Renewal, and the concept of a clean slate are one of the core concepts of judaism. It doesn't work as easily as just asking a priest for forgivenesses. There's Yom Kippur, which is the holiest day of the year, dedicated to praying for forgiveness and asking God for a good year. At the same time, one must seek forgiveness from those who they harmed.
In the Talmud, Rabbi Akiva is 40 years old before he begins to study the Torah, further reinforcing the idea that it's not too late to reinvent yourself.
Herman's actions are a twisted version of renewal. He tried to start a new life in New York, but could not get away from his past, Tamara, or the trauma of the holocaust, through Masha. In the end, Herman disappears. Perhaps he began a new life. It's open ended.
There is a strong connection between rebirth and self reflection. Yom Kippur is known as The Day of Judgement, referring to the concept that one's fate for the year is decided on that day. The end of the day is a happy moment. The slate is wiped clean, and a new year awaits.
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