The Essence of Yom Kippur
Let us delve into the significance of Yom Kippur and explore the essence of this sacred day. Every Jew harbors a connection to Yom Kippur. The Sefarim refer to the ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur as the "Aseres Yemei Teshuvah," calling them "Yemei HaRachamim veHaRatzon" (Days of Mercy and Favor). Indeed, rachamim is a central theme of the Yamim Noraim. To deepen our understanding of this period, let us examine the concept of rachamim and the significance of these holy days.
A Yom Kippur Jew
We begin with the words of the Ramban in his commentary on the Torah, where he articulates the essence of these days with remarkable clarity: Rosh Hashanah represents "din b'rachamim" (judgment tempered with mercy), while Yom Kippur embodies "rachamim b'din" (mercy within judgment). The depth of this distinction is profound, and many commentators explore its meaning extensively. In keeping with our method of seeking a heartfelt understanding, we will aim to explain this distinction in a manner that speaks directly to the heart, guiding us in our preparation for the avodah of Yom Kippur.
As noted, Jews worldwide—even those distant from religious observance—feel connected to Yom Kippur. The term "a Yom Kippur Jew" is often used with a negative connotation, implying someone whose sole connection to Judaism is Yom Kippur. However, we prefer to focus on the positive. This expression reflects the deep bond that Jews feel with this holy day, demonstrating that Yom Kippur and the Jewish soul are intertwined.
"Avi" – My Father, A Symbol of Mercy
To further our understanding of the rachamim of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, let us first consider Rosh Hashanah. A central theme of Rosh Hashanah is the Akeidas Yitzchak. The Midrash offers a fascinating insight into this episode, highlighting how Yitzchak repeatedly calls out to his father, Avraham, with the word "Avi!"—"my father!" The Midrash questions why Yitzchak needed to address Avraham as his father, something seemingly obvious from the context. It answers that Yitzchak sought to arouse his father's compassion through this plea, seeking to "touch a chord" of rachamim within him.
The Akeida and the Expression of Love
The question arises: What was Yitzchak trying to achieve by appealing to his father's mercy? It is unlikely that he was attempting to dissuade Avraham from fulfilling the divine command, as it would be inconceivable for Avraham to defy Hashem's direct order. Yitzchak undoubtedly understood this as well. So what was his intention?
The Brisker Rav offers a profound insight. When Hashem commanded Avraham to offer Yitzchak as a korban, He specifically stated: "kach na et bincha… asher ahavta"—"take your son… whom you love." Hashem wanted Avraham to sacrifice Yitzchak, his beloved son, with full awareness of his love for him. The Brisker Rav explains that Yitzchak knew Avraham would have to suppress his natural paternal love to fulfill this command. However, Yitzchak wanted Avraham to feel that love intensely, ensuring that the act fully reflects the divine command to offer "the son whom you love." By calling out "Avi!," Yitzchak sought to evoke Avraham’s fatherly love, thereby ensuring that the sacrifice would be performed with complete devotion and love.
A Deeper Understanding: Mercy for Future Generations
Perhaps we can offer an additional explanation, one that is both emotionally stirring and profound. Yitzchak’s intention in appealing to his f