As the earth tilts and daylight shortens, the natural world begins its great migrations. Humpback whales travel from the icy Alaskan coast to the warm waters of Hawaii, while hundreds of millions of birds pause in Israel’s Hula Valley on their journey from Europe to Africa. These ancient patterns of movement echo a spiritual migration that is unfolding among Jewish families worldwide.
A Seasonal Call to Return
For Jews of every background—whether Ashkenazi or Mizrachi, Orthodox or Reform—the arrival of Rosh Hashanah signals a collective return to sacred spaces. Congregations across the globe are filling synagogues, community centers and homes with prayer, song and the familiar rhythms of the High Holy Days. Rabbi Daniel Schaefer, spiritual leader of Congregation Mishkan Israel, writes that this gathering is “a reminder that we are one people, kept in sync by the rhythm of our tradition.”
The Meaning of Teshuvah
Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the ten‑day period of teshuvah, often translated as repentance. Its Hebrew root, shuv, means to turn or return—not to reverse the past, but to change direction toward a better self. Rabbi Kalonymous Kalman Shapira of the Warsaw Ghetto described teshuvah as a creative act: “We return to who we are meant to be, but have not yet become. We return to growth and possibility that has lain dormant within us and not yet flourished.”
Connecting Nature and Faith
The column draws a vivid parallel between animal migration and the Jewish journey. Just as humpback mothers guide their calves across thousands of miles, Jewish parents and community leaders guide younger generations through the rituals of prayer, reflection and charitable deeds. The seasonal return of wildlife reminds believers that returning to one’s roots is a natural, life‑affirming process.
Family, Community and the Divine
Even those who have never stepped inside a synagogue may feel the pull of this season. The author notes that the call to return can be heard by anyone seeking a deeper relationship with the Divine, offering an opportunity for personal growth, health, sweetness and happiness in the new year.
Local Perspective
While the column speaks to a global audience, its publication in the New Haven Independent highlights the vibrant Jewish community of New Haven, Connecticut. Local families are gathering for services at Congregation Mishkan Israel and other houses of worship, reinforcing the city’s long‑standing tradition of religious diversity and communal support.
Looking Forward
As the academic year begins and many experience a season of return and renewal, the wisdom of Jewish tradition offers hope for growth. May this new year bring health, sweetness and happiness to all who embrace the call to return.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
