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Besides for its obvious proximity to the High Holidays is there something special about Elul that elicits so many unique observances?
Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (originator of the Chabad Chassidic Philosophy) gave an explanation that bears analysis1 . He said that, "During the Month of Elul it is as though the King - meaning G-d - is in the field." He further explained by giving an analogy. During the course of a year the king is practically sequestered in his palace. Only those with specific missions or those considered greatly important are granted access to the king's presence. Those who are merely laypeople do not have the opportunity of seeing the king, much less conversing with the king.
During the Month of Elul it is as though the King - G-d - is in the field...When in the field the king greets each of his subjects with a smiling face, and he wants to hear their concerns and comments
Those conditions do not apply in the field. On the contrary, the king made his way to the field because he wanted to reassert his relationship with his subjects on their level. By doing this he reinforces the notion that he is their king. As is understood there is no king without a people. So during that month the greatness of the people is the point that is emphasized. When in the field the king greets each of his subjects with a smiling face, and he wants to hear their concerns and comments. Again, that is the very purpose of his visit.
The question really then is not, "Is the King available to us?" The question instead is, "Are we looking for Him?"
Once we perceive our loving and caring King one cannot help but be profoundly moved by the experience. Our love and devotion of the King grows. Our awe of the King's power is enhanced. Our lives become impacted and we anticipate the looming High Holidays with a combination of excitement and energy.
This is not to say that G-d is not available during the rest of the year. It is a cornerstone of Jewish belief that G-d is always available. However, during the course of the year we must approach G-d in His palace. We must do so at specific intervals and under exacting standards. On the other hand, during Elul the level of G-d's availability skyrockets, as G-d comes to us, as it were.
It is time to "seize the moment" in our spiritual pursuit of G-d. On second thought, this time of year it is G-d Who "pursues" us, so we should let Him "catch us." What does allowing G-d to capture us entail? It means that we simply open our eyes and hearts and return G-d's gaze as He smiles at us. It is time for all of us to be inspired!
Footnotes
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Miscellaneous » The Jewish CalendarHolidays » Rosh Hashanah » A Month of Preparation
