Parashat Ha’azinu 5785

by Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields

Ozen (Alef, zayin, nun), which means ear, is the root of Ha’azinu, the name of the Torah reading which will be read this coming Shabbat, Shabbat Shuvah. We must truly use our ears this week, at Rosh Hashanah services, as we listen to the sound of the shofar, and also listen to the beautiful and meaningful words found in our Machzor, the High Holiday prayer book, and listen to the words of the sermons which will be delivered by your Rabbi at Rosh Hashanah services. We must also truly use our ears to listen to the many people we will see at the services. To truly listen with our ears, we must also listen with our mind and heart, to hear what is being said to us, and what is being said between the words. Since last Rosh Hashanah, so much has happened in the Jewish community. This week when we attend Rosh Hashanah services and Shabbat Shuvah services, may we all truly listen, not only with our ears, but our hearts, and minds as well, as together as a community we all process what Am Yisrael, the people of Israel, as well as the State of Israel have endured since last Rosh Hashanah. Am Yisrael Chai! The People of Israel Live!