After the Golden Calf disaster, Moshe sought to open a channel for the Jewish people to attain G‑d’s forgiveness. And indeed, G‑d revealed to Moshe the Thirteen Divine Attributes of Mercy, opening a pathway for all future generations to achieve atonement and healing:
And the L‑rd passed before him and proclaimed: “L‑rd, L‑rd, benevolent G‑d, Who is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving kindness and truth, preserving loving kindness for thousands etc etc . . .” (Exodus 34:6–7)
Why is “an abundance of truth” considered one of the attributes of mercy? Compassion, graciousness and kindness seem par for the course; but truth? Truth is a severe and honest judge, unwilling to overlook misdeeds and transgressions.
The reality, however, is that our shortcomings and failures are genuine and true only on the surfaces, only affecting an outer layer of self. The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy and the intertwined concept of teshuvah, properly translated as a “return” to one’s real self, are the road that reconnect us to our potential, our truest self. This potential always remains whole and unaffected by whatever temporary detour we may have taken.
When we invoke these attributes, we connect to our relationship that is rooted in a place much deeper within us than any failure can reach. As is known, even the greatest typhoon only roils the waters of the sea close to the surface, but the oceanic depths remain calm and untroubled. We have a place within our soul that is deeply connected to the Infinite, a place that the effects of our negative choices cannot reach.
We are fundamentally, essentially and truly G‑dly and positive. We can access that reality at any time we choose. And G‑d’s attribute of truth cuts away all the external layers and sees us for whom we truly are.
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