Chapter 128:16
The Month of Elul
16. It is customary to annul our vows on the day preceding Rosh HaShanah
(1) (There is a Biblical allusion to this practice - the final letters of
the words "Lo Yachel D'varo, K'chol..." ["He should not break his word..."
- Numbers 30:3] form the name of the month Elul.)
A person who does not understand the Hebrew text should recite the
declaration in a language which he understands (2).
FOOTNOTES:
(1) The annulment of vows ("Hataras Nedarim") must be performed in the
presence of as least three adult males, who serve as judges. In certain
communities, it is customary to seek a court of ten.
(2) The text for the anullment of vows can be found in all prayer books.