper spirit, we are initiated into a truly Jewish life, in accordance with the spirit of the Torah, during the whole year following.
What can we learn from the special days of Tishrei?
a. To begin with we have Rosh-Hashanah the beginning of the New Year, the day when the first man to be created proclaimed G-d’s sovereignty over the whole Universe. When we are about to begin anything, we must always remember that G-d is the Creator of Heaven and Earth and the sole Ruler of the Universe, and that our action or venture must have Divine approval. This is further emphasized by—
b. The Ten Days of Repentance which remind us that since we are the servants of the King of the Universe we must keep a check on our deeds to ensure that they comply with the wishes of the Master. However, since we are only human beings, we are liable to fail on occasions. This is why G-d gives us—
c. Yom-Kippur to impress upon us the realization that it is never too late to return back to the right path, provided we do it sincerely, completely repenting of, and casting away, our evil habits of the past, and solemnly undertaking to mend our ways in the future. If we make this firm resolution, G-d will forgive us, and "cleanse" us completely of our sins. Difficult though this path may appear to be—
d. Succoth helps us not to despair in our days of trial, even if we find ourselves in the minority, for G-d is our protector, as He clearly showed us by the Clouds of Glory with which He surrounded us during the forty years’ wandering through the desert after the Departure from Egypt. Finally, in order to know how to lead our lives so as to comply with G-d’s wishes, we have,—
e. Shemini Atzereth and Simchath Torah, for in the Torah G-d has given us Divine laws of justice and righteousness and a true guide in life; by shaping our lives accordingly, we are assured of true happiness, both in this world and in after life. For the Torah is a "tree of life to them that take fast hold of it, and its supporters are happy.”
These, briefly are some of the main lessons of Tishrei and there can be no doubt that by following them faithfully, the New Year will be a happy one, both spiritually and materially, and the blessing which we give each other ותחתםתכתבטובהלשנה will surely be fulfilled. That is what I wish every one of you.
Rabbi Mendel Schneerson
Chairman. Executive Committee
Of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch.
