סליחות - ערב ראש השנה נקרא "זכור ברית"

1. The Custom of Selichos on Erev Rosh Hashanah

We are up to Simen Ayin Daled Reish, 274, in Sharaloch and Mineg, discussing various traditions as they relate to Slichoys—the penitential prayers. The focus today is on the unique customs observed on Erev Rosh Hashanah. There is a particular tradition where this day is referred to as Zechor Bris—remember the covenant. Various verses in the liturgy speak about remembering the covenant, and it is even called the day of Zechor Bris.

2. The Absence of Zechor Bris Verses in Selichos

A question was raised to the Rebbe: If Erev Rosh Hashanah is called Zechor Bris, why do we not actually recite those specific verses in our Slichoys? It seems inconsistent that the day would be named after these verses, yet they are omitted from the prayers themselves. This apparent contradiction stands out in our tradition.

3. Unique Verses in Chabad Selichos Tradition

The Rebbe adds another question regarding a verse from Shmuel Beis, Perek Chaf-Daled, Pasuk Yud-Daled: Vayomer Dovid el Gad, tsar li meod—and David said to Gad, ‘I am greatly distressed.’ This verse is recited during our Slichoys, yet it does not appear in the standard texts upon which most of our Slichoys are based—namely, those from Lita, Raisen, and Zamut. These regions form the foundation for our general Slichoys tradition. The question arises: Why does our version differ by including this unique verse?

4. The Previous Rebbe’s Response and Upholding Tradition

The Rebbe explains that he had already posed these questions to his father-in-law, the previous Rebbe, at the time when he organized and arranged the order (Reshimmus) of the Slichoys. The previous Rebbe responded that despite these questions—which may indeed be valid—this is simply our custom (minhag). We continue to say both Zechor Bris and Vayomer Dovid, following established tradition even if there are open questions about their origins or consistency with other communities.

5. Additional Issues Deferred for Future Discussion

The Rebbe briefly mentions another issue regarding Tefas Gabel, but notes that since people are not listening or perhaps not ready for that discussion at this time, it will be addressed tomorrow.