On the Move. Shana Tova!

BH

(This Dvar Torah is in memory of Michoel Aron ben Avraham - Michael – Noeth hy”d, who perished in the September 11th, 2001 attack at the Pentagon. Yesterday, Elul 23 on the Jewish calendar, was the corresponding date that year. HY”D.)

This Shabbat, we find ourselves just five short days before the commencement of the New Jewish Year, 5772. We pray that the new year will bring new beginnings and new golden opportunities for each of us.

On Wednesday night of next week we will approach the synagogue with lots on our minds and hearts abotu what we plan for the New Year. We know that G-d is listening.

The second of this weeks Parshiot, Vayeilech, gives meaning and purpose to that transition to a new year.

Vayeilech, which means “he went” (referring to Moses), describes the last days of Moses' life. “Vayeilech” comes from the word 'Halicha' which is also the root for “being on the move.” Not simply “going” somewhere, but a deeper meaning of making a true change to move to another place. A place different hen we currently find ourselves.

With the New Year about to begin we will all experience the idea of “Halicha” independently. But as a nation, we are on the move to greater and brighter horizons.

By taking the time before the New Year to reflect upon the past and make commitments for the future, we are truly preparing for a journey. We are set to be up and on the move. We are in essence being taught to be “movers” and not, heaven forbid, “idlers.” We are tasked with “moving” the world!

To further underatand the idea of “Halicha” another verse in this weeks joint Parsha caught my eye. I mentioned this last year but would like to address it again.

I call this day upon heaven and earth as witnesses. I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. And you shall choose life, so that you and your children may live. (Deuteronomy 30:19)

These words are written in the first of this weeks two Parshiot (Torah portions). Choose life? Who would choose death anyways? Furthermore, “Choose life so you shall live?” Is that not redundant?

Certainly, as we know the Torah does not have a single letter that is extra, so of course, it is not redundant; but how?

Simple: Lets take a look at the two Parshiot (portions) names’ this week. Nitzavim - standing and Vayeilech - to move. Right now we are standing in one place. In order to move from one place a step needs to be taken. Be it even a tiny step, that's all you need to make the transfer from Nitzavim to Vayeilech!

Choosing life to live is certainly not remaining in one place! Its the act of moving forward. Making a difference. Bettering the world and refining ourselves.

May it be the will of G-d that he grant each of us the greatest of blessing for the upcoming year. May we all only know of happiness and joy in 5772. May the Land of Israel see its oppressors stand down and may the people merit to experience peaceful relations.

May G-d continue to protect our brothers and sisters who stand guard over her. And may G-d continue to give the leaders of the State of Israel the continued wisdom and knowledge to do whats right for Land and the People.

I take this opportunity to wish you a happy and healthy, sweet new year! May you and your loved ones experience much joy, happiness and growth in the year to come!

"K'siva V'chasima Tova, L'shana Tova U'mesuka!"
"May you be inscribed & sealed for a sweet new year!"