Mishneh Torah, Shofar, Sukkah and Lulav 1-2

Hook

Ever wonder why we blow a ram's horn on Rosh HaShanah? It’s not just a loud noise—it’s an ancient "wake-up call" designed to stir the soul.

Context

• Who: Maimonides (Rambam), a legendary 12th-century Jewish scholar.
• When: Written in the 1100s as a clear summary of Jewish law.
• Where: Mishneh Torah, the most organized code of Jewish practice.
• Key Term: Mitzvah (plural mitzvot) – A commandment from God, often translated as a "good deed."

Text Snapshot

"It is a positive commandment from the Torah to hear the sounding of the shofar on Rosh HaShanah... The shofar... is a bent ram's horn. All shofarot other than that of a ram are unacceptable." — Mishneh Torah, Shofar, Sukkah and Lulav 1:1 (Read it here)

Close Reading

Insight 1: It’s about listening, not blowing

Rambam emphasizes that the mitzvah is to hear the sound, not necessarily to blow the horn yourself. This turns the experience into an act of receiving. You are invited to be present and let the sound wash over you.

Insight 2: The "Bent" Heart

Why a bent horn? Our sages note that a bent, curved shape reminds us to "bend" our proud hearts in prayer. It’s a physical symbol of humility—a nudge to stop being rigid and start being open to change.

Apply It

This week, find a moment of silence (at least 60 seconds). Close your eyes, focus on a sound in your environment, and practice "listening" with your whole body, not just your ears. It’s a quick mental reset for staying present.

Chevruta Mini

1. Why do you think the Torah focuses on hearing a sound rather than just reading a message?
2. If the shofar is meant to "bend" our hearts, what is one area of life where you’d like to be a little more flexible?

Takeaway

The shofar is a reminder that changing our hearts starts with the simple act of truly listening.