Category Archives: Uncategorized

When you sit in the sukkah, you are embraced by Hashem. The Arizal explained that the sukkah’s two and a half walls mirror an arm wrapping around you. From shoulder to elbow, from elbow to hand, and the hand itself. … Continue reading →

During the Yamim Nora’im, the gates of blessing open through our awe.  On Succos, they open through our joy. ~ The Beis Aharon

I believe the true atonement begins on the ninth day, even more than on the tenth. For on the ninth day, Yidden make peace with one another. ~ The Sfas Emes HaKadmon

When one says Viduy, he should think: There will come another time when I will say Viduy—after my passing, when I stand before the Heavenly Court. I will wear my tallis and kittel and confess, just as I do now. … Continue reading →

If you want to know the value of your home, put it up for sale and see what people are willing to pay. If you want to know the value of your Avodas Hashem, check how much effort the yetzer … Continue reading →

The reason the Viduy is organized in alphabetical order (Ashamnu, Bagadnu, Gazalnu…) is because our aveiros tainted all the letters of the alef beis, which are the letters of Creation.  We correct them with Viduy. ~ Reishis Chachma

When you ask for forgiveness, Hashem forgives you right away.  You don’t have to wait a week or a month… You ask Hashem for forgiveness and Hashem forgives.  It is as simple as that. ~ R’ Elimelech Biderman

Teshuvah must be performed with joy. One must have bitachon that Hashem won’t abandon His nation.   We don’t say tachanun on erev Rosh Hashanah, maybe to hint to us that we don’t need to fall on our faces.  Rather, we … Continue reading →

Our sages teach: “Tzedakah saves from death.” (Mishlei 10:2). But more than that, it brings blessing, mercy, and protection for the entire year ahead. The Rambam writes that no mitzvah is as universally powerful in protecting a person as tzedakah. … Continue reading →

The definition of Yiras Shamayim in our generation is to believe that whatever happens to us throughout the year was decreed on Rosh Hashanah.   ~ The Steipler Gaon in the name of the Chazon Ish