In the Hebrew calendar, Cheshvan stands alone as a month with no holidays. Known as “Mar Cheshvan,” meaning "Bitter Cheshvan," it’s a time that symbolizes self-driven spiritual growth rather than an influx of divine energy. After the celebrations and spiritual heights of Tishrei (with Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot), Cheshvan offers a space for inner work, testing our ability to generate light and strength independently.
Divine Name and the Permutation of Cheshvan
The structure of the Divine Name in Hebrew (Yud-Hei-Vav-Hei) hints at the distinct spiritual character of each month. In Cheshvan, the letters are arranged so that human initiative (represented by the letter Vav) precedes the divine spark (Yud). This arrangement suggests that our own efforts, rather than direct inspiration from above, drive spiritual growth in Cheshvan. Our personal "awakening from below" activates a deeper connection with the divine, which is only fully realized after we commit to the process of inner work.
Sweetening the Bitter
The Torah verse associated with Cheshvan includes the phrase “milk and honey,” hinting at the month’s potential for transformation. Honey, especially, has the ability to sweeten even the most bitter ingredients, just as our efforts can transform Cheshvan’s bitter character into a time of growth and sweetness. By engaging in self-reflection and personal growth, we can turn hardship into strength, bitterness into sweetness—moving from Mar (bitter) to Ram (elevated).
The Story of Noach and the Great Flood
The story of Noach (Noah), which we read during Cheshvan, is a metaphor for navigating internal and external storms. Just as Noach weathered the Flood, we too can use this month to build inner resilience and strength. Noach saved himself and his family by acting in ways that harmonized with divine will, though he is often seen as focusing mainly on personal survival. This month, we are encouraged to extend beyond our inner circles, embodying compassion for others and making personal sacrifices for a greater good.
The Letter Nun: Rising After Falling
The Hebrew letter associated with Cheshvan is Nun, which has two forms: the regular Nun, bent and leaning downward, and the Final Nun, upright and extended. This duality symbolizes our potential to rise after a fall. When we encounter obstacles or experience setbacks, we are challenged to stand up and become stronger through resilience. The upright Nunreminds us that even after falling, we can reach upward toward our goals, drawing strength from the depth of our own efforts.
The Power of Smell
Cheshvan’s corresponding sense is smell, the only sense that remained unaffected by the Eitz Hadas in Gan Eden. Smell connects us to our deeper, non-dualistic self, allowing us to tap into a primal sense of unity and wholeness. This month invites us to focus on the “scent” of our actions—on cultivating inner purity and alignment with our highest values, so that we can move forward with integrity.
Astrological Sign: Scorpio (Akrav)
Cheshvan’s zodiac sign is Scorpio (Akrav), a symbol of both danger and transformation. The venom of the scorpion reflects the month’s challenges, often stirring feelings of isolation, bitterness, or spiritual coldness. However, just as scorpions can regenerate, Cheshvan offers us the potential for renewal. We are encouraged to confront the “cold poison” of indifference and reignite our passion for growth, striving to warm our hearts and embrace purpose, even in the absence of external light.
Tribe of Menashe: The Strength of Letting Go
The tribe connected to Cheshvan is Menashe, whose name means “to forget.” Menashe symbolizes the importance of releasing past hardships and moving forward. In times of challenge, the ability to “forget” or let go of failures empowers us to rebuild with a fresh perspective. Embracing joy and resilience, even when memories of hardship linger, helps us live fully in the present and unlock new potential.
Building from Within
Cheshvan teaches us the importance of self-reliance and inner renewal. Without the support of holidays or spiritual festivals, we are invited to generate our own light and warmth. This month asks us to strengthen our foundation, rising after each fall and using each setback as a stepping stone toward resilience and deeper spiritual strength. Through our personal efforts, we align ourselves with the essence of Cheshvan: transforming bitterness into sweetness and cultivating the endurance to rise and stand tall.
