SUKKOT is coming!

How to Get Ready

Sukkah

Sukkot is a Biblical holiday that celebrates the harvest and the divine protection of the ancient Israelites during their exodus from Egypt. It is one of the three pilgrimage festivals, when Jews would travel to Yerushalyim to worship at the Temple. Sukkot lasts for seven days, starting from the 15th day of the month of Tishrei, usually in September or October.

One of the main observances of Sukkot is to build and dwell in a sukkah, a temporary hut made of natural materials. The sukkah reminds us of the fragility of life and the dependence on Elohim. It is also a symbol of hospitality, as we invite guests and share meals in the sukkah. Another ritual of Sukkot is to take the four species, which are a palm branch, a citron, a myrtle branch, and a willow branch. These represent the diversity and unity of YHWH's people people and nature.

Sukkot is a joyous festival that expresses gratitude for Elohim's bounty and care. It is also a time to reflect on our Jewish history and values as a people. Sukkot invites us to connect with nature, with our community, and with Biblical tradition.

Getting Started

- To celebrate Sukkot, you will need to build a temporary hut called a sukkah, where you will eat, sleep and spend time with your family and friends.

- The sukkah should have at least three walls and a roof made of natural materials that provide some shade but also allow you to see the stars at night.

- You will also need to acquire four species of plants: a palm branch, a citron, three myrtle branches, and two willow branches. These are known as the lulav and etrog, and they are used for a special blessing and ritual during Sukkot.

- On each day of Sukkot, except for Shabbat, you will take the lulav and etrog in your hands and wave them in six directions: east, south, west, north, up, and down. This symbolizes Elohim's presence and sovereignty over all creation.

- You will also recite the Hallel, a series of psalms that praise YHWH, and participate in communal prayers and services at your synagogue or temple.

- On the last day of Sukkot, known as Hoshana Rabbah, you will circle the synagogue seven times with your lulav and etrog, and then beat the willow branches on the ground. This is a way of asking YHWH for rain and forgiveness.

- The day after Sukkot is another festival called Shemini Atzeret, which means "the eighth day of assembly". It is a separate holiday that marks the end of the festive season and the beginning of the winter. On this day, you will pray for rain and recite a special memorial service for the departed.

- The same day is also celebrated as Simchat Torah, which means "rejoicing in the Torah". It is a joyous occasion that marks the completion and renewal of the annual cycle of reading the Torah. On this day, you will dance with the Torah scrolls and read the last and first portions of the Torah.

Honestly, this can be a bit much for the first time around. The idea is to always walk closer to YHWH. The very first year my wife and I celebrated Sukkot, we had dinner under a tent. It was beautiful.