Top Rabbi Inspects Etrogs for Sukkot Despite Rabbinical Status of Mitzvah

Rabbi Baruch Dov Povarsky, the senior member of the Council of Torah Sages, meticulously inspected etrogs and other "Four Species" for the upcoming Sukkot holiday on Wednesday. The inspection took place at his residence in Bnei Brak, where several etrogs were presented for his selection.

For decades, Rabbi Povarsky has dedicated the days leading up to Sukkot to carefully examining the ritual items and ensuring their adherence to religious requirements. This tradition is followed by many prominent rabbis, who place special emphasis on the condition of the etrog, which must be closed and intact.

This year, Sukkot begins on a Monday, meaning the first day of the holiday does not fall on Shabbat. According to Jewish law, when the first day of Sukkot occurs on a weekday, the commandment of taking the etrog and lulav is considered rabbinical rather than a direct biblical commandment. However, as stated by Rabbi Povarsky's household, his devotion to the mitzvah and his commitment to its proper observance remain unchanged.

"Even though this year the mitzvah is not from the Torah, nevertheless the rabbi's devotion to the mitzvah remains as it has been all these years, and he is meticulous in its beautiful observance," a household member told "Kikar HaShabbat."