Higher Than the Righteous?
A Reflective Teshuvah Journey Inspired by Sha’ar HaTeshuvah, Chapter 8
Based on a class by Rabbi Zirkind on Duties of the Heart, March 5, 2025
Introduction
In Sha’ar HaTeshuvah, Chapter 8, Rabbeinu Bahya reveals an astonishing truth: a person who sincerely returns to Hashem after sinning may ascend to a level even greater than one who never sinned. The baal teshuvah (returnee) transforms their missteps into merits, their distance into longing, and their darkness into light. This worksheet is designed as a quiet space for reflection, helping you explore your own journey of return through the lens of Rabbeinu Bahya’s timeless teachings. You are invited to pause, reflect deeply, and answer with honesty, tenderness, and courage.
Awakening to Return
- What first stirred your heart to seek Hashem or a more truthful, holy life?
- Can you recall moments when you felt distant from Hashem? How did that distance shape your choices, your mood, or your inner world?
- Are there areas of your life right now where you feel a desire to return more fully?
- What does the word 'teshuvah' (return) personally mean to you?
Higher Than the Righteous?
- How has your journey humbled you?
- In what ways has awareness of your past mistakes increased your empathy for others?
- How do you imagine Hashem regards the person who strayed and found their way back?
- What strength or wisdom do you have now because of your experiences away from truth?
- Do you believe you could have reached your current understanding without having gone through those challenges?
Transforming the Past
- Are there parts of your past that now serve as sources of strength?
- How have your previous struggles made you more aware of Hashem’s presence or compassion?
- Which mitzvot or spiritual practices now feel richer or more meaningful to you because of your journey?
- How might your story give light, hope, or guidance to others who are still struggling?
- What personal qualities (patience, discipline, faith, etc.) did you develop through your return?
The Unique Avodah (Service) of the Baal Teshuvah
- How has your teshuvah journey changed the way you daven (pray)?
- Do you notice a difference in how you approach Torah learning, mitzvot, or acts of kindness now?
- What keeps you inspired to stay on this path of return?
- What moments in your day or week give you the greatest feeling of spiritual connection?
- How do you nurture your relationship with Hashem so that it continues to grow?
Commitment for the Future
- Are there any lingering habits or thought patterns you’re still working to release?
- What are two small, concrete steps you can take this week to strengthen your connection to Hashem?
- What boundaries or safeguards can you put in place to help protect your growth?
- Which mitzvah, learning project, or spiritual goal would you like to commit to in this next season of your life?
- What would it mean for you to forgive yourself and fully embrace the person you are becoming?
Closing Prayer
Master of the Universe,
You know the hidden places of my heart.
Thank You for the gift of teshuvah,
for allowing me to transform my mistakes into stepping stones.
Let my return be complete.
May my prayers rise sweetly to You.
Guide me to serve You with the passion of one who has been lost and found.
Help me to walk humbly, with clarity and strength,
and may my journey bring You joy.
Optional Closing Practices
- Read Tehillim (Psalm) 51 slowly, pausing at any verse that speaks to you.
- Write your own vidui (confession)—a private letter to Hashem acknowledging areas of struggle and your hopes for repair.
- Choose one act of kindness, charity, or mitzvah to do this week as an offering of return.