Chai Elul and Its Significance

Today is the birthday of the Baal Shem Tov (in the year 5458/1698) and the Alter Rebbe (in 5505/1745).

“Chassidim repeat an old chassidishe saying in two versions: (1) Chai Elul is the day that brought life and brings life into Elul. (2) Chai Elul gives life into the avodah of Ani ledodi vedodi li.” (Sefer Hasichos 5705, p. 122)

Participate in a farbrengen.

The Rebbe Rashab and Frierdiker Rebbe would say “Gut Yom Tov” on Chai Elul.

The twelve days from Chai Elul until Erev Rosh Hashanah correspond to the twelve months of the year. On each day, a cheshbon hanefesh should be made for the corresponding month of the past year. (Sefer Hasichos 5703, pp. 177; 179)