By Meira Berkowitz, Features Editor
As the Yamim Noraim (high holidays) approach, teshuva can often feel like another item on a seasonal checklist. Rosh Hashana arrives, Yom Kippur follows, and there is an expectation to reflect, regret and somehow emerge as a better person. However, meaningful change rarely happens overnight.
In the most recent installment of “Teshuva Talks,” a recent online shiur series, Yeshiva University’s Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz addressed the process of teshuva and the challenge of turning inspiration into lasting change. Rather than viewing teshuva as a “lightning bolt moment,” Rabbi Lebowitz emphasized that growth happens gradually through consistency, self-awareness and a willingness to keep moving forward.
For students entering the Yamim Noraim, that perspective can shift the way teshuva is approached. Instead of trying to completely reinvent oneself in a few short days, manageable and sustainable commitments can form habits and patterns that can carry the inspiration of Elul into the rest of the year. Rabbi Lebowitz suggested taking on two small commitments for the 40 days leading up to Yom Kippur, and choosing one at the conclusion of Neilah to bring into the new year. The focus isn’t on making the most ambitious commitment, but on choosing one that can be maintained over time.
That emphasis on consistency also applies to the feeling of spiritual monotony that can accompany everyday religious life. Rabbi Lebowitz said, “When a person feels there is a certain sense of monotony, or lack of inspiration and energy, there are different kinds of people. Some people get energy through consistency. Some people get energy through a change of scenery.” Spiritual growth looks different for everyone, and Elul is a crucial opportunity to realign with the relationships and Torah learning that fuel one’s motivation and religious life.
However, Teshuva is not only about adding new practices. It also requires confronting the areas where a person knows they are falling short. That process can be uncomfortable, particularly because it requires a person to look honestly at their actions, relationships and responsibilities throughout the year.
The imagery of Rosh Hashanah adds another dimension to that self-reflection. “When we imagine passing before Hashem as sheep one by one, we must also remember the times we remained loyal and caring as members of the flock,” Rabbi Lebowitz said. The image of each person passing individually before Hashem emphasizes the personal nature of judgement. No one can rely entirely on the actions or identity of the larger community; each person must consider their own choices and the way they use their time, abilities and relationships.
At the same time, being a member of Hashem’s flock reminds us that teshuva is not only an individual process. A person is judged not just by their private spiritual life, but also by the way they contributed to the people around them. Being part of a flock suggests responsibility, loyalty and care. Teshuva requires the examination of both sides — the private decisions that shaped one’s relationship with Hashem and the communal responsibilities that shaped one’s relationship with others.
Ultimately, Rabbi Lebowitz’s insights on Teshuva leave room for imperfection. A person does not have to feel that they have already reached where they want to be in order to begin changing. In fact, recognizing that gap can itself be meaningful. “Identifying with the feeling of I’m not where I need to be is a huge part of growth. Feeling the want to want is the first step, lean into that.” Rabbi Lebowitz said. Even when a person is not yet ready to make a major transformation, recognizing the desire to grow is already a step towards change.
Teshuva does not necessarily begin with knowing exactly how to change. Sometimes it begins simply with recognizing the desire to grow. From there, small commitments, consistency and continued effort can turn that desire into a lasting impact. May we all merit to enter the Yamim Noraim with the courage to look inward, the strength to take small but meaningful steps and the Siyata diShmaya (help of God) to turn those steps into lasting growth.