“Ain booni maasim,” “We have no merits.” Generally associated with gravity and brokenness, these painful words have classically been set to slow, almost mournful melodies. This special track offers a fresh approach. While there certainly remains a tinge of sadness and regret laced into the verse (“Ain booni, ain booni — oyyy!”), these emotions are reframed by the hope, positivity, and comfort present whenever a Jew opens up to Hashem with authenticity and sincerity. In this shining moment of transparency to our Source, we realize that while we may be devoid of merits, we are ever supported by Hashem, whose closeness is experienced most intensely by the brokenhearted. Set to a pressing beat that implies an almost urgent sense of determination, Ain Booni encapsulates a uniquely Jewish emotion, “Hazorim b’dimah, b’rinah” — a delicate blend of broken heartedness and elation. By ourselves, we couldn’t ever dream of making it. But with Hashem’s kindness supporting us along the way, there is nothing we can’t accomplish as we march together into the dawn of a brighter future!
