It is amazing how our Sages set up the Torah readings, arranging them such that we often see an obvious connection to the time of year in which each portion is read. For example, Nitzavim is read before Rosh HaShanah every year, and talks about returning to G-d and starting over:

“And you shall return to HaShem your G-d, and you shall listen to His voice, like all that I have commanded you today, you and your children, with all your hearts and with all your souls.” [Deut. 30:2]

It’s right there “in black and white” — G-d knows that we will stray, we will not behave the way He told us that we should, and He gives us the opportunity to start over. It’s never too late to turn a new leaf, to resolve to do better — but this *is* the best time of the year.

Let us read the words of the Torah, and, as it says, return to Him with love. May all our transgressions of last year be wiped away as we start anew.

Good Shabbos!
Rabbi Yaakov Menken
Director, Project Genesis – Torah.org

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