1.   The service of Elul: extra prayer and ahavas yisrael.

2.   The lesson from a) Rosh Chodesh falling on Tuesday — “good for the heavens and for the creations”; b) Parshas Re’eh — open your eyes and “choose life.”

3.   The Rashi from last Shabbos (Devarim 9:11) — when does Rashi explain a variant spelling?

4.   Rashi on Devarim 15:8 and 15:10 — “opening your hand” and “giving” charity.

5.   Commentary on the Zohar — Elul for itself stresses Torah study; as the month of preparation for Tishrei, it stresses prayer.

6.   Pirkei Avos (6:10) — the Bais HaMikdash as a “possession” of G‑d.