Accepting Hashem’s Kingdom

Aroch Siach, Yamim Noraim, an address from 5714 (1953)

Chazal set a role for all of the special days. We should clarify to what extent the days fulfill their roles, including their special place within the year.

Two Creations

from Aroch Siach, p. 8-9

The world was created twice – one that was preceded by a state of pre-creation, and another time after the world was already created. The first creation happened in the first month and the second one was in the seventh month.

An Invitation to the Whole World

“All the nations clasp hands, call out to Hashem with the voice of songs of praise” (Tehillim 47:2). Before we begin the day’s main mitzva, shofar-blowing, whose purpose is to declare the dominion the King of the World, we invite all of humanity to join us. In every place over the seven seas that Jews find themselves, in shuls, batei midrash, and squalid barracks of DP camps behind barbed wire, we repeat this call seven times. We turn to great and powerful nations who rule over waterways and land masses, and to nations who are preoccupied with trying to raise their crowns over those of other nations. We even turn to hateful, jealous nations, who are busy sharpening their weapons and preparing for yet another war. The Nation of Israel calls them to join us as we coronate Hashem. We urge the clasp of the hand of other nations, obligating them to leave the acts of wickedness and violence. Let them unite under the crown of the exalted King and announce that we all together accept the yoke of His Kingdom.