An Inspiration to Learn During Rosh Hashanah

By Rabbi Ariel Platt, Director of J Life

Rabbi and author, Alan Lew once said, “We are constantly becoming, and continuously redefining ourselves. This doesn’t just happen on Rosh Hashanah.” Rosh Hashanah may be our annual reminder and crash course in personal growth, but as all of us know, each day there is a possibility of transformation. 

The Jewish New Year is a great jumping off point for self-discovery, growth, and change. We don’t take the time to reflect, apologize for certain choices, and make new year’s resolutions for nothing! From Rosh Hashanah on we have an amazing opportunity to make new choices and take action that we hope will make the new year ahead better. One great way to create less daunting action steps is to set small tasks or goals that will feel good to check or cross off the list and build on strengthening our well-being.

Reflecting on the past, there are many avenues in which we seek, grow, and become more of who we are meant to be each year. Some life lessons happen naturally, while others we need to explore and discover for ourselves. Being curious, expanding our knowledge, answering questions, and learning, is an important form of growth, and a great goal to set. Knowledge helps us grow stronger, and what better way to enhance our personal journeys than to dive into our heritage. There is a lot we can learn from our roots that can empower our future. Our Jewish heritage is filled with wisdom, depth, and joy.

For all the soul searchers, community seekers, lifelong learners, and those who are interested in conversion this is the time for your curiosity to flourish. Registration is now open for our Miller Introduction to Judaism Program, developed at American Jewish University, and co-sponsored by the Baltimore Board of Rabbis. Class begins Wednesday, October 4th at 7pm. This program dives into the Holidays, Shabbat, Theology, History, Israel, Ritual, Life cycle events, and so much more.

Rosh Hashanah is a time of inspiration and new beginnings. This year let Rosh Hashanah be an inspiration to learn.

L’Shanah Tovah!