
Month of Elul
The month of Elul is characterized, spiritually, as the month in which the Jewish people renews its "marriage" vows with our Creator.
Elul is known as “the month of the bride”. The metaphor for the bride and groom is derived from “The Song of Songs”, which explores the relationship between G-d (the groom) and the Jewish people (the bride). Elul embodies a Divine love, and its name symbolizes the dynamic of that love and marriage commitment.
Shoftim: A True Relationship
The Jewish month of Elul teaches an important lesson in relationships; one must create total unity whilst retaining their individuality.
Read MoreKi Teitzei: Religion and Dysfunctionality
Our calling is to marginalize (and possibly eliminate) so-called “religious” behavior that feeds the stereotype of close-minded, unevolved and condescending religiosity. And more importantly, reintroduce the alternative – faith and religion that allows man to actualize and shine in his full glory.
Read MoreKi Teitzei: Childhood Innocence and Blood
Beheading of Steven Sotloff: At times like this don’t you just want to curl back up into your fetal-like childhood innocence? An essay on staying innocent in a psychotic world.
Read MoreA Haven In Time
The twenty-nine days of Elul offer an isle in time, a sanctum for introspection and self-assessment, for atonement and rehabilitation.
Read MoreThe Month of the Bride
The month of Elul is a month in which the love between the divine Groom and His bride Israel is at its height.
Read MoreThe King in the Field
Elul, the last month of the year, resembles the “holy” portions of the calendar. Yet, as a month in which we work it seemingly presents a paradox…
Read MoreRe’eh: From Jerusalem to New York – Diary
Written from New York, this reflective personal story captures Jerusalem in all its complexity: A city laden with history and ‘quintessential realities’.
Read MoreNitzavim-Vayeilech: We Don’t Control the Weather
End of the year thoughts about leaving behind our comfort zones and approaching the new year with a renewed approach.
Read MoreKi Tovo: Tremors
As we prepare for Rosh Hashanah we reflect on what the world has been and imagine into what the new century may challenge us with…
Read MoreShoftim: Elul Whispers
Elul is the month of love and compassion. As we enter the month we ask how we understand this in light of the reality around us filled with terror and war?
Read MoreShoftim: Abandonment & Reconciliation
Following the destruction of the Temple and the ‘Three Weeks of Affliction,’ come the ‘Seven Weeks of Comfort,’ in which the people are consoled and comforted for their great losses.
Read MoreVayelech: A Year In Perspective
As we enter the new year, this essay reflects on the past year, the lessons learned, challenges encountered and meaning made…
Read MoreRe’eh: Our Secret Asset
Each day, week and month is defined by its unique energy. By appreciating the personality of each time segment, time becomes our greatest asset; a silent but powerful partner in life’s journey.
Read MoreThe Seven Weeks of Comfort
Learn about the Seven Weeks of Comfort that follow the Three Weeks of Affliction. In these weeks we are comforted over the destruction and loss of the Holy Temple, and they prepare us for rebirth and renewal in the upcoming New Year.
Read MoreThe Blast of the Shofar
A short explanation of the spiritual meaning of blowing the Shofar, this is an excerpt from best-selling 60 Days by Rabbi Simon Jacobson.
Read MoreAre You Concerned About the Future?
Spiritual perspective: The economy is just the latest of challenges facing us all. Many people have been laid off from work, many are suffering deep financial losses.
Read MoreAre You Concerned About the Future?
Spiritual perspective: The economy is just the latest of challenges facing us all. Many people have been laid off from work, many are suffering deep financial losses.
Read More60 Days Daily Audio Journey
Follow along with the Meaningful Life Center’s NEW daily audio series by Rabbi Simon Jacobson: 60 Day Journey Toward Hope, Renewal, and Joy.
Read MoreA True Relationship
In this month of Elul we have the opportunity to create, mend and renew relationships. May we use the month well, and may we all be blessed with experiencing “I am to my beloved and my beloved to me.”
Read MoreThe King is Paying a Visit
Elul, the last Hebrew month of the year, is a time where the King himself is in the field.
Read MoreKi Tovo: To You My Heart Speaks
The month of Elul is a month of love and compassion. In this time how does prayer help us to face and respond to pain and suffering?
Read MoreDo You Know Your Inner Flower?
Dig into the innermost depths of your soul to find the love that you deserve. Discover the secret to finding true and lasting love.
Read MoreDo You Know How to Sing?
Learn how to access your inner song and discover how melody, the language of your soul, can carry you to new and exciting places.
Read MoreLove is in the Air: Elul in Jerusalem
Learn how the Hebrew month of Elul teaches us how to start anew and open up a new chapter of love in our lives.
Read MoreAre you Battle-Weary? Transcending Life’s Struggles
The secret to winning your battles lies not in your fighting skills and strategies, but in your attitude and mindset even before you engage in battle.
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