When we were approaching the start of the current Jewish year 5780, who could have ever imagined we’d be where we are today? The social distancing, mask-wearing, fear, economic woes, and of course, isolation and loneliness we’ve experienced due to Coronavirus were beyond our wildest dreams. And yet, here we are.

With 5781 only days away, it’s easy to imagine a much better year ahead.

Always a popular selection this time of year, the song “BaShana HaBa’ah” takes on a whole new meaning in 2020. In this video, Shiri Maimon expresses our hopes and dreams for a new year as no one else can. You’ve known this song your whole life…but you may never think of it quite the same way again.

Shiri writes:

5780 was not a good year (to say the least).
We learned in our flesh new words like quarantine, global pandemic, and economic crisis. The rift in Israeli society has deepened, the discourse has become more violent than ever and the fear of the unknown is gnawing at us all.
But even in the midst of all this evil, it is worth trying to seek the good – we are going through a lesson that will be remembered for generations.
And what it takes to open next year properly – is hope.
In the last few days I have found myself humming a song that has done good for the heart, and I felt it could totally reach you too.
Then you’ll see how good it will be next year. Amen.

Shiri Maimon – August 26, 2020

For Hebrew lyrics and translation, click here.