Jewish Traditions: Sukkot Customs Offer Blessings for Health and Fertility

As the Jewish holiday of Sukkot begins, traditions abound regarding the "segulot," or spiritual remedies, associated with the holiday. Many describe sitting in the Sukkah, the temporary dwelling used during Sukkot, as akin to sitting under a wedding canopy, enveloped by divine presence. The commandment to dwell in the Sukkah is considered a segulah for a long life.

Some customs involve hanging items in the Sukkah to absorb its sanctity, with the intention of using them throughout the year. For instance, a bottle of olive oil hung in the Sukkah until the holiday's end is later used to light Hanukkah candles. Similarly, bottles of wine, including one designated kosher for Passover, are used for Passover Seder and Purim feasts. Wheat and barley hung in the Sukkah are used in Shabbat stews, and a jar of honey is saved for Shavuot, referencing the biblical verse "Honey and milk are under your tongue."

Specific fruits are also imbued with special properties. Etrogim, typically used during Sukkot, are made into jam for Tu B'Shvat, believed to be a segulah for "zera kayama" (lasting offspring) and easy childbirth. Pomegranates hung in the Sukkah are also considered a segulah for lasting offspring, with some hanging seven pomegranates in seven different Sukkahs and later distributing their juice. Apples eaten after Sukkot are thought to be a segulah for complete healing.

During Sukkot, it is customary to welcome seven spiritual guests, known as the "Ushpizin" (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Aaron, Joseph, and David), one for each day of the holiday. Some observe this by lighting a candle each day in honor of the day's specific Ushpiz.