Rabbi David Leibl: Rosh Hashanah Prayers Demand Global Responsibility

Rabbi David Leibl, president of Achvat Torah, emphasized that the prayers recited during Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, extend beyond personal introspection to encompass a broader sense of responsibility for the Jewish people, the land of Israel, and the entire world. In an interview with Kikar HaShabbat, Leibl explained that while individuals naturally focus on their personal circumstances during this period, the liturgy calls for a wider perspective.

The prayers include petitions for the righteous, for the entire nation of Israel, and for the joy of the land and its cities. This, Leibl stated, necessitates a consciousness of the collective and an examination of one's role and responsibility within the broader community. He asserted that no individual is too insignificant to impact their surroundings and community.

Furthermore, Leibl highlighted the prayer for the entire world, which asks for God's awe to be felt by all His creations. He explained that this petition signifies a shared responsibility for the world's proper functioning, drawing a parallel to Abraham, who, despite his unique relationship with God, acted as a "father of many nations" and spread ethical teachings globally.

Leibl concluded that the essence of Rosh Hashanah, often referred to as "the birthday of the world," is to recognize that God's sovereignty encompasses all of creation, not just individuals or the Jewish people. This perspective elevates the observance of the holiday, imbuing it with a profound and expansive spiritual dimension.