As we approach the High Holidays and we reflect on the past year's happenings with respect to the future as well as to the past, Psalm 121 comes to mind. "I raise my eyes upon the mountain whence will come my help. My help is from Hashem, Maker of heaven and earth." The ongoing tragic happenings in Israel and the relentless siege that our brethren are subjected to is very painful and should be felt by every Jew. This is not a war where soldiers are in combat with each other on a battlefield, it is a war waged against innocent babies, children; and a civilian population who carry no guns and want to live in peace. It is a war where senseless tragedy and terror prevail. There is no end in sight.

At this auspicious time of the year, each and everyone of us have to raise our eyes to the mountain and ask G-d how long and from whence will our help come. We are a people tied not by countries, but by our having received the Torah. Our bond and our ties, our feeling of unity with the people of Israel is stronger than ever. As we stand and pray for a healthy, happy and successful year, let us pray above all for peace.

Rosh Hashanah 5762 | Back to Rabbi's Messages