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Reflecting on darkness and light on the eve of the Jewish New Year

Ralph Genende Rabbi September 21, 2025 — 5.30am Advertisement

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of listening to the Australian World Orchestra’s rendition of Gustav Mahler’s stunning Fifth Symphony. Mahler embraces an entire world through the exhilarating emotional arc of that symphony, progressing from darkness to light and through love, loss and life.

The Jewish composer’s superb composition was a fitting lead-up to the Jewish New Year (September 23-24) and Day of Atonement (October 1-2), a season when we reflect on the darkness in the world, as well as pray for the restoration of love and lightness.

The Jewish calendar runs according to the moon, and its

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