The Real Beginning

Free translation of a discourse by
the Lubavitcher Rebbe,
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson
Rosh Hashanah 5733 - 1972

by Rabbi David Rothschild

Introduction

Although Rosh Hashanah is the beginning of the new year, the world was actually created six days earlier. Rosh Hashanah, though, is Adam's - the first man - birthday.

What is so significant about that? Why does such a solemn and awe inspiring day - Judgment Day - occur on someone's birthday?

In "The Real Beginning", the Lubavitcher Rebbe considers the inner teachings that Adam's birthday conveys. His discourse is based on a key phrase from the Rosh Hashanah liturgy, "This is the day which is the beginning of Your acts." Each word of this seemingly minor sentence has universal significance.

Adam was the first one to introduce Divine revelation into creation. As a result, every living creature recognized, felt, and submitted themselves to G-d's Kingship. How does this relate to our lives?

In Genesis is stated, "G-d took Adam and placed him in the Garden of Eden, to work it and to guard it." What lessens can we derive from his ancient toils? And how does this relate to Rosh Hashanah?

Chassidism explains that very reason the world was created is the Messianic Era and the Resurrection of the Dead. What does that connote? How is this teaching relevant to our everyday existence?

Did you know that virtually every mitzvah we do creates its own Paradise? Where is Paradise? Is it worth the effort?

The Talmud relates that even a maidservant pointed her finger at the Splitting of the Sea and exclaimed, "This is my G-d." Does the Splitting of the Sea relate to Rosh Hashanah? Isn't that a different holiday?
To understand the inner significance of Rosh Hashanah, click onto "The Real Beginning".

Full text is 2300 words approx.