Rosh Chodesh Elul Torah Essay

Rosh Chodesh Elul marks the beginning of an important month in the Jewish calendar, leading up to the Yamim Noraim. There are multiple additions to our daily tefillot now that the month of Elul has begun.

Sephardim will begin saying Selichot, the shofar will be blown each day and we will begin to recite Tehillim, perek 27 twice a day.

What makes this perek of Tehillim so fitting for the beginning of the season of teshuva? When we look at the words of the perek, there is no obvious mention of teshuva. So, let’s look at a few of the pesukim and see if we can find the message and its connection to Elul.

The perek begins with the words

This pasuk focuses on the idea of Hashem’s divine protection and serves as a reminder that during Elul, as we approach Hashem in teshuva, we find comfort and strength in our relationship with Him. This pasuk not only identifies Hashem as our light, but also reminds us that He is our salvation and stronghold. Elul can be a daunting time as we confront our shortcomings and vulnerabilities. However, just as the moon is at its darkest on Rosh Chodesh, we can find comfort in the promise that Hashem’s light can pierce through the darkest moments of our lives, guiding us on the path of teshuva and renewal.

A little farther on, in pasuk 4, David says:

Here, David beautifully expresses our devotion and deep longing to dwell in the presence of Hashem. It aligns with the themes of Rosh Chodesh Elul and the approaching High Holy Days, as it highlights the yearning for a closer connection with Hashem. The word “dwell” in this context represents a deep and continuous relationship. It goes beyond simply visiting a physical temple or attending religious services occasionally. Instead, it conveys a desire to reside permanently in the presence of Hashem and to make Him a constant and integral part of our lives. David’s aspiration to live in the house of Hashem “all the days of my life” implies an enduring commitment to maintaining that relationship. As we embark on this spiritual journey of self-reflection during Elul, we are encouraged to seek a lasting bond with Hashem, not just for the High Holy Days, but throughout the remainder of the year and our lives.

In pasuk 8, David implores,

On Rosh Chodesh Elul, we begin on a journey of seeking closeness to Hashem, just as David HaMelech sought His presence. We actively search our hearts and minds for areas in need of improvement, striving to draw nearer to Hashem.

The perek concludes with passuk yud daled –

David instructs us to be strong and to let our hearts be courageous. This reminds us that throughout the teshuva process, we should not lose faith. We must believe that a connection with Hashem is reachable and that this time period, leading up to and including the Yamim Noraim, presents an opportunity for spiritual growth and forgiveness

Although there are no explicit mentions of teshuva in this perek, we can see many themes that are important for this time of year. By thinking daily about our need to seek out Hashem, finding light in darkness, and holding on to our faith, we can make this month transformative, renewing our commitment to Hashem and fostering a deeper connection to Him.

Wishing everyone a Chodesh Tov and an uplifting month.