[img]96|left|Shachar||no_popup[/img]Dateline Jerusalem — In less than two weeks on Wednesday night, Set. 8, it will be the anniversary of the birth of mankind 5771 years ago. It begins at sundown, which is the start of the day, not midnight, as it is for most people. Although this is the year 2010 for most of the world, the Jewish calendar counts back to the time of Adam and Eve.

Rosh HaShana, literally the “head of the year,” is the Jewish new year, a day spent in prayer in synagogue, a time of reflection and repentance, when the world, not just Jews is judged by Hashem (G-d). It is a time for asking forgiveness from our friends, and our enemies, for any intentional and non-intentional sins or transgressions we may have committed against our fellow man. It is also a time of repentance when Jews ask for forgiveness from Hashem for our transgressions related to Him.

Unlike Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, Jews do not celebrate the new year by attending parties, drinking champagne, shooting off fireworks or playing with noisemakers. We spend two days and two nights attending prayer services. About the only “noise” you hear are the beautiful sounds of the shofar, a ram's horn that is blown like a trumpet. When I hear the sounding of the shofar, I always get tears in my eyes. What an emotional experience it is for me to be here in Israel, to imagine the blowing of the shofar in ancient times. I feel as though I truly have returned “home.”

According to Jewish law, repentance must be sincere. Just saying “I am sorry” are wasted words without really meaning them. If, after asking for forgiveness from our friends and enemies, the apology is not accepted, then we must ask again two more times. After three serious and sincere attempts showing true regret, the person repenting is no longer held accountable for the transgression. The person who refuses to accept a sincere apology is now liable for the transgression of the person repenting, as it is transferred to the person who holds the grudge.

If I have said anything or done anything that has caused any of you distress or pain, or injured you in any way, whether by word or action or deed, or in any way at all, I apologize to you. I ask for your acceptance of my apology, and I ask for your forgiveness.

May you be inscribed in the Book of Life for a good and favorable year. Wishing you and your families a good and sweet new year.

L'hitraot. Shachar