SUKKOT WHAT?
This week is the Jewish Holiday of Sukkot … a holiday I needed to read about just now to get a grasp of it.
From sundown on September 20 until nightfall September 27, Jewish people eat all their meals in a “Sukkah”. The Sukkah is a temporary dwelling with at least three walls and a roof built from natural materials. The roof provides more shade than sun, though still has enough openings so one can see through to the stars at night.
A TINY BIT SAD
I am a little sad. I haven’t built a Sukkah so I won’t be celebrating this joyful holiday for the full eight days.
I don’t mind being sad. The desire shows my path forward. Feeling called to celebrate this holiday says, Yes! Taking on more mitzvahs….
* newly koshering my home (where I am still making lots of mistakes!)
* observing Shabbat, the lovely divine day of rest, family, G-d
and…. well… at least eating one meal this Sukkot in my Rabbi’s Sukkah…
is
good.
SLOW DOWN
Several people have told me not to rush increasing Jewish observances. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and give it all up if we do too much too fast.
Though I remind them that, not for nothing, but I spent twenty years dipping my toes in Judaism before I made my home Kosher.
A BIT MORE ABOUT SUKKAT
Sukkot celebrates the new harvest AND “the miraculous protection G‑d provided for the children of Israel when they left Egypt” (Chabad.org.) Blessings are said, candles are lit, and there is a ritual done with the “four kinds” (a palm branch, willows, myrtles, and a citron). When the palm branch (lulav) and citron (etrog) are brought together and the blessing is said, the mitzvah has been done!
THE PRISM
A few years ago while eating in my Rabbi’s Sukkah during a community celebration, I don’t know why or how, but a distinct peace, oneness and love of fellow filled the outdoor temporary hut. It wasn’t about sitting next to a good friend or admired mentor; it was a kindness, richness, a true coming together. One congregant who was extremely shy and stutters profoundly was asked to share something. In a big beautiful surprise, the words flowed out seamlessly and for that moment, her shyness and challenges evaporated.
TORAH AND JOY
As the Chasidic saying goes, “Sukkah is the only mitzvah into which a person enters with his muddy boots.”
“You shall rejoice on your festival,” says the Torah. And from Maimonides: “When one eats and drinks, one must also feed the stranger, the orphan, the widow and the other unfortunate paupers. One who locks the doors of his courtyard and feasts and drinks with his children and wife, but does not feed the poor and the embittered—this is not the joy of the mitzvah, but the joy of his stomach.”
Joy, song, dance, unity, celebration, and muddy boots.
Next year… a Sukkah, with beautiful decorations. The muddy boots make it real.
Chag Sameach! Here is a link to find a Sukkot celebration near you: SUKKOT EVENT DIRECTORY. Have a joyful time of unity wherever you are.
Love, Vivi 💖 ©
p.s. I couldn’t help myself. I just posted this on my local virtual community site:
UNUSUAL REQUEST! (SUKKOT Holiday)
Does anyone have a used easy to put together Sukkah they could sell or loan? The Jewish holiday began last night (Mon 9/20) and I, last minute, am hoping to put together a quick Sukkah for the holiday. Thanks!
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Duck Photo by Christine Sponchia from Pixabay, Prism Photo by Tyler Casey, Muddy boots Photo by Christian Collins from Pixabay, Other Photos from Canva.com
I enjoyed reading your experiences and thoughts of the sukkot holiday.
Thank you so much Malka! I hope you and your family have a happy fun and meaningful Sukkot! Chag Sameach!! 💖
Dear Vivi: Thank you for adding to my understanding of Sukkot and its symbolism. I love the idea of the Sukkah being a hug. At my shul, Romemu, people were saying, “Hug Sameach” (instead of “Chag” = Holiday. I also needed the message about taking baby steps. After all, most babies do eventually learn to walk! I was moved by your feeling of belonging at your Sukkah meal; such a warm image. Happy Sukkot. Chag Sameach!
Chag Sameach Susanne! Wishing you a glorious holiday and new year! Thank you for your thoughtful comments. They mean a lot of me. 🧡
I really liked this post! It clearly told me where you started, where you are today, and a little about how you got there. I enjoyed hearing about the journey and about how you’re coming along.
Linda, Thank you! I always appreciate your comments! Happy Sukkot 💖💞