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Beni Krohn - Elul Chizuk from Rabbi Krohn - Erev Shabbos Ki Teitzei 5780

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Author: Beni Krohn
Categories: Religion Psychology
Tags: religion, psychology
Views: 2 · Last viewed: 2026-10-16 00:55 UTC

Short Summary

Main recommendation: Blow the shofar and use the month of Elul as an opportunity to deposit mitzvos and Torah each day, refusing to "put down the bag" when the yetzer hara (the evil inclination, personified as the Satan) tries to distract you with excuses like "I don't have time." Drawing on a parable from the Dubna Maggid, the speaker argues that the shofar's sounding in Elul is meant to give clarity of purpose and remind listeners that they can still accomplish spiritual growth.

Key Points

  • The Dubna Maggid's parable: a courier carrying ten thousand dollars daily from a supermarket to the bank is tricked by a thief who gets him to take off his bag to be fitted for a suit, allowing the money to be stolen.
  • The yetzer hara works the same way, using distractions and excuses to stop people from accomplishing mitzvos.
  • The shofar in Elul serves as a wake-up call (the Rambam's point) that clarifies purpose and reminds listeners what they are trying to achieve.
  • Even in a complicated year, the speaker argues it is never too late; the Baal HaTanya taught that a Jew is never stuck.
  • Hashem is described (citing the Chassidim) as closer during Elul than at any other time of the year.

Details Worth Noting

  • Concrete instructions: The transcript gives no step-by-step method, schedule, or checklist. Its only actionable advice is to keep the "bag" (the mitzvos and Torah you are carrying) in hand, meaning don't set it down when distracted; to hear the shofar as a reminder of purpose; and to avoid believing it's too late or that Hashem isn't interested.
  • The shofar timing debate: the speaker notes it was a big discussion this year, with a minimum blowing time after dawn that every minyan observes.
  • The mitzvah of shofar itself is performed on Rosh Hashanah; the Elul blowing is customary and framed as preparation.
  • The parable's courier carried the cash daily and was targeted because the thief could not intercept him in open daylight on the direct route.
  • The speaker closes by hoping listeners have the courage, energy, and motivation to make the most of Elul.

Bottom Line

Elul is framed as a time when the yetzer hara is most active, but the shofar is meant to keep you alert so you keep hold of your spiritual "bag" and keep making deposits.