Hoshana Rabbah in the United Kingdom

Hoshana Rabbah is the seventh day of the Jewish festival of Sukkot and holds significant religious importance within the Jewish community, including those in the United Kingdom. This day typically falls in late September or October, according to the Gregorian calendar.

History and Traditions:

• Historical Significance: Hoshana Rabbah, which means "Great Salvation," is traditionally considered the day when the judgments that were written on Rosh Hashanah and sealed on Yom Kippur are delivered. It is seen as the final day of divine judgment.

• Religious Observances: The customs include a special synagogue service where participants make seven circuits while holding the Four Species: etrog (citron), lulav (palm frond), hadassim (myrtle branches), and aravot (willow branches).

• Hoshanot: During these circuits, prayers called "Hoshanot" are recited, which involve pleas for divine salvation. On this day, there is a tradition to recite more Hoshanot than on other days of Sukkot.

• Willow Branches: In some communities, there is a custom to beat willow branches on the ground at the end of services to symbolize casting away sins.

What People Do:

In the UK, observant Jews attend synagogue services that feature these unique rituals. Additionally:

• Sukkah: Many continue to eat their meals in the sukkah, although without reciting the blessing over dwelling in it since it is technically no longer Sukkot.

• Festive Meal: Some may have a festive meal in honor of what is considered to be one of Judaism's minor festivals.

• Preparation for Simchat Torah: Preparations may also begin for Simchat Torah, which occurs immediately after Hoshana Rabbah and celebrates completing the annual reading cycle of the Torah.

While not a public holiday in Britain, within Jewish communities throughout cities like London or Manchester, Hoshana Rabbah is observed with traditional reverence consistent with global Jewish practice.