Statement on Observance of the Jewish High Holy Days
(September 25, 1984)
The year 5745 of the Jewish calendar is about to be
ushered in with the soul-stirring blast of the shofar. And while the
ram's horn is traditionally meant to summon Jews to prayer and reflection,
its message echoes beyond the walls of Jewish places of worship and
affects others as well.
Nancy and I hear its call and are reminded by it that so much in our
American heritage is drawn from the religious values enunciated during
the Jewish High Holy Days. The liturgy of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
emphasizes both the moral obligations men have to their Maker and the
ethical responsibilities we owe to our fellows. Fundamentally, America
stands for the same principles. Indeed, these values have been derived
in large part from the Jewish tradition which is thereby inextricably
linked to our American spiritual heritage.
The ties between the Jewish and American traditions run deep and are
related in no small way to the special relationship that exists between
the United States and Israel -- a relationship based on the common spiritual
and ethical values encompassed in the shofar's call to prayer.
At this time of introspection and renewal, we extend our very best
wishes that your prayers will be fulfilled. We share your hopes that
during the coming year world understanding and peace will triumph over
prejudice and violence so that we may say with the Prophet Isaiah, ``Nation
shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall men learn war
any more.''
Ronald
Reagan
Sources: Public Papers of the President |