08/13/2026
Elul, the last month before the new year, is dedicated to honestly taking stock of the past year before rushing toward the new year we want to create.
Sometimes introspection can bring up fear and self-judgment. However, the mystics teach us that G-d's 13 attributes of mercy are radiating throughout this month. This expression of Hashem's compassion for us gives us the safety to look at our own choices and shortcomings with compassion, understanding the deep wounds that motivated us to act that way.
The Hebrew letter correlated with this month is Yud, the tiny point from which all other letters emerge, representing the pure, essential goodness and untapped potential within every person.
When we speak of doing Teshuvah in the month of Elul, it’s not about guilty repentance, but returning to our pure, untouched essential goodness.
The energy of Virgo, Elul’s zodiac sign, reinforces this invitation to return to the place within us that remains untouched by outside influences and, like the maiden, is perfectly pure.
This Elul, remember that Hashem is closer than ever. He knows the deepest workings of our hearts and meets us with compassion for the ways we have shown up. When we allow ourselves to look honestly at our past, without judgment, we can take responsibility for where we fell short, understand what lies beneath it, and use that awareness to create meaningful change.
Chodesh Tov YJP🫶
