We usually think about teshuva (repentance or return) as applying to individuals. Parshat Nitzavim-Vayelech teaches about an additional layer of teshuva, one which is perhaps more relevant at this time in Jewish history – national teshuva.  

The Ramban derives the mitzvah of teshuva from our parsha, traditionally read on the Shabbat before Rosh Hashana. The Hebrew root sh.u.v is repeated seven times in this section, characterizing teshuva as an ongoing process. It encompasses both the individual aspect: “You will return to your God…” and the national dimension: “God will return and gather you from all the nations…” What does national teshuva look like? Rav Kook teaches that the return of the Jewish people to the land of Israel is the foundation of the greatest teshuva. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, based on the Ramban, wrote about the dual nature of teshuva as a “double homecoming” – physically to Israel and spiritually to God. Perhaps there can be a notion of spiritual return to the Jewish people as well. Can we hear, in the words of Rabbi Sacks, “the divine call (‘Where are you?’) within the events that happen to us, whether individually as personal fate or collectively as Jewish history.” 

The prophet Hosea offers further insight into national teshuva when he calls on the people of Israel to return to God. The core of teshuva is through words: “Take words with you and return to God… Instead of bulls, we will pay [with offering of] our lips.”(14:3) National teshuva is achieved through words of prayer and in using language that fosters healing and repair. 

Especially this year, how can we respond to the call to national return in light of the parsha and Hosea’s message? How can each of us contribute to the strengthening and healing of Israel and the Jewish people? Shabbat Shalom & Shana Tova -Karen Miller Jackson