Joy & Sukkot!
Need some joy?
In the sacred cycle of the year, there’s a holiday that resonates deeply with joy. It’s called Sukkot—yes, Sukkot—a name that might sound unfamiliar to some, but the spirit behind it is universal. Sukkot means “booths” or “tents” and points to a profound spiritual practice of gratitude, community, and joy. Whether you come from a Christian, Jewish, or secular background—or anywhere in between—the themes of this holiday echo across humanity. (Sukkot is a 7-day celebration, culminating the fall Jewish holidays ending Oct. 23, 2024.)
The essence of Sukkot, also known as the "Season of Our Joy" (z’man simchateinu), is a communal reminder to pause and celebrate life, even amidst uncertainty. Ancient wisdom tells us that joy isn’t just about fleeting happiness; it’s something deeper. It’s the realization that even in life’s temporary shelters—our metaphoric “tents”—there’s meaning, shelter, and hope.
Sukkot originates from the Jewish tradition, yet its lessons are expansive. It’s about journeying through life with an awareness of the Divine, the earth’s gifts, and the connections between us all.
Imagine this: Sukkot was a week-long, joy-filled festival in Jerusalem, a spiritual extravaganza that transcended differences, welcoming people from every walk of life. Ancient rabbis said you hadn’t experienced real joy until you had witnessed this celebration. The roots of this festival, found in the Bible (Leviticus 23), invite everyone to pause, reflect, and rejoice in the blessings of life.
So, what does this ancient festival offer us today?
Here are a few ways that Sukkot’s wisdom can be embraced by anyone, no matter where you’re coming from:
A Reminder of Our Shared Journey: Sukkot invites us to remember the journeys we all take, both literal and spiritual. It’s a celebration of shelter and protection, whether seen as Divine presence, community care, or the Earth itself providing for us. We’ve all known times of wandering or transition, and Sukkot helps us remember that we are never alone in these times.
Living Simply and With Gratitude: The practice of living in temporary structures, like the sukkah (tent), reminds us that life itself is fragile and temporary, but also beautiful in its simplicity. It’s a time to step outside the walls of routine and reflect on what truly matters—love, connection, and shared experience. This can resonate deeply with those who value mindfulness or environmental consciousness.
Honoring the Earth’s Abundance: Sukkot is a harvest festival, a time to acknowledge the cycles of nature and the gifts we receive from the earth. Whether or not you’re a farmer, we all depend on the planet’s resources. Sukkot encourages us to offer thanks for the food, water, and sun that sustain us—gifts that too often go unnoticed.
The Power of Water and Light: In many faiths, water symbolizes life, cleansing, and renewal. Sukkot includes rituals that connect people to the life-giving power of water, just as some faiths see light as a symbol of wisdom, compassion, and divine guidance. These metaphors invite us to consider how we can bring light to others and be a source of refreshment and renewal.
Inclusive Community: At the heart of Sukkot is radical inclusivity. In ancient times, people were commanded to rejoice with their families, friends, servants, strangers, and even those who might typically be marginalized. This call to inclusion reminds us of the strength found in diversity. Today, we can use this time to reach out to neighbors, build bridges, and strengthen our communities.
Choosing Joy in a Cynical World: Joy isn’t always easy to find, especially when the world feels heavy. Yet Sukkot challenges us to focus on gratitude and choose joy, even when it feels countercultural. Imagine what would happen if, for one week, we all made an effort to focus on joy, connection, and what’s good in the world. It could transform our outlook—and ripple out to those around us.
A Shared Future: Sukkot also points us to a shared vision of a better world, where all people are gathered together in peace. Whatever your spiritual background, Sukkot calls us to imagine and work toward a world where justice, compassion, and joy are the common language of humanity.
How can you celebrate Sukkot?
You don’t have to build a tent or follow specific rituals to embrace the spirit of Sukkot. Here are some simple ways to bring more joy and connection into your life:
Get outside! Whether it’s a picnic, a walk under the stars, or a meal in your backyard, take time to appreciate nature’s beauty.
Be present with your loved ones. Invite family, friends, or neighbors over for a meal. Share stories, express gratitude, and reflect on what brings you joy.
Engage in acts of kindness. Reach out to someone who might be feeling isolated or stressed. Bring them into your circle of joy, even if it’s just through a phone call or a small gesture.
Choose gratitude. Take a moment each day to acknowledge what you’re thankful for. Even in difficult times, there’s always something to appreciate.
Sukkot is a season of joy, rooted in the tradition of ancient wisdom but open to all. Whether you’re celebrating with a full tent or just a joyful heart, may this season remind you of the beauty of life’s journey, the power of community, and the deep wellspring of joy that lives within each of us.
by Ryan Miller