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Slihat Hataim is a well-used phrase in
Israeli congregations. But what does it really mean? In the Tanach the
word originates from the Hebrew root of xlo
‘salah’. During this period forgiveness was only possible through
the well-established sacrificial system. The animal (normally a goat or
later poultry) was killed to atone (hrpk
- kapara) for the sins of the person. The animal was a substitute (Pylxt
- tahlif) for the sins committed and therefore had to die instead of the
person. The idea of atonement (twrpk
- kaparot) is still prevalent among Ultra-Orthodox Jews, especially at
around the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). Sadly, this ritual is not
sufficient to provide a complete forgiveness that is acceptable to God
(Hebrews 10:4). This means that all those human efforts are really in
vain. God is the only one who can actually forgive sins (Psalm 130:4).
One may ask – "Why?" What is so special about forgiveness?
The answer is that sin (ajx
- Het) merits punishment but forgiveness is astounding grace, so
astounding that, ultimately, only God can forgive. |
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This includes all sins, including sins committed between one person
and another. This is because all sins are considered to be disobedient
to God, as He has set the rules. With the death of Yeshua on the cross a
complete forgiveness of sins became possible to all men and women.
However, forgiveness is not automatic. In 2 Corinthians 7:10 we are told
that "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and
leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death". So we find
three very important stages: ‘Godly sorrow’ that really means a
deep, genuine and complete sorrow. This will lead the person to true
repentance (which is much more than just saying sorry) that will
manifest in turning away from the sins and completely denouncing them.
Finally, one has to trust in Yeshua’s sacrifice to get true pardon
(Acts 13:38, 26:18). Please note the important warning "…but
worldly sorrow brings death" that is, sorrow without true
repentance. Which really shows that one can be sorry but still not
receive forgiveness. Are you confident of your forgiveness? Yeshua is
our true kapara we can only receive Myajx
txylo
Slihat Hataim in His name.
Contact Gil at : GilsMiniUlpan@bmja.net
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