Ba’chatzotzros v’kol shofar ha’riu lifnei haMelech Hashem.
With trumpets and shofar sound, call out before the King, Hashem.
Klal Yisrael is adjured to praise Hashem to the accompaniment of trumpets and a shofar. Shaarei Chaim (based on the commentary of the Ben Ish Chai, Horav Yosef Chaim, zl, m’Bagdad) notes the contrast between these two instruments – both in sound and in function. The sound of trumpets is bright, powerful and resonant. Its tone is based upon the power behind -- and purpose of -- its sound. It can be soft, but is most often used to mark a loud, bold declaration. Its sound is often associated with joyous victory, grandeur, excitement and celebration. The sound of the shofar is raw and deeply resonant. Its sound is unrefined and varies in tone and pitch. It can range from a deep, rumbling note, to a wailing call. Its trembling quality evokes a feeling of awe, solemnity and introspection; its sound is meant to awaken the soul, stir emotion and inspire repentance. The pasuk intimates that man should harness all of his emotions – fear and joy, excitement and trepidation, in the service of Hashem.
