Rosh Hashanah Preparation #1

Before we perform a mitzva we say a bracha. This brief moment helps us to focus and internalise what might otherwise be a robotic perfunctory physical action. The bracha often tells us what the mitzva is. For example, there is no mitzvah on Rosh Hashanah to blow the shofar. The mitzvah is to hear it. This is the only thing we absolutely must do on both days of Rosh Hashanah. In the text of this type of bracha we say “asher Kideshanu bemitzvotav, Ve’tzivanu.”

Each mitzva we do is transformative. When we connect to our tradition when we live Jewishly and express our unique relationship with Hashem we strengthen our connection with Hashem and the Jewish people . Some people argue that when they feel it, then and only then they will do something Jewish. Unfortunately that is not how the system works. By doing we will feel more connected. Think of a shadow. A shadow does what you do. The closer we move to the community to Torah to Judaism the closer it will be.

When we translate  Kideshanu as holy or sanctified we don’t learn very much about the experience of doing a mitzvah. However when we understand the term as unique or  special we begin to appreciate that even the so called easy mitzvah has value and meaning.  We are more than capable even as cynical adults of appreciating small acts and their transformative power. Remember back to when your child took their first steps, every little one was met with  profound joy and pride.  They didn’t know what the fuss was about, but as adults we did.  This suggests, that an experience can have objective value even if the participants don’t always understand it. Our tradition places tremendous value on each and every mitzva.  As Rosh Hashanah approaches everyone of us can do more, can connect more to our tradition. So please think of a mitzva, which really means connection and strengthen your personal and collective connection to Judaism and the Jewish people.

If you can’t think of one, speak to me, together we can explore what you might want to take on.