Sukkot (Day 1) in Israel

Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Feast of Booths, is a significant seven-day Jewish festival that begins on the 15th day of Tishrei, according to the Hebrew calendar. In Israel, the first day of Sukkot is observed as a full holiday, akin to Shabbat.

History and Significance

The festival has both historical and agricultural significance. Historically, it commemorates the period after the Exodus from Egypt when the Israelites lived in temporary shelters, called sukkahs, during their 40 years of wandering in the desert. Agriculturally, it marks the end of the harvest season and is a time to thank God for the bounty.

Traditions

• Building and Dwelling in Sukkah: Jews construct temporary booths or huts topped with branches (schach), which represent those that were used by their ancestors in the wilderness. Families eat meals in these structures, and some even sleep there during Sukkot.

• Four Species: The observance includes taking four species of plants — an etrog (citron), a lulav (palm frond), hadassim (myrtle branches), and aravot (willow branches) — and waving them in all directions to acknowledge God’s presence everywhere.

• Prayers and Blessings: Special prayers are recited during this period, including Hallel (praises) and additional prayer services such as Musaf.

• Holiday Meals: Festive meals are prepared to celebrate the occasion with family and friends.

What People Do

On Day 1 of Sukkot:

• Work is traditionally prohibited similar to Shabbat; hence many people refrain from engaging in work-related activities.
• Israelis will attend synagogue services where they perform rituals involving the Four Species.
• Families gather for festive meals inside their sukkahs.

In summary, Day 1 of Sukkot is marked by religious observances centered around gratitude for harvests past and dependence on divine protection. It is characterized by joyous feasting within sukkahs among family and community members.