Dear Friends,
Rosh Hashanah is a multi-layered, spiritual time when we focus and pray earnestly and fervently to G-d. At this juncture, we share that which is deepest within our hearts. Our sages teach us that during these auspicious days, our collective voice, Koleinu, resonates more profoundly than at any other time of the year.
Yet, shouldn’t we be asking G-d to listen to our prayers alone rather than our voice? Why emphasize the voice – a simple vehicle that articulates our innermost feelings and aspirations?
The Chasidic master, the Baal Shem Tov, tells of a king who had an only son. While his progeny was well-educated, he was also over-indulged. The king hoped his beloved son would follow a righteous, noble path and eventually rule the kingdom. However, the son chose to associate with shady characters, company that didn’t befit a child of royalty with responsibilities.
The prince rebelled and sought adventure far away from his palatial residence of birth. He mindlessly wandered from town to town, all-the-while becoming more estranged and detached from his previous life. His clothing became tattered, his features weathered – he was, for all intents and purposes, unrecognizable.
Years passed. The former prince suffered greatly and ruminated over his stubborn, self-imposed exile. He regretted his behavior and decided to return to his father, the king, to seek forgiveness. After many trials and tribulations, the wayward son fell to his knees and pleaded to be granted permission to see his royal parents.
Entry denied. In desperation, the prince shouted and cried, “Father, if you can’t identify my face or any features, surely you still recognize my voice - that hasn’t changed!” The king heard the commotion and did concede it was indeed the voice of his only son, the prince. In a moment of compassion and love, the reunion was complete.
It is this authentic voice that we offer Hashem over the High Holy Days. It is our signature identity that runs deeper than anything material we may casually or deliberately throw on. There is no disguising it.
By collectively raising our voices, we entreat our Father in Heaven to grant us a Shana Tovah U’metukah – a happy and sweet New Year!
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos