Immediately following the awesome days of Rosh Hashana through Yom Kippur, we prepare for the joyous exuberance of Sukkot - the "Season of our Rejoicing." After leaving Egypt, during the forty years of wandering in the wilderness, the Jewish people were surrounded by protective "clouds of glory." In commemoration, and to enhance our awareness of G-d's all-embracing love and protection, we are commanded, "In Sukkahs (booths) you shall dwell, seven days" (Leviticus 23:42).
Hoshana Rabba
The seventh day of Sukkot, is called Hoshana Rabba. It is customary to stay awake the night before and recite portions of Torah and the Book of Psalms after midnight. After the recital of the Psalms we eat an apple dipped in honey. Part of the morning prayers include circling the Bima (platform) seven times, lulav and etrog in hand. Then we recite special prayers, called "Hoshanot." At the culmination of the Hoshanot (in an ancient rite of profound mystical significance), we beat on the floor five willow branches which are bound together, symbolically "sweetening" G-d's judgment.
Simchat Torah
Simchat Torah is the culmination of a month filled with uplifting experiences. We have stood in awe before the King of the Universe; we have been forgiven and cleansed by His mercy; and we have experienced the joy of uniting with G-dliness through His beautiful commandments. Now, we rejoice with His Torah. We take the sacred scrolls in our arms and dance together, scholar and novice alike. During the dancing, the scroll remains in its cover, for this is not a time for study. The joy of Simchat Torah is far greater than any delight we may derive from intellectual understanding. Here again, we emphasize that sublime level of the Jewish soul where we are all one.
