The Best of Days \ Yom Kippur
D'var Torah: Our Sages tell us, "There are no days as good for Israel like Yom Kippur" (Ta'anis 26b). The great, incomparable good of Yom Kippur emanates from the infinite compassion of HaShem that shines on Klal Yisrael. On this holy day, HaShem comes close and lovingly forgives all of our misdeeds from the past year. Even more, in His supreme mercy, HaShem cleanses us of all our flaws, mistakes, and impurities. In HaShem's unbounded compassion, we emerge from Yom Kippur, fresh and pure, like a newborn child. Moreover, we are more spiritually elevated and more beloved to HaShem than before we engaged in the process of repentance.
Moral: The awareness of the light, love, and total forgiveness that HaShem reveals to us onYom Kippur -- makes it the happiest day of the year.
Application: Envision the Cohen Gadol (High Priest) emerging from the Holy of Holies, after completing his service on Yom Kippur. See his countenance shining with joy and holiness. Imagine hearing Hashem saying to you and all Klal Yisrael, "I forgive you and cleanse all of your misdeeds. You are a new creation." Rejoice on Yom Kippur in HaShem's unbounded love for you, His infinite mercy, and His unabated compassion. (Based on the commentary of Rabbi Yisrael Salanter) |
L"N R' Yochanon Mordecai ben Ephraim and Moras Esther Leah bas Yehudah Yoseph
Refuah Shleimah
Yochanon Baruch ben Fruma Ettta Riva bas HenyaZivia bas RaizelLeah Hadassah bas Michal ChanaChava Bas Michal ChanahChaya Harriet Bat Sophie Lee Mazal Malkah Mollie Bas Sarah Yakir Efraim Ben Rachel Devora
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