Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

I wish to share brief thoughts regarding the Shofar. For many Jews, it is one of the most important symbols in Judaism.

The tradition of the Shofar harkens back to the beginning of Jewish history in the famous Abraham-Isaac narrative.

The use of the Shofar harkens back to the events at Mount Sinai when our people formally accepted God's Commandments.

The symbolism of the Shofar also points to the ultimate future of the Messianic era and the end of days.

Maimonides writes that the Shofar is akin to an alarm clock awakening us from our slumber.

This year, the Shofar will be sounded only on Sunday, the second day of Rosh Hashanah. It is not sounded when Rosh Hashanah coincides with Shabbat.

The Shofar itself must be bent, symbolizing one who is contrite, humble, and modest.

If one owns a Shofar, that person can sound it for his family and neighborhood.

Traditionally, the Shofar must be heard in person. Because of the exigent circumstances caused by the pandemic, a number of leading authorities are permitting one to fulfill the Mitzvah of hearing the Shofar via such electronic means as livestream.

Many shuls will provide outdoor opportunities to hear the Shofar while adhering to safety measures. At Beth Emeth, there will be an outdoor Shofar sounding following the young families service, a half hour following the sanctuary service, at the beginning and end of Tashlich, and prior to Mincha outside the synagogue.

I hope that we avail ourselves to hear the sounds of the Shofar and to internalize its lessons.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison