The Hebrew word cheit, often translated as "sin," is from a root meaning "to miss the mark," as in archery or stone-throwing. Many commentators have drawn important implications from the etymology of cheit: As with a stone thrower or archer, our intent is to aim true and to do the right thing; wrongdoing does not cause an ineradicable strain. With practice and attention, we can improve our aim and do better in the future.
(35) Let sinners cease out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless the LORD, O my soul. Hallelujah.
- Does this psalm's attitude towards sinning complement or conflict with your understanding of Yom Kippur?
- Why do people sin? Are some people inherently evil, or wicked?
- Can you simply erase sinners or wicked people? Why or why not?
- What are some reasons you can think of that "good" people could be lead into sinning?
There were some lawless men[6] living in the neighbourhood of R. Meir, and they used to vex him sorely. Once R. Meir prayed that they should die. His wife, Beruriah[7], exclaimed, "What thinkest thou? Is it because it is written, 'Let sinners cease out of the earth'? But has the text hoteim? It is written hata'im[1]. Glance also at the end of the verse, 'And let the wicked be no more' — i.e. when 'sins will cease,' then 'the wicked will be no more.' Rather shouldest thou pray that they repent and they be no more wicked." R. Meir offered prayer on their behalf and they repented.
- Are you surprised by Rabbi Meir's first instincts (to pray the lawless men die)?
- How does his wife, Beruriah, translate the previous text, Psalm 104:35?
- What does this text teach us about who has authority to interpret and reinterpret our texts and laws and morality?
Teshuvah literally means "return" and is the word used to describe the concept of repentance in Judaism.
Return Again, Shlomo Carlebach
Return again, return again,
Return to the land of your soul.
Return to who you are,
Return to what you are,
Return to where you are,
Born and reborn again.