The week-long festival of Sukkot is called the “season of our rejoicing.” During this time, we dwell in booths in fulfillment of God’s commandment (Leviticus 23:42-43), and we do so with celebration and joy.
The Chofetz Chaim (Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan, 1838-1933) asked, “Why is Sukkot seven days, while Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur come to a total of only three?” His answer: it’s to teach us that our mood should generally be one of happiness (like Sukkot) and not constant fear (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.)
Image: Litvak sukkah, 2023/5784