We present a free-translation of Roshei Devarim from the Sichah of Chai Elul 5751 (following Maariv), with added subtitles. Most Sichas on Chai Elul underscore its central theme of “vitality” – the need to permeate each aspect of our divine service with vitality, by focusing on the essential bond that any particular service creates between the one who performs the service with He who commanded it. However, the Rebbe devoted this entire Sichah to accentuate the need for guidance in the practical application of Chai Elul; since “the main thing is the deed,” the Rebbe highlights a number of straightforward directives for Chai Elul.
What is the Theme of Elul?
It has been mentioned many times by the Rebbes of Chabad and has further been published, that among the many insights into Chai Elul, there is but one primary message: Chai Elul’s main theme amongst many is to cause vitality to permeate every aspect of Elul.
Torah, Avodah and Gemilas Chassadim
It is therefore clear, that because Elul is the month for self-reckoning concerning the outgoing year, and the month of preparation for the coming year, Elul should therefore contain both a reckoning and a preparation regarding 1) Torah, 2) prayer and 3) charitable deeds. After all, [these comprise the “three pillars] upon which the world stands” (Pirkei Avos 1:2).
Add Vitality
Now, this is certainly true of each Jew’s personal “world,” all the more so since the entire universe was only created for the sake of each Jew[’s Divine service]. Therefore, there needs to be an additional vitality in the above [three areas], on Chai Elul.
What’s Wrong With Abstract?
Having said that, it is patently obvious when informing someone of a purely spiritual concept, although on some occasions he will comprehend the practical directive on his own, there are times when he will simply not understand what is being asked of him.
Save Time – Speak Practically
[In order to crystallize the abstract concept into an applicable message,] he will launch into a debate on the topic, thus squandering his time in utterly unnecessary fashion. Here is a remedy to avert such a situation – and it is a solid piece of advice regarding countless spiritual matters: connect the spiritual theme with something physical which everyone, or at least the great majority of people, are equally able to perform.
Theory Divides – Action Unites
[Leaving someone with] a purely spiritual matter, on the other hand, is to a far greater degree relying on the feelings of his heart and the comprehension of his mind [to find a tangible expression of the abstract teaching]. And it is specifically in the heart and mind that the key differences between people exist. That [concern] is not the case regarding actions, and particularly among the actions of Jews, who were all commanded [by G-d] concerning these deeds – which are [directly] included within the Torah’s 248 positive commands, and, in a converse manner, within its 365 prohibitions.
The Main Thing is What – Not How
Now, although within the actual observance of the Torah’s commandments differences may exist – differences that vary from one extreme to another – the commandments nevertheless share a common denominator: they could all be “touched with a hand” and could be “pointed to with a finger” [i.e., they all concern something physical that is within reach of every Jew]. It is true that even after being given a physical directive, a Jew must still contemplate exactly what to do and the like, but he is at least able to immediately formulate and picture the matter in his mind.
