Rabbi's Plea and Ancient Siege Highlight Sukkot Resilience

A historical account details the 1742 siege of Tiberias by the governor of Damascus, Suleiman al-Adham, against the independent ruler of the Galilee, Daher al-Omar. The narrative begins with a warning delivered to Rabbi Chaim Abulafia in Tiberias by Jewish bankers in Damascus, informing him of the impending attack. The governor planned to destroy the city's walls and behead al-Omar.

Despite the dire warning and the ongoing preparations for the Sukkot holiday, al-Omar initially dismissed the threat, believing it to be a ruse. Rabbi Abulafia, who had recently returned to Tiberias to re-establish the Jewish community at al-Omar's request, persisted in his efforts to convince al-Omar of the danger. The siege lasted 83 days, during which the city was bombarded, though the projectiles largely fell harmlessly.

The article connects this historical event to the Jewish concept of rejoicing during Sukkot, particularly the "Simchat Beit HaShoeva" (Rejoicing of the Water Drawing Ceremony). The author reflects on the difficulty of maintaining joy amidst hardship, especially after the events of October 7th, but ultimately emphasizes the importance of adhering to the mitzvah of joy.

During the siege, the Jewish community faced challenges in observing Sukkot traditions, such as obtaining the Four Species. However, with the clandestine assistance of one of the bankers, they managed to procure the necessary items. The community, led by Rabbi Abulafia, decided to celebrate the holiday, symbolizing resilience and faith even under duress.

The siege ended when the Damascene governor was forced to leave to fulfill a pilgrimage to Mecca. Although he planned a subsequent attack, he died of illness before he could execute it, thus saving the city. The story serves as a historical testament to the perseverance of the Jewish community in Tiberias.