Sukkot (Day 3) in Israel

Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Feast of Booths, is a biblically mandated Jewish holiday that lasts for seven days in Israel (eight days outside of Israel). The third day of Sukkot continues the celebration and traditions observed from the first two days.

History and Significance:

• Historical Roots: Sukkot commemorates the forty years during which the children of Israel wandered in the desert, living in temporary shelters. It is also a harvest festival, marking the end of the agricultural year.
• Biblical Commandment: The holiday is grounded in Leviticus 23:42-43, where Jews are commanded to dwell in booths for seven days.

Traditions:

• Sukkah: The central tradition involves dwelling in a sukkah, a temporary hut with a roof made of branches, symbolizing the fragile dwellings of the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

• Four Species: Each day, except Shabbat, participants perform a waving ceremony with the Four Species (etrog [citron], lulav [palm frond], hadassim [myrtle branches], and aravot [willow branches]), which are bound together and represent different types of individuals and unity within Judaism.

Activities on Day 3:

• Dwelling and Eating: People continue to eat their meals inside the sukkah, and some may even sleep there if weather permits.

• Prayer Services: Regular prayer services are held with additional prayers for Sukkot. The Hallel (praises) is recited, along with special readings from the Torah.

• Hospitality: It is customary to invite guests into one's sukkah to share meals and celebrate together; this practice is known as ushpizin (Aramaic for "guests").

• Joyful Celebration: The holiday emphasizes joy and thanksgiving for God's protection and provision. Festive meals, singing, dancing, and rejoicing continue during this time.

Throughout Israel on Day 3 of Sukkot, you'll find cities and homes adorned with sukkahs as families engage in these age-old practices that have been passed down through generations.