Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

One of the well known poetic passages on the High Holy Days is "Hineni - Here I Am," recited by the Cantor before Musaf. Authored in the 16th century in Eastern Europe, the writer expresses his humility standing as a Shaliach Tzibbur, messenger for the congregation, on the most sacred days of the year. The passage is relevant to all of us, as we are all factored into the prayer leader's concerns.

Already, the idea of "Hinayni - Here I am" harkens back to our founding father, Abraham. In the Torah reading for the second day of Rosh Hashanah, Abraham responds to God, to his son Isaac, and to the angel of God with the expression "Hinayni - Here I am." 

The commentary found in Mahzor Lev Shalem states: "The term indicates readiness, attentiveness, receptivity, and responsiveness to instructions."

"Hineni/Hinayni - Here I am" is not for Cantors only or for Abraham only. We are all included in the Cantor's prayer, and we are all children of Abraham. Are we ready to say "Here I am" on these High Holy Days and throughout the year? Are we prepared to say "Hinayni" before God and community?

Rabbi Howard Morrison