Thread by @JYuter

1. A very quick message before I sign off for #RoshHashanah

According to rabbinic tradition, the High Holidays are an auspicious time for introspection and repentance. One of the major themes of Rosh Hashana is the recognition of God as King and the ultimate judge.

2. I think a reason why this is emphasized at the beginning of the High Holidays is that it instills a sense of moral humility

3. If we think of ourselves as the arbiters of morality, we can justify virtually any action and frame any sin as being righteous such that we don't even feel we *need* to repent for any action.

4. Furthermore, we give ourselves the authority to judge others for their moral transgressions with whatever harshness we deem appropriate (usually while preaching tolerance and compassion when it suits us)

5. Social media is built on enraging people's moral indignations. Rosh Hashana is an opportunity to take a step back and recognize that we are not the real judges and that maybe we ought to extend to others the compassion which we would like for ourselves.

6. You'll find a range of various traditions emphasizing the process, but virtually all agree the ultimate goal of the season is a genuine commitment to do better, with this commitment demonstrated w/actions.

7. For whatever stage or situation in which you find yourself, my wish for everyone this #RoshHashanah is to try to minimize our judgmental voices in favor of emphasizing what we *can* do to be better.

#ShanaTovah