11 Elul (Shabbos) – The wedding of the Rebbe Rashab to Rebbetzin Shterna Sara.
In the last Possuk of Krias Hatorah, Zeicher is read twice, first with a Tzeirei (Zeicher), and then with a Segol (Zecher).
13 Elul – The wedding of the Frierdiker Rebbe to Rebbetzin Nechama Dina. The day is utilized to learn the Frierdiker Rebbe’s Maamarim on the topic of marriage.
14 Elul – Being thirty days before Sukkos, one begins learning its Halachos. This thirty-day period should also be utilized to ensure that the Yom-Tov needs of the poor are met, as well as planning Tishrei Mivtzoim and Sukkos festivities.
15 Elul – The founding of Tomchei Temimim. One should visit Tomchei Temimim, participate in a Farbrengen, and resolve to strengthen one’s adherence to all matters that Tomchei Temimim stands for.
18 Elul (Shabbos) – The birthday of the Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe. On this day, the Rebbeim would say “Gut Yom Tov”. One should participate in a Farbrengen, share stories of Tzadikim, resolve to increase in learning Nigleh and especially Chassidus, and increase in Ahavas Yisroel.
To someone who asked whether to recite Tachnun on Chai Elul, the Rebbe responded, “Regarding matters which depend on one’s feeling, one should not ask, as doing so is itself the proof that one lacks feeling.”
In Krias Hatorah, the Tochecha is read more quietly and quickly than usual. Obviously, one must still hear every single word. The Baal Koreh receives this Aliyah and recites the Brochos before and after. He is not formally called up to the Torah, but he may receive a Mi Sheberach after.
The 3rd and 4th chapters of Pirkei Avos are recited after Mincha. The opening Mishna of “Kol Yisroel” and concluding Mishna of “Rabbi Chananya” is recited only once.
The last 12 days of Elul correspond to the 12 months of the year. [The 23rd of Elul represents both months of Adar.] On each of these days, one should take stock of the corresponding month, and make all necessary corrections.
