There is a unique window of time known to Judaism that spans the 40-day period from the first day of the Hebrew month of Elul through Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Many practitioners of Judaism, as well as those who cling to the tzitzit fringe of Messiah Yeshua (Zechariah 8:23; Matthew 9:20-22), observe this time of personal introspection in preparation for that final week of Sukkot, or Tabernacles, which is said to be the marriage supper of the Lamb. This devotional contains reflections on the 48 Middot commonly meditated on during this time. The word middot/מידות is the plural form of the word middah/מידה. Middot are traits of moral character or virtues that are cultivated through personal growth and life’s natural maturation process. Like many Hebrew words, the word middot has a dualistic meaning. Along with referring to moral character, it also refers to measurements and values, like finding the measure of a person by evaluating their character and dedication to virtue. Some examples of the 48 middot are: ·Acceptance of suffering ·Balance ·Moderation ·Love ·Beauty ·Patience ·Humility ·Compassion ·Trust ·Mindful speech This book aims to inspire virtue and moral character through reflection, that as we approach the time of Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur, each page will be an internal and intimate fulfillment of the words of the prophet Isaiah repeated by John the Immerser: The voice of one who calls out, “Prepare the way of Adonai in the wilderness! Make a level highway in the desert for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low. The uneven shall be made level, and the rough places a plain. Adonai’s glory shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of HaShem has spoken it.” (Isaiah 40:3-5; Luke 3:4-5)
