What is the meaning of Selichot?
What is the meaning of Aseret Yemey Teshuvah?
The period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is called Aseret Yemey Teshuvah (עשרת ימי תשובה). During this period, we add extra prayers in the Tefillah and there are some extra songs that we say in the Selichot.
The meaning of Adon Haselichot
“Adon HaSelichot” piyut calls God by 22 different names, it is an alphabetic acrostic – the first line beginning with alef and the final line with tav. One for each Hebrew letter. From Adon HaSelichot (Master of forgiveness) representing the first letter, Alef; to Tamim Deot (Complete in knowledge) representing the last letter, Tav. The congregational response is : Chatanu lefanecha rachem ‘allenu, meaning: We have sinned before you, have mercy on us.
This lovely melody is a traditional Eastern melody from Jerusalem. It reminds me of how much I love and enjoy Sephardic culture and music. The tune is upbeat, yet emotional as well. I remember hearing my Grandpa, who was a cantor, singing “Adon Haselichot” as a little girl at our synagogue. It is such a comforting feeling to sing and play my favorite piyut “Adon Haselichot” ( Master of forgiveness ) at Temple Ramat Zion soulful event “Selichot under the stars” every year, led by Rav Ahud Sela and Hazzan Daniel Eli Friedman. 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Click to listen to our performance “Adon Haselichot”
May you and your loved ones have a blessed year!
Much love, Yakira
Adon Haselichot Transliteration
Poel yeshuot, TSofeh attidot Koreh hadorot, Rochev aravot Shomeatefillot, Tamim deot Chatanu lefanecha rachem ‘allenu (X2) This means: We have sinned before you, have mercy on us.
Adon Haselichot Translation
Master of forgiveness, Who examines hearts, Who reveals depths, Who speaks righteousness, We have sinned before you, have mercy on us.