Hoshana Rabbah in Canada

Hoshana Rabbah, observed on the seventh day of Sukkot, is a Jewish holiday celebrated by Jews in Canada and around the world. It typically falls in late September or October.

History and Traditions:

• Significance: Hoshana Rabbah is considered the last of the Days of Judgment which began on Rosh Hashanah. According to tradition, it's the day when the final judgment for the new year is sealed.
• Etymology: The name "Hoshana Rabbah" translates to "Great Salvation," referring to the special prayers for divine mercy.
• Customs: A key tradition is the hoshanot, where worshippers in synagogues walk around the Torah scrolls reciting prayers for salvation. It concludes with a special prayer called Hoshana (save us).
• Willow Branches: Another custom involves beating willow branches (aravot) against the ground, symbolizing either the elimination of sin or a prayer for rain, depending on different interpretations.

Observances in Canada:

• In Canada, as with other Jewish communities, observance typically takes place within synagogues and homes.
• Jewish Canadians build and decorate sukkahs (temporary booths) as part of Sukkot and may continue to eat meals there during Hoshana Rabbah.
• The day is not a public holiday in Canada; therefore, unless it falls on a weekend, observant Jewish Canadians may take time off work or school to attend services.
• As with other regions, some Canadian Jews participate in all-night study sessions known as Tikkun Hoshana Rabbah, delving into religious texts and ethical teachings.

Since Hoshana Rabbah is not as widely known or publicly observed as some other Jewish holidays like Yom Kippur or Passover, its celebration tends to be more community and synagogue-centered among those who follow traditional Jewish practices.