CHIEF RABBI MERVIS for prayer , tefillah , is linked to tofel , which means connecting to a greater power . We pray with a deep sense of humility and responsibility because we understand that we can never simply be a ‘ law unto ourselves ’. The power of prayer has always been and will always be a force for good ; a spiritual connection with something greater than ourselves , elevating our souls and directly affecting our future actions . We will never fully comprehend the potency of our prayers or how things would have turned out without them but we do know that while terror thrives on a sense of narcissism and superiority , through prayer , we act with modesty and accountability .
צדקה – Charity / Righteousness The first Chief Rabbi of the Holy Land , Rav Kook , taught that the antidote to causeless hatred is causeless love . Having embraced Teshuvah and Tefillah with all of the selfimprovement that they require , we will have an instinctive and deeply rooted love for peace . But Tzedakah is the means by which we look beyond ourselves and turn that goodness into positive , meaningful action that will leave a lasting impact on the world around us .
“ Every one of us can increase the degree to which we give of ourselves to others ”
Every one of us can increase the degree to which we give of ourselves to others , whether as part of an organised charitable campaign or by investing our time and energy into kindness and generosity . There is no degree of evil that cannot be overcome and outshone by an equal and opposite desire to do good for others .
Embracing more fully these three fundamental principles of Jewish life as a response to global hatred and violence might feel inadequate , even naïve . But , I believe that we are far more likely to change the world through positive action and leading by example , than simply by standing in judgement .
May this coming year be one filled with only peace and reconciliation among the peoples of the world . Valerie and I extend to you all our very best wishes for a happy and fulfilling New Year .
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis September 2016 • Tishrei 5777 ■
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