Forgiveness \ Day 2 \ 30 Days to Teshuvah
"If we make the proper preparation to improve our deeds, then we have nothing better than the Day of Atonement, for it effects atonement when accompanied by repentance" (Ohr Yisrael, Letter Seven).
Many people associate repentance with feeling guilty over one's past misdeeds. Is that really what repentance is?
The goal of Mussar, particularly during the Ten Days of Repentance, is to inspire us to do Teshuvah. Therefore, it is essential that we clearly define Teshuvah, in order to clarify exactly what is involved in the Teshuvah process.
The purpose of Teshuvah is to awaken HaShem's compassion and attain His forgiveness.
Teshuvah is a general term that embraces a wide spectrum of spiritual rectifications. The term "Teshuvah" refers both to the rectification of a single misdeed and to the rectification of the actions of one's entire lifetime.
Repentance is a process of cleansing and transformation that requires inspiration and wisdom. Since it involves many aspects of our lives, it is very complex. Additionally, since repentance deals with recalling and correcting our past, it can seem overwhelming and threatening. It is essential to keep in mind that Teshuvah should never lead to depression.
We will soon see that Rav Yisrael's path to repentance does not dwell on guilt. Instead it focuses on sharpening the awareness of the consequence of our deeds. Once we develop the awareness of the consequences of our actions, it effectively motivates us to improve ourselves.
The Rambam teaches the four steps of the repentance process that leads to HaShem's forgiveness. It is important to remember that the entire phenomenal purification of Teshuvah occurs through these four steps, which are:
1) Refrain from committing or contemplating the misdeed.
2) Resolve not to repeat the misdeed.
3) Regret committing the misdeed.
4) Recite an oral confession to HaShem.
Tip: Feel encouraged that with this method you can successfully repent and receive HaShem's forgiveness.
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