Akeidat Yitzchak

The Torah reading for Rosh Hashanah begins with Sarah being remembered on this day, as she was blessed with a son, Yitzchak, at the age of ninety.

The reading for the second day is the story of the binding of Yitzchak, known as “Akeidat Yitzchak.” This incident is seen as one of the greatest acts of Messirut Nefesh, giving over one’s soul, in the service of Hashem.

There were numerous Jews who gave their lives sanctifying the Name of G-d, but this incident stands out as being unique.

It is likely that the reason for this is that the request made of Hashem, was absolutely contrary to what Avraham was promised.

He was told in no uncertain terms that Yitzchak was the son chosen by G-d, to carry on the teachings of his father. Now he was being told to offer this same son as an offering.

Despite the obvious contradiction, Avraham did not question Hashem in any way. The same could be said for Yitzchak, who was thirty-seven years old at the time.

It was this absolute faith and trust in Hashem that stood out and made this episode so special.
We are to learn from this and recognize that the demands in being a Jew are not always that logical or simple. Our faith demands that we do what is expected of us whether we understand it or not.

There is a prayer that we say every morning after reading the story of the Akeida. We ask Hashem to treat us as Avraham did. Just as he conquered his feelings of compassion towards his son, in order to fulfill His will, so should Hashem conquer His anger towards us, and treat us beyond the letter of the law with kindness and mercy.

This was what made Akeidat Yitzchak so special. And may our daily prayer after the Akeida be fulfilled as we enter the new year. Shana Tova.