ASKING FOR FORGIVENESS

Sunday evening, according to the Jewish calendar, begins Yom Kippur, which translates as the Day of Atonement—a day of repentance and asking for forgiveness.

Traditional and Orthodox Jews follow certain rituals. After the last meal on Sunday evening before Yom Kippur starts,  they fast for the entire day—no food or water—and spend much of the day in the synagogue, praying from a special prayer book. The prayers are in Hebrew, sometimes accompanied by translations into English, Russian, or other languages. There are also other traditions, such as wearing white and not wearing leather shoes.

But what about those who are not religious, or even those who are not Jewish? Don’t we also need to ask for forgiveness? And from whom?

If you believe in God, perhaps the answer is simple: ask God to forgive you for what you have done during the past year. But before asking God for forgiveness, perhaps we should ask forgiveness from the people around us.

During the past year, we may not always have acted to the best of our abilities. Sometimes we realize that we could have done something differently or treated someone better.

One of the Yom Kippur prayers asks for forgiveness for sins we may know about—and even those unknown to us. So, to my friends: if I offended you, disappointed you, or did something during the past year that wasn’t right, please forgive me. Next time, I’ll try to do better!

I also asked myself: What images should I share with you for Yom Kippur? I decided on roses. They are simply beautiful. Enjoy them, and thank you for everything. I look forward to being here with you and serving you in the coming year.

G’mar Chatimah Tovah—may you be sealed for a good year.

Share it with your friends.