Rabbi Levinsky Sermon: August 29

Today is the first Shabbat in the month of Elul, which is a time dedicated to teshuvah—repentance or literally “return.” The process of teshuvah is not only about feeling regret for past misdeeds; it is about returning to one’s best self and seeking to repair relationships with others and with God. Traditionally, the Hebrew letters of “Elul” (אֵלוּל) form an acronym for the verse from Song of Songs 6:3: “Ani L’dodi V’dodi Li”—”I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” This phrase describes the loving relationship between the Jewish people and God and underscores the idea that God is particularly accessible during this month. I invite you to begin this personal and transformative process.