In the mystical teachings of The Zohar, the handbook of Jewish mystics, a profound truth is unveiled — a Divine-human reciprocity concealed within the shofar. It proclaims, “When human beings repent of their sins, they blow the shofar on earth. Its sound ascends On High and awakens the heavenly shofar, and so mercy is aroused and judgment is removed.”
Traditionally, these days of reflection have been marked by rabbinic sermons that scrutinize our missteps and wrongdoings. However, this year calls for a different narrative. The enemy we face is not within; it’s not the familiar foe dwelling in our conscience. Instead, it’s an external pandemic pestilence that has encircled the globe, a force beyond our control. COVID-19 has inflicted deep wounds on the human heart and soul, reshaping individuals, families, and societies in ways that are nothing less than horrific. Blame cannot be laid upon ourselves this year, and the preachers can’t reproach us too harshly.
While we are not without our faults, failings, and frailties, these cannot be the focal point for this unique year. The battle within our conscience undoubtedly requires attention, but not at this moment. As a preacher, I offer this notice: once the pandemic subsides, we will return to the path of introspection and self-improvement. But for now, the shofar’s call to war must yield to the cry for peace.
The shofar will return to its sacred duty when COVID-19 is but a memory. In fact, the retreat of this invisible enemy aligns with the ancient biblical concept of commencing and concluding battles with the resounding blast of the shofar.
This year, our foremost task, even in the absence of the shofar’s call, is to pledge our commitment to nurturing our values and virtues. It’s a promise to ourselves and to the world. Next year, in our spiritual journey, God will provide the verdict on our progress. But this year, our collective agenda revolves around laying the foundation for peace, justice, truth, and love — the timeless values we must tirelessly pursue.
Join Yomtov-Shalom in echoing the spirit of the shofar, as we embark on this profound journey of renewal and growth.
Explore Our Shofar Collection and resonate with Yomtov-Shalom.