Tashlich

Q: Why do we go to a small pond or lake on the first day of Rosh Hashanah to offer prayers and throw breadcrumbs?

A: Rosh Hashanah begins the process of forgiveness and reconciliation. From the first day of a holy day until Yom Kippur, we count 10 days as we attempt to come to terms with our sins.  The Maharal, Rabbi Yehudah Leib of Prague, teaches that one way to commence the process of feeling and becoming contrite is found in the book of Micah. Forgiveness will come, says the prophet, “When you cast your sins into the depths of the ocean.” (7:19)

There is a beautiful Midrash which tells of Abraham on his way to fulfilling God’s command to sacrifice Isaac is made to pass through a raging river.  Waters swirling madly about him, Abraham prays to God, “Save me dear Lord me from these waters which threaten my life!” (Psalms 69:2)  The Almighty heard the words of His messenger and saved Abraham from certain death.

The waters in the Midrash symbolize the underworld of darkness and sin.  The waves tug at our legs but, with the help of God, we will survive.  Thus we go to a pond or lake or river with flowing waters each year for Tashlich, where we throw our crumbs into the waters.  We empty our pockets to begin the process of renewal.