Dates in Elul
6 Elul – Shabbat Parshat Shoftim. The sixth chapter of Pirkei Avot is recited.
13 Elul – Shabbat Parshat Ki Teitzei. According to Chabad, when reading the last Passuk of the Parsha, the word Zeicher is read twice, first with a Tzeirei (Zeicher), and then again with a Segol (Zecher). The first and second chapter of Pirkei Avot is recited.
15 Elul – Being thirty days before Sukkot, one begins learning its Halachot. This thirty-day period should also be utilized to ensure that the Chag needs of the poor are met, as well as planning Sukkot festivities.
18 Elul – The birthday of the Baal Shem Tov and the Baal Hatanya. On this day, the Chabad Rebbeim would wish one a “Chag Sameach”. The last 12 days of Elul (18-29 Elul) correspond to the 12 months of the year. On each of these days, one should make a reckoning of the corresponding month, and make all necessary corrections.
20 Elul – Shabbat Parshat Ki Tavo. The third and fourth chapter of Pirkei Avot is recited by all. The opening Mishna (“Kol Yisrael”) and concluding Mishna (“Rabbi Chananya”) are recited only once.
