Rabbi Arnold S. Task, DD

“The High Holy Days come so early this year!” 

This has become one of the most frequently heard topics of conversation these days.  Well, please know that the Holidays come when they are supposed to come—on the first day of the Jewish month of Tishri.  The year that begins for us on Wednesday night, September 8, is 5771—marking the anniversary of the creation of the world, and the anniversary of the creation of human life, according to the Biblical chronology.

We know that the world is much older than 5771 years, but the system of the calendar has worked for us for more than 4000 years.  Unlike many other calendars, our Jewish method of counting the years does not begin with the birth or death of any ruler, nor does it begin with the celebration of any victory in war or any acquisition of territory, nor does it celebrate any especially Jewish event. (Adam and Eve were not Jewish; the life of Abraham and his encounter with God much later than Adam and Eve marks the beginning of the Jewish experience.) Rather, our calendar celebrates the creation of the world, the universe, and the beginning of life.

During the High Holy Day services this year I will be talking about the future:  the future of our Temple; the future of Reform Judaism; the future of Judaism for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren; and the future for Israel and the Jewish people.

Judy and I wish you and your families the very best for the New Year.  May it be a satisfying and fulfilling one for all of you.