October 31, 2005
You shall observe the Feast of Weeks, of the first fruits of the wheat harvest; and the Feast of Ingathering at the turn of the year (Exodus: 34:22).
A Torah-based celebration and tradition, Sukkoth refers to the agricultural activities of the times thousands of years ago specifically with regards to the grape harvest. This is one of four names by which Sukkoth is known (also Feast of Booths).
Certainly much cause for thought, reflection and conversation during Sukkoth must include the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the earthquake in Pakistan (where alone more than 79000 have died!) and the mudslides in Guatemala where all told more than 120,000 can be included in the toll of devastation. And finally, the 6.2 earthquake that has recently rocked Tokyo.
At my first celebration, I remember being called to “dwell”, commune and eat (albeit pizza, fruit punch, chocolate chip cookies and soda) in a primitive Sukkoth, where the roof and impermanent walls brought us that much closer to the elements and each other. There we could view the sun and with views to the stars as well, and we could experience the rains.
Sukkoth should remind us that we do not have to wait until tragedy to accept the impermanence of human construction. When we feel vulnerable, we are instructed to gather together and find strength in each other. We are at the mercy of the elements, and when they force us to do so, it is time to seek the safety and sanctity that can best be found when we gather together.
A Torah-based celebration and tradition, Sukkoth refers to the agricultural activities of the times thousands of years ago specifically with regards to the grape harvest. This is one of four names by which Sukkoth is known (also Feast of Booths).
Certainly much cause for thought, reflection and conversation during Sukkoth must include the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the earthquake in Pakistan (where alone more than 79000 have died!) and the mudslides in Guatemala where all told more than 120,000 can be included in the toll of devastation. And finally, the 6.2 earthquake that has recently rocked Tokyo.
At my first celebration, I remember being called to “dwell”, commune and eat (albeit pizza, fruit punch, chocolate chip cookies and soda) in a primitive Sukkoth, where the roof and impermanent walls brought us that much closer to the elements and each other. There we could view the sun and with views to the stars as well, and we could experience the rains.
Sukkoth should remind us that we do not have to wait until tragedy to accept the impermanence of human construction. When we feel vulnerable, we are instructed to gather together and find strength in each other. We are at the mercy of the elements, and when they force us to do so, it is time to seek the safety and sanctity that can best be found when we gather together.
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