A new year begins. We are so used to this word, new, but the Torah asks us to stop and contemplate. To truly renew ourselves. What actually becomes new, in our world and in ourselves, at this time of year? In Jewish sources, we find three things that the sages ask us to contemplate each day as if they were new:
Torah: One of the most popular words in the book of Deuteronomy, which we read throughout the month of Elul, is "today." Again and again, as we read about entering the Land of Israel, we are asked to relate to past events as if they are actually happening to us this very morning, and not three thousand years ago in the desert. "On this day the Lord your G-d commands you" (Deut. 26:16). Rashi comments: "Each day, let them (the commandments) be brand new as if you had just been commanded to perform them."
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