Sukkot Traditions: From First Night Meal to Jerusalem Pilgrimage

The Jewish holiday of Sukkot, following the High Holy Days, symbolizes a special closeness between God and the Jewish people, often described as being under God's protective embrace. This theme is reflected in the practice of dwelling in the sukkah, a temporary hut, which represents this divine shelter. The holiday's observance includes specific laws and customs, such as the mandatory meal in the sukkah on the first night, considerations for rain, and the pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

The spiritual significance of the sukkah is rooted in biblical and mystical texts, illustrating God's protection over Israel. This concept is further elaborated by Rabbi Isaac Luria, who explained the sukkah's structure as resembling a divine embrace. The joy of Sukkot stems from this closeness to God, as commanded by the Torah's injunction to "rejoice in your festival."

Observant Jews are commanded to eat in the sukkah on the first night of Sukkot, a requirement derived from the Passover commandment of eating matzah. This involves eating a specific measure of bread (kezayit) within a set timeframe after nightfall and before midnight. Special considerations apply to those with dietary restrictions or health issues, who should consult a rabbi. If rain prevents eating in the sukkah on the first night, one may eat their main meal indoors after reciting blessings, but should return to the sukkah if the rain stops to fulfill additional requirements.

To maintain an appetite for the first night's meal, it is customary to refrain from eating bread and baked goods made from the five grains from midday onwards on the eve of Sukkot. Lighter foods like fruits and vegetables are permissible in moderation.

During the intermediate days of Sukkot (Chol HaMoed), the laws regarding travel and the sukkah are discussed. While travelers are generally exempt from dwelling in the sukkah while on the road, there is a debate among rabbinic authorities whether leisure travel, such as tourism, qualifies for this exemption. The prevailing view encourages planning trips to allow for sukkah observance.

Historically, the pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Temple Mount during the festivals was a central commandment. Although the Temple is destroyed, many Jews continue the tradition of visiting Jerusalem, particularly the Western Wall, as a sign of devotion and longing for the Temple's rebuilding. This practice dates back to ancient times, with prominent rabbis making the journey.

Regarding the "Four Species" (lulav, etrog, myrtle, and willow) used during Sukkot, the commandment to take them for seven days was originally specific to the Temple. After the Temple's destruction, the Sages extended this practice to all of Israel for seven days. Some traditions hold that ancient Jerusalem is considered equivalent to the Temple in this regard, leading some to take the Four Species again in Jerusalem's Old City, particularly at the Western Wall, as an added act of devotion.