This [that it is far easier to implement a message containing a practical directive] is certainly true now, during the month of Elul; we could easily connect this [above] information [regarding the theme of Chai Elul] to the concerns of Elul.
1) Chai Elul in Prayer
For a theme that is emphasized by all Jewry at this time, is the addition in prayer; why, even Torah scholars subtract time from their study schedules in order to augment their prayers during Elul.
All Tehillim is Prayer
[It is therefore certain, that] regarding the service of prayer (which is generally called “The Service”), every Jew is able to join the abovementioned theme [of Chai Elul] with the chapters of Tehillim that are connected to the entire month of Elul, and especially the chapters that relate to Chai Elul. They can do so with the three additional chapters which are recited specifically during the month of Elul, with the daily portion for the 17th of the month and the 18th of the month etc., as well as with the special prayers that are said during Elul. This all contains particular relevance to Chai Elul, [whose theme – the “vitality” of Elul – is the essential bond between the Jews and G-d; a theme that is shared with prayer. See above, footnote 3, for further explanation].
Ponder-Free Proposals
In light of the above, even if it appears to an individual that deep contemplation is indeed necessary in order to discover something to which he can “add vitality” (i.e., in connecting with his additional activities), nevertheless, we hereby present him with an already prepared directive [i.e., the abovementioned proposal regarding Tehillim] which is “tangible” to all Jews alike.
2) Chai Elul in Torah
[Having translated the theme of Chai Elul into an easy-to-fulfill, practical directive for the service of prayer,] we can apply the same to our Torah study:
Laws of the Festivals
There are Torah subjects that are time-related – for example, the laws of Elul, Rosh Hashanah and the subsequent days [of Tishrei]. Moreover, these laws are particularly relevant now, for we are within thirty days of Sukkos, when one should begin studying and contemplating its laws. In fact this period [that carries the obligation to study the laws of Sukkos,] already began on the 15th of Elul – it is certainly relevant now, on the 18th of Elul!
3) Chai Elul in Charitable Acts
Further, [we could find a tangible way to express the theme of Chai Elul] with regard to charitable deeds too. ([Charitable deeds] fall under the general category of Tzedakah.) So, in order to prevent the debate over what to do or what not to do [I will again spell out the directive in full]:
Provide Needy with Festival Supplies
For a start, there is [now] the [requirement of] Tzedakah to aid our fellow Jews in their necessities for the festival of Sukkos, and likewise regarding their Rosh Hashanah needs – concerning which it is written (Nechemya 8:10), “Go, eat rich foods, drink sweet beverages and send portions to those who have nothing prepared – for today is sacred to G-d!”
Increase Tzedakah – It’s Good For You Too
Further, Tzedakah contains a unique association with Chai Elul – and “all who add, are added to [by Heaven]” (which is a concept that starts on the 15th of Av and continues after it – for that same Mishnah [which contains the above quote] also links the 15th of Av with Yom Kippur, as we have mentioned on numerous occasions).
