Yom Kippur Katan: The Power of Elul
Elul is a unique time in our calendar year. During this period in our history, Hashem forgave us for the Sin of the Golden Calf and accepted Moshe back to the heavens to prepare the second set of Luchot to be given to us on Yom Kippur. Tradition teaches that events in our nation's history repeat themselves, making this an auspicious time to focus on the power of teshuvah (repentance) and the closeness Hashem grants us during this month. It is at this time that Hashem is "in the field," referring to His availability and closeness to anyone who wants to draw near to Him and correct their ways.
Erev Rosh Chodesh, also known as Yom Kippur Katan, involves customs such as fasting, selichos, teshuvah, and other minhagim (customs).
Selichos, Seder Yom Kippur Katan, and Fasting:
Many have the custom of reciting Selichos and Seder Yom Kippur Katan. Those who recite Selichos on Erev Rosh Chodesh are traditionally meant to do so before Mincha. However, the custom evolved to include saying it after Mincha. A woman who recites this prayer at home or without a Minyan should omit the fourth paragraph, "Transgression of the entire community are confessed" (Igros Moshe).
Tefilah & Tehillim:
According to Kabbalah, Tehillim "protects a person, his household, and the whole generation from all sorts of physical and spiritual maladies. Slow recitation of King David's profound words affects an outpouring of Hashem's blessing and kindness."
From the first day of Rosh Chodesh Elul until and including Hoshana Rabbah, we recite Psalm 27 twice daily. The poskim advise that during the month of Elul, one should add various tefillos (prayers) and recite 10 chapters of Tehillim every day. This way, one can complete Sefer Tehillim twice before Rosh Hashanah. During Aseres Yemei Teshuvah, they recommend saying more chapters of Tehillim each day to finish the book a third time by Yom Kippur.
Communication:
This is an opportunity to pour out your heart to Hashem. Use your words and thoughts to express your desires and regrets. Begin to connect with Hashem on a level you personally have never achieved before.
Self-Improvement:
Now is the time to take account of where you were last year at this time and where you told yourself you would be. It is an excellent time to commit to yourself that this time will be different. This time you will be focused and accomplish the goals you set out to achieve.
Emunah, Bitachon, & Tefillah:
Evaluate where you are in Emunah (faith), Bitachon (trust), and Tefillah (prayer). Connect with the strength of the day in all your Tefilot, as well as your trust and belief that Hashem wants you to succeed and is just as invested in your success as you are. Make Him your partner in your journey, and draw your strength from His love, trust, and belief in you.
2
https://www.chabad.org/kabbalah/article_cdo/aid/379262/jewish/The-Elul-Process.htm
3 “Days of Majesty”
Rabbi Daniel Yaakov Travis pg 39
4 https://shulchanaruchharav.com/halacha/yom-kippur-katan-of-elul/
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