It’s Not Too Early to Think About Sukkot

It’s not even Rosh Hashanah yet, but I feel compelled to write to you about Sukkot. To ensure we have enough time to properly prepare, we need to order our lulav and etrog sets well in advance. I encourage you to purchase a lulav and etrog set. These symbols, which we shake in celebration during Sukkot, hold deep spiritual significance that can enrich both our personal and communal observance of the holiday.

In ancient times, these species were used to pray for and thank God for the abundant crops we hoped for during the Fall harvest. But they also carry deep metaphorical meaning. For example, the lulav (palm branch), etrog (citron), hadassim (myrtle branches), and aravot (willow branches) represent different types of Jews, each with their unique qualities.

• The etrog, which has both taste and fragrance, symbolizes those who are rich in both Torah knowledge and good deeds.

• The lulav, from the date palm that bears fruit but has no fragrance, represents those who possess Torah knowledge but may struggle with action.

• The myrtle, with its sweet fragrance but no fruit, symbolizes those who focus on good deeds but may lack in study.

• The willow, which has neither taste nor fragrance, represents those who are still finding their way in both Torah and mitzvot. 

Yet, we bind all four species together when we shake them, symbolizing the unity of the Jewish people. Just as the lulav and etrog cannot fulfill their purpose without being joined together, so too our community thrives when all its members—regardless of background, knowledge, or level of observance—stand together.

By purchasing a lulav and etrog, you are not just participating in a mitzvah; you are actively binding yourself to the unity and beauty of our people. This year, I invite you to embrace this mitzvah with joy, bringing the spirit of Sukkot into your home and our community. Let’s all share in the celebration of this sacred time together.

You can find the form to purchase your lulav and etrog among the High Holiday forms that were mailed to you, or you can go online to https://midbarkodeshtemple.shulcloud.com/form/high-holidays-5785.html

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and sweet New Year. 

Shabbat Shalom, 

Rabbi Bradley Tecktiel