Shofar

“Although the sounding of the shofar on Rosh Hashanah is a Divine decree, nevertheless we can discern a purpose in doing so. It is as if it tells us…” (Rambam hilchot teshuva 3:4). But what does the shofar “tell” us? Reflecting on this question by means of examining the shofar’s various halachic aspects – its sounds, structure, shape and context – can lead not only to a better understanding of the mitzvah of shofar, but to a greater understanding and appreciation of Rosh Hashanah itself.