Dear TEE community,

Next Sunday night marks the beginning of the Jewish month of Elul. Traditionally, Elul is a time of reflection and preparation for the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. It is a month of spiritual introspection, inviting us to assess our actions over the past year and seek to repair any harm we may have caused.

In contemporary practice, Elul emphasizes self-improvement and personal growth. There are numerous daily rituals to support this process. One is the custom of blowing the shofar each morning, symbolizing the call to awareness. It is also traditional to recite Psalm 27, which teaches that one who seeks God will have care and protection. Engaging in introspective activities, such as writing, being out in nature, or reading inspirational literature, is another way of honoring this unique time.

A foundational historical practice of this season is cheshbon ha-nefesh, an “accounting of the self.” Modern versions are found in “life reviews” and other processes that encourage us to consider our actions in light of our goals and priorities. Often this is applied to various aspects of one’s life, such as work, relationships, health, etc. Using the Jewish mystical framework of the Four Worlds encourages us to examine our lives on the levels of the physical, the emotional, the intellectual, and the spiritual.This proactive approach fosters a mindset of positivity and growth as we set intentions for the coming year.

Elul traditions are also rooted in community. Like many congregations, TEE offers special classes during the month. We also hold a Selichot service before Rosh Hashanah to enhance our preparation.

However we seek to do so, Elul is meant to be a time to heal ourselves and the world around us through reflection and reaching out to one another, incorporating both the Jewish values of tikkun ha-nefesh, repair of the self, and tikkun olam, repair of the world. This month is not merely a time of solemnity but also an opportunity for renewal and hope.

May it be so for all of us.

Rabbi Drorah Setel