RAV KOOK ON Elul/Nitzavim: Teshuvah for the Generation of Rebirth

“For some time I have been struggling with an inner conflict, and a mighty force impels me to speak about teshuvah [penitence]. All my thoughts are focused on this topic. Teshuvah holds a primary place in Torah and in life. All the hopes of the individual and of society depend on it.” So begins Rav Kook’s introduction to Orot HaTeshuvah (‘Lights of Penitence'), perhaps his most popular work, first published in 1925. The compact book was beloved by its author, and Rav Kook himself would study its teachings during the month of Elul after morning prayers. One student reported hearing Rav Kook say, ‘I worked extensively on Orot HaTeshuvah. Whoever studies it properly will find light in every word.’ He also declared: Orot HaTeshuvah should be be studied endlessly.’ What is so special about the book’s outlook on teshuvah? Teshuvah — a Return to Life