We are entering the powerful and spiritually enriching month of Elul.

The month of Elul, leading up to Rosh Hashana, our Jewish New Year, is traditionally known as a time when God is particularly close to His people, or as it says in Chassidut, “The King is in the Field.” This is not just a metaphor; it is an invitation to each of us to step forward, to come closer, and to rekindle our relationship with the Divine.

What does this mean on a practical level?

In a world where many people feel lost, confused, and isolated—without our rock and our anchor—Elul offers us the opportunity to rediscover our spiritual compass. By turning towards Hashem and inviting His presence into our lives, we allow Him to be our Rock, our Shelter, our Comfort, our Guide, and our Compass, helping us regain direction and support in our lives.

This is the month when Hashem is so close, so available to every individual. It is a time to connect to Him, not just in a superficial sense, but in a way that transforms our very being. As the Lubavitcher Rebbe teaches:

“In the month of Elul, every Jew has the capacity to connect with Hashem in a way that transcends all barriers. This is a time to awaken the heart and draw close with sincerity.”

This closeness is not automatic; it requires effort on our part. We must take steps to open our hearts and minds to the Divine presence. Perhaps we can make a commitment to take ten minutes of quiet time every day. During those moments, we can contemplate Hashem’s deep love for us and reflect on how He eagerly awaits our prayers, even when our lives feel clouded and uncertain. These moments of reflection can become the foundation upon which we build a more profound relationship with God.

As we engage in this spiritual work, it is also essential to examine our behaviors and traits that might be preventing us from achieving closeness to Him. The Baal Shem Tov taught that in the month of Elul, every Jew should take stock of their soul and make an honest assessment of their spiritual state. We can ask Hashem to help us transcend our limitations, sharing our struggles with Him while envisioning a future where we overcome them. This process is not about self-criticism, but about self-improvement and growth.

Elul is also a time of awe and, understandably, some fear, because as the day of judgment approaches, we wonder about the year ahead: Who will live, who will die? Who will be blessed, who will know sorrow? Who will experience joy and success, and who will have to struggle? These questions remind us of the seriousness of the time, but they also inspire us to take action, to pray, to give charity, and to do good deeds that can help shape a positive future.

“The paradox of Elul is that it is both a time of closeness and awe—a time when we are small in our humility but great in our connection to Hashem.” — The Lubavitcher Rebbe

True humility is feeling small before Hashem’s greatness, yet simultaneously feeling immense because of our deep connection to Him. This duality—this balance between awe and love—is what makes Elul such a unique and powerful time.

Only Hashem knows what will be. Only He knows what’s best for each of us. But as it says: “Through our prayers, repentance, and acts of charity and kindness, we can help turn bitter decrees into good ones.” This is not just a hopeful saying; it is a spiritual truth. When we align our actions with God’s will, we become partners in the process of creation, helping to bring more light and goodness into the world.

Another way we can ensure a good judgment is by showing mercy to and judging others favorably. If we don’t get angry or judge others harshly, we pray that Hashem will deal with us likewise. The way we treat others is a reflection of how we see ourselves and our relationship with God. By cultivating compassion and understanding, we not only improve our relationships with others but also deepen our connection with Hashem.

A Powerful Practice from the Arizal

According to the teachings of the Arizal, it is considered a powerful spiritual practice (segula) to recite Tehillim 27 (כ׳ז) twice daily starting from Rosh Chodesh Elul (1 Elul) up to Simchat Torah. It can be said once in the morning and once at mincha, or once in the morning and once at arvit, or simply twice consecutively.

Tehillim 27 mentions Hashem’s name—the name used when referring to Hashem as being merciful (י-ה-ו-ה, numerical value 26)—thirteen times. By saying it twice, Hashem’s name is repeated a total of 26 times. We are requesting Hashem’s mercy 26 times (the numerical value equivalent to Hashem’s name for mercy) during the most auspicious month to ask for Hashem’s compassion.

This simple practice can draw down an abundance of blessings for the new year and give each of us the confidence to believe that Hashem is always with us. From the moment we put our trust in Him, all gates open. As the Rebbe once remarked:

“When a Jew turns to Hashem with sincerity, even the gates of Heaven cannot remain closed.”

May this month bring you abundant blessings and success in every way!