We are all familiar with the Chazal, “Tzedakah tatzil mi’moves – charity saves from death.” One may wonder why it doesn’t say that Shabbos saves from death, or tefillin.

An interesting answer is presented. Teshuvah is somewhat of an art. A person has to know how to do teshuvah. He has to feel sorry; he has to regret what he has done; he has to confess to his sins. There are specific components of teshuvah that the Rambam mentions, which are sometimes not easily attainable.

Tefillah is also an art. There are many who have difficulty praying; it is a challenge to have the proper kavanah, intentions and feelings. Many books have been written, and many lectures have been given, on how to pray properly.

One of the high points of the davening throughout the Yomim Noraim is when we reach the words “teshuvah, tefillah u’tzedakah maavirin es ro’a hagezeiroh – repentance, prayer and charity remove the evil of the decree!” We know that a person who is devout in conducting himself properly in these three areas will be judged for a good year. If we would recognize that the entire year ahead is riding upon the merit of these three deeds, we certainly would intensify our efforts.

The commentaries ask the following question: Why do we start with prayer, then repentance, and finally tzedakah?