“The birthday of a tzadik, a righteous person, has a strong connection and a profound effect on the month in which the birthday occurs.

…

The vitality generated by the Baal Shem Tov’s teachings energizes the intensified divine service which characterizes the whole of Elul.

Unique to Elul is the concept — that man, rather than G-d, takes the initiative in heightening the love relation­ship we share with Him.

This aspect of Elul requires that man be capable of proceeding in his divine service on his own initiative. And this ability was granted us by the Alter Rebbe’s teachings.”