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Why does the Ramchal say we use the Hebrew word 'ach' (but/only) specifically for Rosh Hashanah preparations? The shiur develops the Ramchal's principle that shofar doesn't just request mercy—it compels justice itself to demand mercy by rectifying rebellion through accepting God's kingship and awakening Avrohom's merit. When we embody divine attributes of mercy and judgment, justice rules we deserve similar treatment.
This shiur continues the study of Derech Hashem (ה׳), focusing on the Ramchal's explanation of Rosh Hashanah and the shofar. Rabbi Zweig begins by noting a crucial word that appears in the Hebrew text but is lost in translation - 'ach' (but/only) - which indicates that unlike other holidays where we seek to maximize positive heavenly influences, on Rosh Hashanah we also work to temper certain negative influences, specifically the harsh judgment that naturally occurs on this day of universal judgment. The Ramchal teaches that on Rosh Hashanah, God judges and renews all creation, not just the Jewish people. During this process, Satan stands ready to prosecute mankind for their sins. The shofar serves two crucial functions: it invokes divine mercy and confounds Satan, preventing effective prosecution. This occurs through a profound principle that certain deeds cause justice itself to demand mercy rather than strict judgment.
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Derech Hashem - Ramchal, pages 345-351
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