RABBI’S MESSAGE: THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS

What is it that makes Judaism so special and unique?

For me, it is the emphasis on how meaning is found in relationships. Think about it. What are all the Biblical stories about (especially, those in the book of Genesis), if not about the kind of relationships we have with each other, and, all the more so, with God? Perhaps, the reason I’m so drawn to Hassidic thought is that it is built on this understanding of our faith. Rather than focus on the strict and important observance of the Mitzvot (commandments), it is built on the theology of relationship. It is based on the understanding that it is our relationships, our emotions, our feelings toward one another, (and I would add nature) which drives us to do what we do. Hassidism sees the world through poetic eyes and personifies divinity in all that is.

For example, Rebbe Nachman of Bratzlov would teach:
“It is good to pray and dialogue with God in the field amongst the grass and trees. When a person prays in the field, then all the plants and animals join in the prayer”.

I’ve always believed that when one can perceive divinity in a blade of grass, then all the more so, one sees the value in the relationships amongst people.


As we begin a new year, you and I find ourselves starting our relationship. I look forward to getting to know you, and will do my best to make our relationship one that is meaningful for us both.

But, I know that every relationship is a double-edged sword, and there are bound to be moments of regret; Jewish tradition knows this too.

Forgiveness is difficult. We all know that there have been a few times in our lives when we have gone up to someone, or someone has come up to us and sincerely asked for forgiveness. And, if you have experienced such a moment then you know how much effort (emotionally, and spiritually) it takes.

Why, then, does Judaism have to start the year this way? Wouldn’t it make more sense to start us off with something easier, and then have us build up our confidence before presenting us with such a challenge? What is it that makes forgiveness so essential that it would become the first thing we have to address?

In the beginning of the documentary film, The Power of Forgiveness someone says: “Before one can be forgiving there must be compassion in his or her soul.” I think that just about says it all. Before forgiveness, compassion must be present, and compassion is at the core of every relationship.

The High Holy Days remind us that Judaism starts with compassion as one of the cornerstones of our existence. It also reminds us that finding the strength (if not humility) to ask for forgiveness is what rekindles the compassion within that makes each of us Divine.

At the end of the day, tishuvah – forgiveness – begins with one person reaching out to the person next to him or her. And to that end, Erin and I, along with our entire family, wish all of you a Shanah Tova – a good year. For all of us, may it be filled with blessing, health and joy, and I look forward to the moments we share.

In the next month there will be many opportunities to do that. In addition to the High Holy Day services, on Rosh Ha-Shannah afternoon please join us at Heritage Park for the annual Tashlich service at 1:00, with our annual picnic immediately following the service. Join us as well, on Sukkot/Simchat Torah, October 1st for a Kiddish in the sukkah following our service.

Shannah Tova U’me-tuakah,

Rabbi Barnett J. Brickner