The Torah, in the book of Bamidbar, Chapter 29 relates that the first day of the seventh month is a day that, "You will not do any work, a day of sounding of the ram's horn." The verse indicates that Rosh Hashana is only one day. Knowing that we celebrate two days of Rosh Hashana, we must understand how this developed.The beginning of a new month was determined by the Great Court in Jerusalem. Two witnesses would come and testify that they saw the new moon. After verifying the information, the Court would declare the month sanctified and send forth messengers throughout the entire land. This is to ensure that everyone celebrates the Jewish holidays at the right time. For example, in the month of Nissan word would reach the whole land of Israel by the fifteenth to celebrate Passover.Establishing Rosh Hashana, on the first day of the Jewish month of Tishrei, presented a difficulty. It would be impossible to inform the entire land when the new month and year commenced. Therefore, out of doubt, Rosh Hashana was celebrated for two days even in the land of Israel. After the destruction of the Temple and the establishment of the calendar, the Rabbis declared that Rosh Hashana would always be observed for two days.According to the Oral Tradition, the day of Rosh Hashana is the day of judgment. Based on our spiritual merits, G-d determines what we will receive the following year. This concept occupies our thought, throughout the prayers of this holy day.The question is: What do we think on day two? Hasn't the verdict been determined already?Commentators deal with this issue in the following way: A person can be judged based on his actions. If he is righteous, he will be granted life and physical blessing. If G-d forbid he is acting improperly, G-d punishes. However, an individual who may not be deserving may receive for the sake of the community.For instance: A person lives a life that is not fully dedicated to G-d and moral values. On judgment day the Al-mighty determines that his earnings will not cover his expenses in the following year. (G-d takes into account that he is making Visa and MasterCard happy). However, this individual is committed to communal matters, and agonizing about his financial situation would detract from his involvement. When G-d accounts for the effect on the community, His verdict will be that this person should be blessed with abundance, and live in comfort.Appreciating this concept, may lend understanding to the judgment of the second day. It is a reckoning of one's impact on others.
