On Shabbat Teshuva, Rabbi Blachman explains that Torah is more than wisdom—it is our life. The problem that led to the Temple’s destruction wasn’t simply failing to say a blessing, but failing to truly value what Torah means.

As Yom Kippur approaches, we’re reminded that teshuva is about coming closer to Hashem and approaching Torah, prayer, and mitzvot with greater meaning and pride.

Rabbi Kenney explains that teshuva means returning to Hashem by honestly reflecting on where we’ve gone off course. The yetzer hara keeps us busy and distracted so we don’t stop to think. Shabbos Teshuva gives us the quiet and clarity to reflect, reset, and enter Yom Kippur with greater focus and sincerity.

This week is dedicated by the “Olami girls” in honor of Shana and all that she does for the OM community, and for a Refua Shlema for Esther bat Clara.

This week is dedicated by the “Olami girls” in honor of Shana and all that she does for the OM community, and for a Refua Shlema for Esther bat Clara

Rabbi Zev explores why Rambam places the obligation of teshuva and vidui on Yom Kippur in Hilchos Teshuva rather than the laws of Yom Kippur. He explains that while Yom Kippur is a uniquely intense day devoted entirely to Hashem, teshuva is not limited to one day—it applies all year. Yom Kippur’s spiritual intensity gives us the strength to maintain a connection to Hashem throughout the rest of the year.