In another month the High Holy Days begin for the Jewish people. It is a time of inner work, purification and forgiveness that lasts for ten days. 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 the Divine has for all of us, that we are in sacred partnership.
As we go through self evaluation during the month of Elul, 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 God. Therefore, with kavanah, set the intention that insights will come with inner reflection that will help you grow spiritually. I like to keep a journal to help with this process.
The month of Love which begins August 23rd at sundown is for everyone of all religions and cultures! If you would like to follow the practice of inner reflection during Elul, please let me know how it goes!
May we all be blessed with awareness, discernment, peace and joy during this most special time!
Love, Lee
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