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Orchard of Delights Va’etchanan
and be prepared to deal with the issues that come up in a sincere and anything for the food was not kosher, but he went in order to be
realistic manner. When we do so in the name of true rectification, polite and show his appreciation for the sponsors. While there he
Divine assistance is forthcoming. noticed a man staring at him intently. After a while Rabbi Carlebach
Even though the teshuvah process we are describing requires decided to approach him to see if there was anything wrong. The
serious spiritual work, Chassidut reminds us not to lose sight of the man was slightly embarrassed and explained that he was staring at
fundamental sense of joy that should pervade all Divine service. him because he wanted to see if he would eat anything that was not
Furthermore, it reminds us not to become so involved in the process kosher. “Numerous Jews come here,” he said, “and have such nice
that we lose sight of where we are heading. The next portion, Ki things to say, but then I see so many of them not following Jewish law
Tavo, reminds us of this by beginning with the following descriptive and this leaves me disillusioned. You spoke and sang so beautifully
passage: “And it will be (vehayah) when you come into the Land which tonight; I was praying so hard you would not disappoint me.”
God, your God, gives you for an inheritance” (Deuteronomy 26:1). The other story Rabbi Carlebach told was about his father, Rabbi
Our Sages have noted that when a book or Torah portion begins Naftali Carlebach, who always spoke and dressed in a very dignified
with the word “vehayah,” this signals great joy. The Jewish people’s manner. One time his father had to briefly run to the corner store to
greatest joy is entering and taking possession of the Promised Land. buy something for the house. Rabbi Shlomo noticed that before he
On a private level, this entering the Land, figuratively represents went outside he stopped at the mirror, straightened his tie, combed
the great joy found in attaining one’s goals, especially when they his hair, and brushed off his hat. Noticing his son’s surprise at his
are pure and holy. Chassidut teaches that we need to approach Rosh making such an effort just to run to the corner store, his father
Hashanah and the Ten Days of Repentance with joy as well as with explained that as a rabbi he was a representative of the Torah at all
awe. times. If he looked unkempt it would reflect poorly on the Torah and
On the Shabbat before Rosh Hashanah, we always read the even upon God; therefore, it was incumbent upon him to not only act
portion of Nitzavim which begins with the stirring words, “And you in a dignified and ethical manner at all times but even to ensure that
are standing today, all of you, before God” (Deuteronomy 29:9). The his external appearance was also beyond reproach.
Zohar states that this verse is actually referring to Rosh Hashanah. Rabbi Naftali’s concern applies to every Jew who, willingly or not,
We can only stand before God on Rosh Hashanah with an undivided is identified by the nations of the world as representing the Torah and
heart and a clear conscience if we maximize the opportunity provided ultimately God. Although it sometimes seems unfair to be judged by
by Elul. The portions leading up to the Days of Awe carefully a higher standard, ultimately, it is a privilege to be expected to act in
instruct us in how to maximize these days and perform the essential a way that reflects the wisdom and discernment of the Torah; for as
spiritual work that must be undertaken. If we listen and internalize the Torah itself testifies, this is not only what God expects of us but
their messages, we fulfill the dictum of “living with the times” in its what the nations of the world expect as well.
highest form.
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