In just a few weeks, Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Sept. 22nd. As we all know, it is a time of inner work, purification and forgiveness that lasts for ten days though Yom Kippur. This work is so important that preparation actually begins 30 days beforehand during the Hebrew month of Elul, which is known as the Month of Love. The Hebrew letters are an acronym for the famous phrase, "I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine" taken from Song of Solomon, 6:3 in the Bible. This phrase is commonly used at weddings but it is really about the Love that G-d has for all of us, that we are in sacred partnership, co-creators.

As we go through self evaluation during the month of Elul which began Aug. 23rd at sundown, we do so with this Divine Love. It helps us discern what we would like to keep in our lives and what we would like to discard.  The daily process of inner reflection which is to be done without guilt is meant to also help us become more aware of our emotions and perceptions, allowing us to eventually have control over them rather than having the emotions and perceptions control us.

One of the best ways to go through this process is with kavanah which means, intention. It is one of our most powerful practices. Even before praying we set the intention that our prayers are connecting us to G-d. Therefore, with kavanah, set the intention that insights will come with inner reflection that will help you grow spiritually. Cantor Lee keeps a journal to help with this process.  If you would like to follow the practice of inner reflection during Elul, please let us know know how it goes! 

May we all be blessed with awareness, discernment, peace and joy during this most special time!

Love, Rabbi David and Cantor Lee

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