1. Last Time for Kiddush Levona in Elul
Around the 14th of Elul falls the final opportunity to recite Kiddush Levona—the monthly blessing on the new moon. Our custom is to say it only after seven full days have passed from the molad, and the latest time to say it is half of the lunar month from the molad—fourteen days, eighteen hours and twenty-two minutes. Because that is reckoned from the molad and not from the calendar date, the cutoff falls on the night of the 14th of Elul in some years and on the 15th in others; one should check the molad for the particular year rather than rely on a fixed date.2. Beginning Study of Yom Tov Laws Thirty Days Prior
The 14th of Elul also marks thirty days before Sukkot. There is a longstanding tradition, brought in the Shulchan Aruch of the Alter Rebbe at the start of Hilchos Pesach, that one should begin studying and expounding upon the laws of each festival thirty days beforehand. Accordingly, study of Rosh Hashanah’s laws should begin on the first day of Elul, while study for Sukkot commences on the 14th of Elul. This ensures ample time to review all relevant halachos and prepare spiritually and practically for each holiday.3. Practical Preparation and Joy for Yom Tov
The Rebbe emphasizes that this thirty-day period is not only for academic study but also for practical preparation and fostering joy associated with each festival, especially Sukkot, known as Z’man Simchaseinu—the season of our rejoicing. It is a time to ensure that all necessary arrangements are made so everyone can celebrate properly. This includes both personal preparations and helping others who may need assistance to observe Yom Tov with happiness.4. Providing Holiday Needs for Others
A key aspect discussed by the Rebbe is ensuring that those in need receive help with their Yom Tov preparations well in advance—ideally thirty days before the festival. By providing support early, recipients have sufficient time to prepare and enjoy a truly joyous holiday. This applies not only to Sukkot but also to Rosh Hashanah, where there is a specific verse instructing people to eat good food, drink sweet beverages, and send gifts to those lacking resources.5. Discreet Charity Before Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot
Unlike before Pesach, when communal efforts are made openly to provide matzah and other essentials for those in need, there isn’t a widespread public tradition for Rosh Hashanah or Sukkot charity drives. The Rebbe explains that this is not because there are no needs; rather, it is done discreetly out of hope that everyone will be blessed with abundance in the coming year and not require public assistance. Nevertheless, it remains important—whether publicly or privately—to ensure everyone has what they need for Yom Tov.6. Ensuring Joyous Holidays for All
Ultimately, Chabad custom encourages making sure every Jew can celebrate Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot with joy and dignity. Whether through discreet giving or more open support where appropriate, we are responsible for seeing that no one is left without what they need for a happy Yom Tov experience—including a meaningful Yom Kippur as well.