"Religious" the word is taboo in some circles and, at the very least, intimidating to most people. It tends to conjure up images of "holier than thou" people who spend their days wrapped in prayer and piety while looking down on the rest of the "heathen" society. How, then, should we consider this time on introspection just before Rosh Hashanah, our New Year? What should we aspire to if being "religious" seems entirely out of reach and frankly less than desirable?
The answer lies in this week's Torah portion Ki Tavo. There, we learn about the Mitzvah Bikurim; a farmer working in the field would bring their first fruits to the Temple in appreciation for G-d's blessing and offer them as a gift to the Kohen. This Mitzvah was a pivotal moment in the life of a Biblical Jew, and yet the Mitzvah centered around their work in the field/farm/orchard. It was there the Torah says they felt G-d's blessing more than anywhere else; for that reason, these fruits symbolized their gratitude for G-d's presence in their lives. The lesson is a fundamental truth of Jewish life; being religious is less about spending all day in a synagogue and more about feeling G-d's presence throughout your life, especially when you are immersed in this material physical world, such as a farmer working the land.
This same principle can be seen in the parable used to highlight the importance of our current Hebrew month, Elul, which proceeds Rosh Hashanah. The first Chabad Rebbe explained this particular time of the year with the following allegory: Imagine a King who lives in a palace and usually can only be seen by a small group of elite citizens or after a lengthy approval process. However, this month before the New Year, the king leaves his palace and comes out to meet the farmers in the field, joyfully greeting each one. This fantastic example helps us understand that G-d is more present and accessible this month than the rest of the year and can be found in the field, the most physical elements of our world.
Being something different from who you are is a terrifying idea; no wonder people are so terrified of becoming "religious." But the truth is G-d's coming out to greet you as you are; all you need to do is welcome Hashem's presence in your life. As we prepare to welcome a new year, let's consider what a new version of ourselves might look like. Don't get hung up on labels, "religious" or any other. Instead, focus on allowing Hashem's presence in your life, and as you begin to live with that divine energy, you will naturally start to ask the question, what does G-d want me to do in this moment? When you recognize Hashem loves you and wants to connect with you, you'll become the true definition of "religious," a conduit of divine light illuminating our world.
Mission: Use this special moment in time to welcome G-d into your life; Hashem is more accessible now and will gladly meet you exactly where and as you are.