The Power of Being Alone: A Rosh Hashana Message

Rabbi Silber's Rosh Hashana message explores the Gemara's teaching that on Rosh Hashana every person passes before Hashem "k'vnei maron" — one at a time — and reframes that as an intimate gift rather than a fearful judgment. He draws out the difference between being alone and being lonely, showing that Rosh Hashana is the one time each year we get Hashem's undivided attention, like a child eager to tell a parent every detail of their day. Speaking to a community facing COVID quarantines, he urges anyone spending Rosh Hashana away from shul not to see it as a diminished Yom Tov, but as an unmatched opportunity to be truly alone with Hashem.

• Rosh Hashana's "one at a time" judgment isn't a threat — it's the gift of Hashem's undivided attention.
• There is a real difference between being alone and being lonely; you can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely.
• Constant digital connection can prevent you from ever truly being alone with your own thoughts and with Hashem.
• Use Rosh Hashana to actually talk to Hashem about your year in detail, the way a child recounts their day to a parent.
• Circumstances that keep you away from shul can become an unexpected opportunity for deeper, more personal prayer.