Four days after Yom Kippur, on the 15th of Tishrei according to the Jewish calendar, the time of Sukkot (the Feast of Tabernacles or Harvest) begins and lasts for 7 days. This year, Sukkot will be celebrated from sundown on October 16 to evening on October 23.
According to tradition, to celebrate this holiday, you need to build a sukkah (smokehouse) and, under favorable weather conditions, live there for 7 days: meet guests, arrange a joint festive feast, have fun, dance and even sleep under the same roof. This ancient custom is a reminder of the life of our ancestors in the Sinai desert and the fact that a lot can be achieved if we stick together. It is believed that Jews who place a smokestack near their house will join those who wandered forty years ago in the 33rd century. And when they finally reached Eretz Yisrael (the Promised Land), they worked on this land and rejoiced in the fruits it gave. Sages believe that the Feast of Shrubs indicates the importance of maintaining faith in the divine essence that protects against all troubles. Therefore, during Sukkot, they reverently thank G-d for the crops grown and harvested.
During the holiday, a special ritual is performed – “raising the lulav” (netilat lulav) – during which it is customary to say blessings to four types of plants (arbaa minim). These include: etrog (citron), lulav (date palm branch), adas (myrtle branch) and arava (willow branch), which together symbolize the unity of the nation. This ritual takes place on each of the seven days of Sukkot (except Saturday).
Congratulations to all the Jews on the holiday! Good and peace to you and your families!