jewish highlights for the month of ELUL

 Following the sorrowful fast of Tisha B'Av, which commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples and other tragedies in Jewish history, the Jewish people begin a period of spiritual healing known as the Shiva D’Nechemta — the Seven Haftarot of Consolation. These seven prophetic readings, drawn from the Book of Isaiah, are recited on the seven Shabbatot between Tisha B'Av and Rosh Hashanah. Each one brings a message of hope, comfort, and divine reassurance for a better future.  

The sages structured the liturgical calendar so that the intense mourning of the “Three Weeks” and Tisha B’Av would be followed by seven weeks of gradual emotional and spiritual rebuilding. These haftarot are all from Isaiah, whose later prophecies are filled with promises of redemption, return, and closeness to God.

Shabbat Nachamu (immediately after Tisha B'Av)
“Comfort, comfort My people, says your God.”
This opening haftara sets the tone: God personally commands the prophets to offer consolation to Israel. It emphasizes that the exile will not last forever and that God has not abandoned His people.

“But Zion said: God has forsaken me.”
This haftara responds to the doubt and pain of the Jewish people, reassuring them that God has not forgotten them. God compares His love to that of a mother who cannot forget her child, promising redemption.

“O afflicted, storm-tossed one, uncomforted…”
God promises to rebuild Jerusalem with precious stones and to restore her glory. This haftara speaks of both physical and spiritual rebuilding and of the everlasting covenant between God and Israel.

“I, I am He who comforts you.”
This reading emphasizes that consolation comes directly from God Himself. The message: fear not earthly powers — God will redeem His people and return them to Jerusalem.

“Sing, barren one who did not give birth!”
This haftara compares Israel to a barren woman who will suddenly find herself surrounded by children. God's covenant is likened to the waters of Noah — never to be broken again. It focuses on spiritual rebirth and national restoration.

“Arise, shine, for your light has come.”
This is a powerful vision of the future glory of Jerusalem. Nations will be drawn to her light, and she will become the center of divine wisdom and justice. The themes are grandeur, dignity, and the central role of Israel in the world's spiritual future.

“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord…”
This final haftara completes the process of consolation. It presents a picture of joy, justice, and divine closeness. God is portrayed as actively bringing salvation and redemption to His people out of love and mercy.

The seven haftarot move in stages:

• The first three focus on Israel’s sense of abandonment and God's immediate response.
   
• The middle two develop the themes of rebuilding and divine reassurance.
   
• The final two climax with visions of a glorious future and Israel’s joy.