The Maharal on Aggadot Concerning Revelation, Justice & Mercy

Was it Tishrei or Nissan that the world was created, and so what? In the Gemara in Rosh Hashanah we are taught that there was a dispute regarding when the world was created. The Maharal teaches that there is much that stands behind these positions, Tishrei represents intellect, and Nissan reflects heart. Tonight, we will ponder the nature of thought as opposed to the nature of life and energy, and how that reflects this awesome season.

More of Maharal’s Musings on the head, the heart, the Avot and Tishrei and Nissan: Last week the Maharal introduced what was behind the dispute on whether the world was created in Tishrei or Nissan. We plumbed the dichotomy between beginning with the heart (Nissan) or the mind (Tishrei), the power of being the first (Nissan),and the distinction of being the seventh (Tishrei. The discussion continues to bring other midrashim that indicate that this argument is not merely about dates, but the transcendent nature of heart vs. mind.

How are the years of the righteous unique?  What does it mean to have a perfect year from day to day, as opposed to years of long life? What does such a year look like, and how is it different from someone else’s year? Into this and other questions, the Maharal delves as only he can.

The Mishnah teaches that there are 4 Rosh Hashanahs…Some are called “regalim”, but Rosh Hashanah is not in this category. Why? Why are we judged on produce, but not on cattle or sheep? How are the “regalim” connected to those things that are judged, and what is their connection to each other? Who knows? The Maharal knows! See you tonight!