Elul is a time that we need to improve and excel in our Bein Adam L’chavero. This is alluded to in אביונים למתנות ורעהו ליש א, as its initials spell אלול. We must show solicitude and care about each other as is hinted to in שלוםלרעהו ליש אישאלו ו, each inquired about the other’s well-being, where the first letters spell אלול.
When we act this way, we can then arrive at Rosh Hashana in unity, the way that it is intended. Indeed, Rosh Hashana is called יום תרועה, a day of רעות, love and friendship. This idea is also hinted to in בחדש השביעי באחד לחדש (in the seventh month on the first day of the month, which refers to Rosh Hashana): we must arrive at Rosh Hashana באחד, as one, in unity.
Esther 9:22. Shemos 18:7. Bamidbar 29:1. The simple meaning of this is “A day of shofar-sounding.”
