For years I have wondered what the connection was between chapter 27 of Tehillim (L’Dovid Hashem Ohree) and the month of Elul. I could not understand what the underlying message was. I have read numerous explanations, however it was only yesterday when I finally discovered an explanation that satisfied me.
During the month of Elul we take upon ourselves new mitzvos and concrete ways that we will be better in order to properly prepare for Rosh Hashana. Immediately after we take this step forward, obstacles arise and people may notice that we are “changing” and try to impede our personal growth.
Beginning Rosh Chodesh Elul we say chapter 27 of Tehillim after davening. In the last pasuk (27:14) we are given our daily dose of encouragement; Hashem reminds us that He recognizes our latest struggle and tells us not to lose our resolve:
“Hope for Hashem, be strong and He will give your heart courage, and hope for Hashem.”
I’m with you on that McAryeh. I aparticularly draw strength from the fact that it is repeated, though I’m not sure I’ve gotten a grasp on the reason it is repeated.
That is one of the psukim which has always provided the most chizuk to me and which has always resonated with me. Hope to HaShem is our best weapon.
Great posting!
“Immediately after we take this step forward, obstacles arise and people may notice that we are “changing†and try to impede our personal growth.”
This is the way Hashem works, at times. Our growth should not be easy. In fact, when Hashem give us obstacles it is only to remind us that we ARE on the the correct path.
I recall hearing an interesting talk on Chapter 27 by Cantor Rav Moshe Noam, who served for a time at Congregation Sons of Israel in Allentown, PA in the 1980’s before returning to Israel. He noted how Dovid HaMelech starts off in very confident fashion but then (starting with verse 7) is suddenly in a serious crisis. Dovid HaMelech desperately pleads to HaShem for help, and has recovered his equilibrium by the end.