I Am My Beloved's~Rabbi Shmuel Braun

As we enter the month of Elul it is a time for reflection, and for many a list of "rules" to be followed. The shiur below is by a rabbi that I have been privileged to learn with and who has a unique perspective, Rabbi Shmuel Braun. Through friends, I was able to become better acquainted with the rabbi outside of class, at Shabbos meals and other events. I still recall the many hours of lively discussion and exchange of ideas that we all found so enjoyable.

Rabbi Braun was not only a teacher, but a friend. He helped us in our learning without making us feel embarrassed at our lack of knowledge. In all areas he made learning something that we were excited about~it was never a chore.

One thing that I found particularly interesting was his wide area of study. On his Blog, The Sense of the Ineffable you will find not only quotes from Torah and Tanya, but from Kierkegaard, Maimonides, Kant and Shakespeare (to name a few!). Rabbi Braun is very learned in many areas, including philosophy, and is always willing to engage in lively discussion on any topic~he loves to be challenged. He is now based in America and is greatly missed by many people here in Jerusalem.

The shiur below is on the meaning of the month of Elul. Rabbi Braun has an exciting perspective on how we should view this very important time leading up to Rosh Hashanah.

 I Am My Beloved's~A Shiur on the Month of Elul by Rabbi Shmuel Braun

High Holidays

Erev Rosh Hashanah~29 Elul (12 September)--Light Candles at 06:10pm

Rosh Hashana~01 Tishri (13 September)--Light Candles at 7:25pm

Shabbat~02 Tishri (14 September)--Light Candles at: 6:08pm

03 Tishri (15 September)--Shabbat Ends: 7:23pm

The month of Elul brings the High Holidays. What does this mean to a convert?

A convert experiencing the "first" Elul, especially in Israel may be a bit overwhelmed--I would suggest finding a transliterated Machzor. When I started to become observant this allowed me to follow the service (and understand what was being said) I experienced...well, I really can't describe it, but I pray that I can reach that level again.

Starting this Motzei Shabbat many shuls have slichot--usually beginning around 11:45pm--in preparation for Rosh Hashanah. Many synagogues also have reserve seating during these days, so sure to check with your vaad. There are many good sites for information on the Holy Days, but one must be cautious and be sure to consult with your local rabbi on all issues of Halacha.

I think the most difficult thing is when a convert has not yet completed the process. In your heart and mind you feel Jewish, but you are still a "gentile to the community". It can be a time of stress, pain, and even depression. Those who were blessed to be born Jewish often do not understand how difficult it is for the convert--everyone is so involved with their own family and customs. Perhaps this is just another hurdle that one must overcome in the quest to become Jewish. It is difficult, but it can also be a time of sincere, soul-searching prayer. Find a good teacher, follow the customs of your community, concentrate on finding the true meaning of the High Holy days.

May we all merit to be written into the Book of Life to have a happy, healthy and successful year for us, our families, and all Israel...Shanah Tovah