By Rabbi Sari Laufer
For many in this community, that question—and the melody to which it is often set—is a hallmark of the High Holy Days. Amidst the majesty and awe of the Unetaneh Tokef, these stark questions are meant to bring us to the heart of these days, questions about the lives we live and the choices we make. The words, which are meant to inspire—and maybe intimidate—us with a dramatic reminder of God’s power, end on a note of human agency. We are taught that prayer, repentance, and righteous deeds can change our experience in life and in the world.
This week, of course, I think these words take on additional meaning. Who by fire—families just miles from here picking up the wreckage of their homes, Oregon’s beloved Gorge ablaze. Who by water—we all watched as two of the most powerful hurricanes in centuries reached Texas and Florida. Lives were lost, homes were destroyed, and thousands of people are left to pick up the pieces of their lives.
But, we are taught that prayer, repentance, and righteous deeds can change and shape our experience—and this week, in particular, is a reminder of all three. Repentance—turning towards one another and the Divine, repairing relationships that might be strained, preparing to ask for and offer forgiveness for small slights so that we might come together in times of need. Righteous deeds—the remarkable stories of ordinary men and women reaching out to help their families, friends, and the strangers who need them.
If you are looking to help, here are some ways you can.
And prayer. This Shabbat, we read the words of Nitzavim, words that we will hear again on Yom Kippur. These words from Deuteronomy remind us: You stand this day, all of you, before Adonai Your God. The midrash goes on to say:
You stand: When? When you are one united community, this day before Adonai Your God.
This means, the rabbis teach, that each of us comes to these prayers, to this community—from a different place. A different place physically, historically, emotionally, and spiritually. But, they go on to say, none of us can truly stand (atem nitzavim) unless we are as united as one community in spiritual matters.
Next week, we will stand as one community—albeit in three holy spaces!—to welcome in the New Year. May it be a year of teshuvah—of return and repair, a year of tzedakah—a year of righteous deeds and meaningful action, and a year of tefillah—a year of prayer and spiritual growth.
My family (Ben, Kobi, and Orli) and I are so happy to have joined a community dedicated to these goals, and look forward to celebrating a New Year dedicated to making meaning and changing the world…together.
Shabbat Shalom and Shanah Tovah.