Reflection and Renewal: The High Holidays and A Call for Unity

Andrea Mujica October 3, 2024
Reed Barkowitz: “Now, perhaps more than ever, we need to acknowledge our shared responsibility to support one another and foster an environment of understanding and kindness.”
A Shofar
A Shofar is the most primitive wind instrument made of a ram’s horn. Jewish law requires that it to be blown 30 times each day of Rosh Hashanah (which was observed this year from sundown on Oct. 2 until sundown on Oct 4). However, by custom it usually is blown 100 to 101 times on each day.

As the Jewish New Year begins, we are given the opportunity to reflect on the past and look toward the future with renewed hope.

This season, the High Holidays align not only with the start of a new academic year but also with the solemn anniversary of October 7 — a day that marks pain and loss for many. In this convergence, we find a unique chance to come together, to heal and to embrace unity in the face of adversity.

The High Holidays and October 7

Rosh Hashanah is a time of reflection, a time to contemplate the year behind us and the year to come. We celebrate the creation of the world, and with it, the possibility of new beginnings for ourselves and our communities.

On Yom Kippur, we seek forgiveness and reconciliation, not only with others but also within ourselves. Together, these holidays remind us of the importance of community, of the power of standing together through joy, hardship and renewal.

The Kol Nidre, a prayer or ancient formula that is sung in Jewish synagogues at the beginning of the service on the eve of Yom Kippur, is contained in The Mahzor or High Holiday Prayer Book. Yom Kippur begins this year at sundown on Friday, Oct. 11, and ends at sundown on Saturday, Oct. 12. 

As we begin this academic year, our campus community is invited to carry these values forward. Whether you celebrate these holidays or not, the messages of reflection, peace and unity are universal. Now, perhaps more than ever, we need to acknowledge our shared responsibility to support one another and foster an environment of understanding and kindness. 

October 7 is a day that will be etched in our collective memory. As we honor those affected by violence and tragedy, we also recommit ourselves to building a future where peace and safety prevail. By coming together to commemorate and reflect, we not only mourn but also reaffirm our hope and dedication to a better tomorrow.

In the spirit of unity and healing, we invite the entire campus community to join us for:

• October 7 Vigil on Monday, Oct. 7, at 4 p.m. at the Jeffrey and Diane Ginsburg Hillel House. This vigil will be a space for reflection and solidarity, as we remember the lives lost and come together in a shared commitment to peace and unity.

The Jeffrey and Diane Ginsburg Hillel House.

As we navigate the coming days, may we all find strength in community, comfort in shared values and hope in the promise of the year ahead.

Wishing you all a sweet, peaceful and reflective new year.
L’Shana Tova, may your new year be sweet. 

– Reed Barkowitz
Hillel Program Director