Nitzavim-Vayeilech

“Choosing Life”
(updated and revised from Nitzavim-Vayeilech 5763-2003)

In parashat Nitzavim, the Al-mighty begs his children to "choose life." Judaism believes that "healthy guilt" allows us to override our defense mechanisms and helps us acknowledge the changes that we need to make in order to improve our lives, to perfect our situation and to choose life.

“An Exclusive Covenant with an Inclusive Philosophy”
(Revised and updated from Nitzavim-Vayeilech 5760-2000

In parashat Nitzavim, Moses, on the last day of his life, gathers all the Jewish people, from the lowliest to the most exalted, to bring them into the covenant. Just as the people did in the time of Moses, so do we too, come together in our synagogues during the Ten Days of Penitence, with all our Jewish brothers and sisters, those who are worthy, and those who appear to be unworthy. At this singular moment, we stand together as one Jewish people, past, present and future, seeking G-d’s mercy and forgiveness.

“Inspiring the Next Generation”

The ritual of הַקְהֵל--“Hak’hel,” which takes place in Jerusalem on the festival of Sukkot every seven years, is an unprecedented national educational celebration that is meant to inspire future generations of Jews to live committed Jewish lives.