Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe addresses a fundamental question about repentance: Can someone knowingly continue doing wrong, arrive on Yom Kippur, ask for forgiveness, and expect Hashem to accept the apology? Human beings can observe expressions and behavior, but we cannot see another person’s thoughts or intentions. Hashem can. We may fool other people—and sometimes even ourselves—but we cannot fool the One who sees directly into the heart.
Hashem desires the heart, but sincere intentions do not eliminate the importance of proper action. Mitzvahs and established prayers provide the channels through which we build our relationship with Hashem. At the same time, perfect pronunciation and outward conformity are not substitutes for genuine feeling. The story of the simple peasant who crowed like a rooster on Yom Kippur demonstrates that an unpolished cry from the heart may be more precious than beautifully recited prayers lacking genuine connection.
Elul is therefore a time to turn prayer from routine into relationship. Rabbi Wolbe encourages listeners to speak to Hashem throughout the day—in their own words, while making coffee, before eating, and during ordinary moments. Rather than attempting a complete spiritual transformation overnight, begin with one sincere “Thank You, Hashem.” Day by day, these simple conversations can prepare the heart for a meaningful Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and an extraordinary new year.
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This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky Botvin
Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on August 18, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on August 22, 2023
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About the Host:
Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org
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Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Elul, #RoshHashanah, #YomKippur, #HighHolidays, #Teshuvah, #Shofar, #40days
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