In the month of Elul, we embark on a journey of self-reflection and renewal. Just as the earth readies itself for the harvest, we too must reap the fruits of our deeds. The Hebrew letters of “Elul” are said to embody the phrase “Ani L’dodi, V’dodi Li” – “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine” (Shir HaShirim 6:3). This phrase encapsulates a profound message, underlining that even in the face of challenges and hardships, we remain embraced by Hashem’s boundless love and guidance.
Rebbe Nachman of Breslov’s teaching, “The entire world is a narrow bridge, but the essence is not to fear at all,” adds a layer of resilience to our journey. Life’s trials might resemble crossing a precarious bridge, yet Rebbe Nachman urges us not to let fear dictate our path. Instead, we should advance with unwavering faith and determination, trusting in our capacity to surmount obstacles. Elul serves as a potent reminder of this profound truth – our strength transcends the constraints we perceive.
The shofar’s sound calls us to rouse our spirits and rectify our ways. Rabbi Kook once illuminated, “Even in the deepest darkness, a spark of light can illuminate the path ahead.” The shofar’s reverberations stir something profound within us, a reminder of our innate fortitude and resilience. Its echoes awaken us not only to confront our vulnerabilities and past missteps but also to acknowledge the potency within us to transcend challenges and adversities. Just as Elul’s presence precedes the advent of Rosh HaShanah, hope, too, can precede triumph.
List of People Who Need a r’fuah sh’leimah (a complete recovery)
Please recite Psalms 20, 30, 88, 121, and 130.
Binyamin Yaakov ben Ariel
Netaniel ben Bella Butio
Marik ben Raya
Shoshanah bas Puah
Shani Shoshana bas Lily Leah
Esther Hadassah bas Devorah
Mitali Naomi bas Gilah Farcha
Rivkah bas Shoshanah
Brachah bas Shoshanah
Chayah Sophia bas Fanya
Mazal bas Rachel
Diana bas Berta
Alvera bas Sarah
To add names of individuals who need a r’fuah sh’leimah to next week’s T’hilim column, please email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and complete the Google form.
