A Year Later: Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah
As we approach the special eight day observance of three significant Jewish festivals - Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah - this year feels especially different. Just one year ago, on the morning of Simchat Torah, the October 7 devastation occurred. Since then, we've witnessed immense challenges, with evil and hatred directed towards Israel and the Jewish people. This makes our celebration of these holidays even more important, as we affirm our Jewish unity and our commitment to bringing light and goodness into this world.
Here’s A Brief Guide To These Holidays:
1. Sukkot - Starting the Celebration 🍂
Sukkot begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 16. Named after the booths (sukkot) used by the Israelites in the desert and during the fall harvest, we dine and even sleep in the sukkah. Along with Pesach and Shavuot, it is a major pilgrimage festival.
2. Shemini Atzeret - Extending the Joy 🌟
On the eighth day of Sukkot, beginning Wednesday evening, October 23, we celebrate Shemini Atzeret. Traditionally, it extends the holiday celebration, adding an extra day to Sukkot. In Israel and for reform Jews outside of Israel, Shemini Atzeret is combined with Simchat Torah. However, for traditional Jews outside of Israel, the two are celebrated separately, making the holiday last an extra day.
3. Simchat Torah - A Celebration of Renewal 📜
Simchat Torah is the conclusion and immediate restart of the Torah reading cycle. Depending on custom, it begins either on Wednesday evening October 23, or Thursday evening, October 24.
Why The Mention Of “Outside Of Israel?”
Ever wonder why customs differ “outside of Israel?” It’s due to the diaspora tradition of adding an extra day for certain holidays. Here’s a detailed explanation of why Jews outside of Israel observe some holidays for an extra day.
Customs Of These Fall Festivals 🍁
- The first two days of Sukkot are “holy days,” traditionally observed without work, driving, or using electricity, a great chance to unplug, just like at camp
. - Many Jews build a Sukkah, giving them a place to eat and even to sleep during the holiday. It’s traditional to welcome guests (hachnasat orchim) and share meals in the Sukkah.
- We shake the Lulav and Etrog. Learn more about how and why here.
- We dip our challah in honey.
- Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are observed in a similar way to Sukkot’s first two days - another great time to disconnect!
- Simchat Torah is celebrated with singing and dancing with the Torah!
Holiday Greetings
The customary greeting for these holidays is “Chag Sameach,” meaning “Happy Holiday.”
Crafting Memories with Family 👨👩👧👦
- Sukkah Craft: If you can’t build a full size Sukkah, get crafty with a model size Sukkah. Key rules: at least 2.5 sides, organic material for the roof (s’chach) and view of the stars. Learn more here. Also, learn about an amazing Sukkah building competition.
- Sukkah Decor: Make a socially impactful paper chain. Even without a Sukkah, it’s a great activity for family discussions.
- Lego Fun: Watch this short Lego Sukkot movie with your family to learn about the holiday.
- Embrace Symbolism: Acquire a Lulav and Etrog (contact any Rabbi or visit a Sukkah Mobile). Check this out to learn about the significance of shaking the Lulav and Etrog.
- Dive into Torah studies: Reflect on Gemilut Chasadim (acts of loving kindness) and the concept of building a Kehillah Kedoshah (sacred community), just like we do at Beber Camp. Try this Torah based activity to spark discussion.
- Dance with Joy: Simchat Torah is a time for dancing! Check out this Beber Camp teaching video of Golden Boy and dance away!
Wishing you all a Chag Sameach!
Michael, Debbie, Stacy, Julia, Trudy, Harrell, and Nancy