Repentance for Sin
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Question
Hello, To perform teshuva for a sin, a person must confess, express regret, and make a resolution for the future. And all this should be spoken aloud. What is the depth of regret required? Does one need to reach tears and crying? Also, how long should such repentance for a sin take, considering that: 1. A person may have several sins a day 2. It may be difficult to achieve a deep level of regret 3. So that the teshuva does not ultimately weaken the person.
Answer
Hello
Rabbeinu Yonah says 'For every level of teshuva, there is forgiveness', meaning any level of teshuva is beneficial.
However, he specifies that one who grieves over the loss of a single coin is not comparable to one who has lost all his wealth and possessions.
According to the depth of regret and sorrow, the more the teshuva is accepted.
Of course, the regret that should be for a serious sin is not comparable to the sorrow for less investment in mitzvot.
The more a person invests in understanding the depth of the flaw caused by the sin, the easier it is for him to regret the sin.
It is clear that one who sees that engaging in sins weakens him should perform basic teshuva, and over time he can add more and more to his teshuva.