« When one merits to reach the Kisse haKavod (Throne of Glory), one can then truly fulfill Rosh Hashanah, the Day of Judgment — that is, to judge all of humanity with mercy. » (Likutey Halakhot, Rabbi Nathan of Breslov)
Rabbi Nathan speaks here of a spiritual elevation that few ever reach: attaining the Kisse haKavod, the Throne of Glory. This is not a physical place, but a level of holiness accessible only to true Tzaddikim — those whose souls have been refined to such a degree that their vision of the world is illuminated by Divine light.
When a person reaches that level, he can truly fulfill the essence of Rosh Hashanah — not merely as an external ceremony, but as a deep inner participation in the Divine judgment, which flows from compassion. For from the Throne of Glory, no harshness descends — only truth, softened by love.
For us, this teaches a precious lesson: if we have not yet reached such a vision, then we are in no position to judge others harshly. It is better to hold back, to pray, to plead on another’s behalf — just as the Tzaddikim do from their lofty place, joined to the merciful gaze of the Creator.
