New Year Requests

This year parsha Hazinu is read on Shabbos Shuva. In it you have the song of Hazinu which is a teaching, a rebuke, a warning, a promise and a prophecy wrapped in one. 

We lived with this song all week, starting last Shabbos, the 25th Elul, the first day of creation, by mincha. Ending on Rosh Hashanah, the day man was created. 

It all fits nicely together. Rebuke all week followed by a promise of redemption on Rosh Hashanah. 

The same heaven and earth created at this time is called to be witness for all eternity. That the words of Hazinu be fulfilled.

What is the connection between Rosh Hashanah and Hazinu?

In addition, on Rosh Hashanah we ask for our needs. Seems shallow that on such a holy day we preoccupied with our mundane needs. Why is this day set aside for asking?

In Hazinu the purpose of creation is clearly defined. Our mission to do HaShem's will, by which,through our effort, we develop this world into a dwelling place for HaShem, where He is revealed to all, realized at the time of the redemption. 

Rosh Hashanah, the day Adam was created, the mission of man began. Every year we go to shul pledging to continue and finish the mission. That's why we ask for our needs on Rosh Hashanah, we are asking for what we need to accomplish our mission. So don't be shy, ask well. 

May we see our mission fulfilled and witness the final redemption this year. The sooner the better. 

Have a happy and sweet new year!