1. The Significance of Chai Elul and Its Historical Context
Today is the 17th day of Elul, and tomorrow is the 18th—Chai Elul, which means “the life of Elul” or the vitality of this month. From Chai Elul, there are twelve days left until the end of the year, each corresponding to a month in the past and serving as preparation for a month in the future. This period is especially significant as it leads up to Rosh Hashanah. Notably, next year will be a leap year with two months of Adar, making thirteen months in total.
Chai Elul also marks the birthdays of two pivotal figures in Hasidic history: the Baal Shem Tov, founder of the general Hasidic movement, born on a Monday in the year 5458 (תנ״ח), and 47 years later on a Wednesday, the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman, founder of Chabad Hasidus, born in 5505 (תק״ה). Although the Alter Rebbe only saw the Baal Shem Tov once as a child at his upsherin—hair-cutting ceremony—he always referred to him as his spiritual Zaydi—grandfather. Even during times of great personal trial and imprisonment, the Alter Rebbe never denied his connection to the Baal Shem Tov.
The Baal Shem Tov and Alter Rebbe are often called Shnei HaMe’oros HaGedolim—the two great luminaries—a phrase echoing Hashem’s creation of two great lights in Genesis. Each illuminated their generation with Hasidic teachings: the Baal Shem Tov with general Hasidus and Emunah (faith), and the Alter Rebbe with Chabad—bringing Hasidus into intellectual understanding.
2. The Legacy and Leadership Structure After the Baal Shem Tov
After the passing of the Baal Shem Tov, leadership initially passed to his son but only for a year before being transferred to the Maggid of Mezritch. The Maggid was chosen due to his strong leadership abilities, which were necessary given significant opposition from other Jewish groups known as Misnagdim. The Maggid gathered around him some of that era’s greatest minds and scholars, forming a counterbalance to Lithuanian scholars who followed the Vilna Gaon.
This period coincided with tumultuous times for European Jewry: pogroms such as those led by Chmielnicki left Jews vulnerable and often targeted. Despite these hardships, Hasidism flourished under strong leadership that emphasized both scholarship and heartfelt service to Hashem.
3. Birthdays as Spiritual Milestones: Gut Yom Tov and Chabad Customs
While most people may not celebrate birthdays enthusiastically as they age, for figures like the Baal Shem Tov and Alter Rebbe their birthdays are marked as Gut Yom Tov—a festive day. In Chabad custom, there is even discussion about omitting Tachnun—supplicatory prayers—on this day due to its celebratory nature.
The birth of a new soul is seen not merely as descending into a more challenging world but as an opportunity for new spiritual potential. The Rebbe connects this idea with both luminaries’ birthdays: their arrival brought new spiritual energy into existence that continues to inspire us today.
4. The Expansion of 770 Eastern Parkway: Symbolism and Community Growth
The number 770 holds special significance as it is both the address of Lubavitch World Headquarters in Crown Heights and has a gematria (numerical value) equaling “Ufaratzta”—“you shall spread out.” When I grew up in Crown Heights, 770 was just a four-story building chosen because it had an elevator suitable for the previous Rebbe’s needs after enduring hardship in Russia.
Over time, 770 underwent several expansions to accommodate growing crowds until it spanned multiple buildings. About thirty years ago, another major expansion took place with groundbreaking attended by the Rebbe himself—a moment recently rediscovered on video. This event symbolizes not just physical growth but also spiritual expansion: spreading Torah outward from its headquarters.
5. Founding of Tomchei Temimim Yeshiva and Its Role in Renewal
The first Chabad yeshiva, Tomchei Temimim, was established on the 15th day of Elul. Its name comes from verses recited during Hakafos on Simchas Torah, and its students are called Temimim—wholesome or innocent ones (tomim tihyeh im Hashem Elokecha). While founded on 15 Elul, the first study schedule began on 18 Elul, tying its mission directly into this period of preparation for Rosh Hashanah.
6. The Month of Elul: Introspection and Moral Demands
The month of Elul is traditionally dedicated to introspection, self-improvement, and preparing for judgment on Rosh Hashanah. Elul reminds us that our actions matter: we must live holy lives, speak truthfully, do mitzvos, and care for others.
This stands in contrast to much of society where such values may not be prioritized. Even if we don’t always live up perfectly, Elul is our opportunity to reflect deeply and strive for better.
7. Emunah Versus Intellectual Internalization: Lessons from Hasidus
The Baal Shem Tov emphasized emunah—sincere belief in Hashem—a crucial foundation especially during times when Jews faced persecution. However, emunah alone doesn’t always translate into action.
A classic example from Gemara illustrates this: a thief prays to Hashem for success while breaking into a house. If he truly believed, why would he steal? Emunah might remain abstract unless internalized intellectually (Chabad) so that it guides behavior.
This is why during Elul we strive not just to believe but also act according to our beliefs—making real changes rather than relying solely on faith.
8. The Mitzvah of Bikkurim: Gratitude Through Action
The first mitzvah discussed in Parshas Ki Savo is bikkurim—bringing first fruits from Israel’s seven species (wheat, barley, grapes, pomegranates, figs, olives, dates) as an offering.
The process involves marking ripening fruit or grain with a band, later gathering them into a basket during Shavuos or Sukkos festivals. ‘‘V’anisa v’amarta’’—“say aloud”—the Torah insists gratitude must be expressed verbally:“ Thank you Hashem for all You have given me.””
Bikkurim teaches us not only gratitude but also generosity: we bring our best produce—not leftovers—to share with others (the Kohen). This challenges our sense that success comes solely from personal effort (kochi v’otzem yadi asa li et hachayil hazeh)—“my strength made me successful.” Instead, we acknowledge everything comes from Hashem’s blessing, making it easier to share even our best. All Jews brought bikkurim, but there were many Kohanim available; each person could choose whom to give their gift. Importantly, unlike sacrifices burned on an altar, bikkurim were simply eaten by another person—the Kohen. This teaches us that serving Hashem doesn’t require dramatic acts: even daily interactions—sharing, helping others—are offerings when done with intention. Everyday life offers countless opportunities to serve Hashem through kindness, generosity, and gratitude. The mitzvah only applied after all tribes received their land—a process taking fourteen years after entering Israel. Rashi explains true joy—and thus true gratitude—was only possible when everyone could participate together. If some were still waiting for their portion, no individual’s joy was complete. This underscores communal responsibility: our happiness isn’t whole unless shared by all. This message runs counter to modern individualism and reflects core values taught by Chabad and broader Hasidus: caring deeply about every Jew’s wellbeing. The Baal Shem Tov revolutionized Jewish thought by valuing every soul—not just scholarship—and teaching that simple sincerity can surpass intellectual achievement. Stories abound where heartfelt prayer or simple acts outweighed learned discourse. As taught: rachmana liba ba’ei—“ Hashem desires your heart.” A little done with intention outweighs much without it. Even small acts, when sincere, are precious before G-d.
9. Living Meaningfully: Inspiration from Our Leaders
Caring about one another remains central yet challenging; it’s something we must continually strive toward even if perfection eludes us. One thing sorely missed today is constant reminders from our leaders—especially the Rebbe—about living lives filled with meaning, purpose, and trust in Hashem’s goodness despite difficulties. Reading letters from the Rebbe each morning provides daily inspiration: gentle encouragements urging us toward faith, hope, and positive action. As we approach Chai Elul—a Gut Yom Tov , a spiritual birthday—we should try living by these messages: drawing inspiration from both the Alter Rebbe and the Baal Shem Tov to make our lives—and those around us—more meaningful, joyful, and connected.