Για να το διαβάσετε στα Ελληνικά, κάντε κλικ εδώ
Between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, we have 10 days which are called the “Ten Days of Teshuva” (including Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur). Our Sages teach us that during these days, it is easier to do Teshuva (often translated as Repentance but literally meaning Return to G-d). It is an auspicious time because G-d is closer to us.
During these days, we add some prayers which are related to the judgement of the world happening during this period. We also add some sentences in the Amida (Silent Prayer).
We say the complete Avinu Malkenu (Our Father our King) instead of the regular one, where we ask G-d to listen to our requests, like a Father who loves His children and like a King who cares for His subjects.
Our Sages explain that these days connect Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. The judgment of the world starts on Rosh Hashana and ends on Yom Kippur. It is important during these days of judgment to do Teshuva and behave appropriately, even if we do not do so during the rest of the year.
It is interesting that if we take out the festive days of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, we have exactly 7 days, a complete week. Our Sages explain that each day of the week corresponds to this day of the week of the past year. I.e., on the Sunday between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, we ought to make Teshuva for all the Sundays of the year. Thus, we will prepare for a good year materially and spiritually.
Shabbat Shalom and Gmar Chatima Tova,
Arie from the Yeshiva
