It feels counterintuitive. We spent Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur creating sacred sanctuary. Congregants wrapped in the warmth of tallitot and swaying to the nostalgic melodies of holiday prayers. Deep reflection and engagement in life’s most difficult questions. We wove a cocoon and invited each Jew to feel safe enough to look inward and grapple with what last year offered.
And then comes Sukkot, and we are told to go outside—to shrug off the comforts of the synagogue and eat (and sleep) in a flimsy booth for the next week.
Why would our tradition command such a strong break in what we’ve tried so hard to build?
The sukkah reminds us to go out into the world, especially when the comforts of insularity beckon us closer—to explore paths we have yet to take and seek journeys ready for wandering. The strength of the sanctuary holds us up. The hearts of family, friends, and community bolster our curiosity, reminding us that the relationships we have built with God and each other support each step forward.
Do not be afraid. Go outside. Sukkot intentionally pushes us to leave the familiar. May our exploration help us discover what it is God intends for the next steps of our journey.
Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Nicole Guzik is senior rabbi at Sinai Temple. She can be reached at her Facebook page at Rabbi Nicole Guzik or on Instagram @rabbiguzik. For more writings, visit Rabbi Guzik’s blog section from Sinai Temple’s website.
