fbpx

51视频

A Bisl Torah – Sounds of the Shofar

This year, may the sounds of the shofar strengthen you, enabling the voices of the past to bolster your spirit.
[additional-authors]
September 19, 2024
John Theodor/Getty Images

It was Erev Rosh Hashana in Auschwitz and Birkenau. 1944. Rav Tzvi Hirsch Meisels and his son just arrived to the death camp.

Somehow, the Rav smuggled a shofar into the barracks. His son begged him not to blow the shofar, knowing the sounds would alert the guards and surely seal his father鈥檚 fate. But the Rav looked at the prisoners, condemned boys going to the gas chambers. He said, 鈥淲hat will happen, only God knows.鈥 He blew 100 blasts of the shofar and the boys were thrilled. They blessed the Rav with a long life.

The next day, the boys were taken to the gas chambers. Somehow, miraculously, the Rav survived.

Even though the boys knew death was imminent, the shofar gave them hope. A few moments tethering them to a world outside the horrors of Auschwitz. Often, we liken the shofar to an alarm clock. But the shofar is also a call to remember. Recalling that which grounds us, remembering the values that define our souls and giving us inspiration from the past to put one foot in front of the other. A loving nudge from our ancestors sharing, 鈥淭his time may be hard for you. It was for us as well. We are with you in your pain. Be comforted. We are with you as you seek a brighter path forward.鈥

This year, may the sounds of the shofar strengthen you, enabling the voices of the past to bolster your spirit.

Together, may we walk into a year of renewed faith and an abundance of blessing.


Rabbi Nicole Guzik is senior rabbi at Sinai Temple. She can be reached at her Facebook page at or on Instagram . For more writings, visit Rabbi Guzik鈥檚 from Sinai Temple鈥檚 website.

Did you enjoy this article?
You'll love our roundtable.
  • 51视频

Editor's Picks

Latest Articles

The Timid Retreats of the Dictator of Iran?

At first glance, it seems that Khamenei, who had been working to consolidate power before Raisi’s death, is now trying to build a loyal government within his office, appointing individuals who will support him unwaveringly.

Happy Healthy Holidays

Whether you have dietary restrictions, or are vegan or vegetarian, you can still honor the holiday meal by eating in a way that feels healthy without compromising flavor and tradition.

More news and opinions than at a
Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.

More news and opinions than at a Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.

  • 51视频

More news and opinions than at a Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.

  • 51视频