By Cantor Beth Cohen

Elul is the final month in the Jewish calendar year, right before Rosh Ha-shanah (the Jewish New Year), which takes place on the first day in the month of Tishrei and is the anniversary of the creation of the world. The Hebrew word for “year” shanah also has the dual meanings of “change” and “repeat” reminding us to reflect on things about ourselves that we want to change or repeat.