The Unetanah Tokef, "We shall ascribe holiness to this day," prayer is arguably the most well-known prayer centering on human mortality. It is the liturgical climax of the High Holy Days. More than any other prayer, its haunting melody and vivid text cuts to the fragility and unpredictability of life, exposing the white elephant in the sanctuary, the question that taunts and torments our quivering hearts: who will live and who will die?
During the month of Elul, with learning and reflection, we prepare for the Days of Awe and the personal transformation they inspire. This year, join Rabbi Adina Lewittes for an immersive 3-part exploration of the Mahzor’s gripping centerpiece informed by rabbinic commentary, medieval poetry, psychoanalytic insight, and contemporary wisdom.