Happy New Year

 

The holy Apter Rav would bless at the beginning of the new year according to the Gentile calendar: “A good year to all the people of Israel.”

He explained this practice based on the verse, “Hashem will count in the register of nations.” When the nations mark their new year, that moment itself becomes a spiritually opportune time—capable of bringing about salvation  for the people of Israel.

The nations’ New Year represents a time of judgment. Since the spiritual vitality and influence of the nations ultimately derive from Israel, this period becomes especially suited for favorable decrees to be issued upon the Jewish people.

Moreover, this principle works in reverse as well. When the Holy One, blessed be He, observes the revelry of the nations during their holiday and contrasts it with the reverence and self-discipline of the Jews on Rosh Hashanah, even harsh decrees—Heaven forbid—can be transformed into blessings.

It is further emphasized that even matters which were not successfully rectified on Rosh Hashanah itself can be effected on this day. The contrast between the conduct of the nations and that of Israel has the power to overturn negative decrees and convert them into good.

— Netai Gavriel