Parshas Bereishis (Machar Chodesh) 5787
בראשית ברא אלקים את השמים ואת הארץ (א-א)
Hashem created the world with Middas HaDin, represented by the name "אלקים". Yet later, the posuk states, "ביום עשות ה' אלקים ארץ ושמים", introducing the name of Middas HaRachamim. Rashi explains that although the world was originally meant to be created with strict judgment, Hashem, כביכול, “changed His mind” and incorporated mercy, allowing Rachamim to take precedence. This makes it possible for a person to have time to repent, rather than being punished immediately upon transgressing Hashem’s will. But this raises an obvious question. The Almighty is perfect and, unlike a human being, does not make mistakes or reconsider decisions. How then, can we understand the concept that Hashem “changed His mind”?
The Sefas Emes points out that Rashi does not say that Middas Hadin was replaced with Rachamim. Rather, the two became partners. Hashem’s thought and ultimate standard is governed by Din, while His actions toward man are guided with Rachamim. This means, there is a fundamental difference between a person’s Ratzon and actual action. Hashem knew man would have a yetzer hara and would inevitably stumble. Rachamim creates an opportunity for a person to make mistakes, repent, and try again. However, this does not mean the standard itself is lowered. A person’s thoughts, desires, and aspirations must be completely aligned with the Ribono Shel Olam’s. Hashem’s Din determines where a person is supposed to be, while His Rachamim gives the opportunity to get there. As long as our Ratzon is to do good, we will not be immediately judged for our physical incapability to get there. In the Friday night Kiddush we mention Shabbos as a day of remembering Maaseh Bireishis, Yetzias Mitzrayim, and that we are the Chosen People. Then we add "ושבת קדשך באהבה וברצון הנחלתנו". Explains the Sefas Emes, Shabbos is a day of depth. To elevate ourselves, strengthen our emuna, and closeness to Hashem. And even if we don’t feel or connect to that, it is simply Shabbos. It’s very existence and our knowing what it is meant to be affects us.
As we start a new year with new feelings of commitment, we know we may falter, but our ratzon must remain fixed.