TEN DAYS OF AWE

TEN DAYS OF REPENTANCE

Tradition tells us that on Rosh Hashanah three books are opened. The first records the names of those who are thoroughly righteous people. The second lists the thoroughly wicked and the Third holds the names or those who are neither completely righteous nor completely wicked. Our sages have stated that no one knows in which category they fall.

These next ten days are known as Yamim Noraim (the days of awe) and the Ten Days of Teshuva (repentance). During this time people pray for repentance in Slichot (prayers), many fast on the third day (Fast of Gedaliah-Jeremiah 41:1-31), give to charity, say “sorry” to all who they have offended or had arguments with this past year. This is to be completed before Yom Kippur arrives and the Neilah prayers are said. At that time, it is said, the judgment of G-d is sealed for the coming year.

Rav Shaul (Paul, in Romans 3:9) quotes from Psalm 14:2-3 states, none is righteous, just and truthful and upright, and conscientious, no, not one. Further, in Romans 3:12 Rav Shaul reminds us that all have turned aside; together they have gone wrong.

During these days of repentance all are given the opportunity to do Teshuva (turn around) before the gates are closed. Let us, therefore, cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light (Romans 3:13ff). Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in immorality and debauchery (sensuality and licentiousness), not in quarreling and jealousy. But clothe yourself with the Lord, our Messiah (Yeshua) and make no provision (indulging) for the flesh. Put a stop to thinking about the evil cravings of your physical nature.

May this year, and these Ten Days of Repentance, truly be a time of total commitment to our G-d and King.

Rabbi Yaacov Zamstein

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