Ben Adam (Mortal One)
Ben Adam opens the collection of Selichot poems in the Sephardic nusach, which are recited early in the morning during the month of Elul. The words of Ben Adam are the first to be recited during the period of Selichot--calling us to wake up, both physically and spiritually. The poem begins with a call to human worshipers (ben adam), and concludes with a call to God (Adonai), demonstrating the distance that exists between our earthly world and the divine presence. The poet urges us to repent, reflect and plea--actions that will bring us closer to God. The poet also portrays a compassionate, forgiving God, who comes closer to us as we pray and awaken spiritually.
