Sukkot is the holiday in memory of the forty years of wandering in the desert of the Israelites led from Egypt. They were protected by clouds of glory, not to let the sun burn them, so now we are building huts giving the shadow. This is a reminder of the miracles performed in Egypt and that ended with giving of the Torah at the Sinai Mounting. It is commanded by Torah to rejoice in the Sukkot.

Throughout the holiday week, the joy and fun did not leave all members of the Jewish community including the youngest and those who are in their eighties. Children felt that they were given one more week of a fall vacation - it was another chance to get together and have fun. The kids were told about the Exodus and explained why Sukkot is important for all Jews. The explanations were in an easy form with the help of the cartoon "The Prince of Egypt". It is important to ensure a proper understanding of the rituals of every Jewish holiday while the kids are still like young trees that can be straightened and be given any desired shape. The kids were instructed in an entertaining form how to construct a hut and about the four mandatory plant species that are indispensable attributes of Sukkot.

Older guys with moms, dads and grandparents were enjoying the holiday in the countryside - a group of community members went for an overnight stay the recreation center. It was great! There was a grove in the golden decoration, Maccabiahda Games, and dancing. And then, we gathered at a big festively laid table as one family with special prayers, candles, and festive meal.

The laws and techniques of hut construction were of particular interest. For example, why the cover - "shah" should be made only from plant material? Why dishes are filled with food at home and then brought to the sukkah? What should I do on the last day of Sukkot so that my fate to be sweet?

There were a lot of jokes, charades, quizzes, lots of laughter and joy. The weather was kind to us and the photo and video cameras were always in use. Come to Hesed "Astana" to look at our board with photographs from Sukkot!

Ludmila Tsymbalyuk