Parshas Vayeilech / Shabbat Shuva

This Shabbat is known as Shabbat Shuva or, according to some, Shabbat Teshuvah. It takes its name from the period we are currently in, between Rosh Hashona and Yom Kippur, known as the Ten Days of Teshuvah. Teshuvah is often incorrectly translated as penitence or repentance which, whilst giving some idea of what Teshuvah is about, tends to conjure up a very stark image of a 'sinner' who needs to 'repent' etc.

Judaism looks at it differently. The literal translation of Teshuvah is 'return'. This is because Judaism teaches us that humanity is intrinsically good and that if we should happen to stray from the path once in a while, this does not make us wicked or evil. It is simply a question of acknowledging our failings, gathering our bearings and returning to the right path, from whence we came. Teshuvah is the process of returning to the ideal which we originally and intrinsically possess. A much more positive way of looking at things than is suggested by the word 'penitence'.

This period, between Rosh Hashona (the New Year) and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) is a time for introspection, for reflection on the past and for taking on good resolutions for the future, to improve and to grow over the new year which has just started on Rosh Hashona, to return to our roots, to G- d and to ourselves.

This idea also fits in with this week's Torah portion, Vayeilech, describing the last days of Moses' life. The title of each Torah portion highlights an important concept which is taught in that particular portion. Vayeilech literally means 'and Moses went' from the root of the word Halicha, meaning 'going' in Hebrew. 'Halicha' also means the idea of being on the move, of not being stagnant. By subjecting ourselves to an honest reckoning, using this time for introspection and self-assessment and drawing the necessary conclusions, we are able to move on and to grow as people, rather than remaining stuck where we are. We have the capability to 'go', to reach very high moral and spiritual levels. We cannot remain standing still, we must be 'mehalchim' - 'goers', movers and shakers, people who grow, who make a difference to what is going on.

May we all be granted health, happiness and success, may each of us grow and develop, both as individuals and as a community, and may each of us, together with all the world, be judged favourably on Yom Kippur and blessed with long life and happiness.

Shabbat Shalom