Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Booths or the Feast of Tabernacles, began last night. The joyous celebration commemorates the temporary shelters in which the Israelites lived while wandering the desert for 40 years after the exodus from Egypt. To mark the occasion, Jews build replicas of these hut-like structures, where they take their meals and sometimes sleep overnight. This time is a chance for Jews to reflect with gratitude and remember the gifts of peace, shelter, and sustenance. By moving into this symbolic, impermanent dwelling, believers are reminded that provision and comfort are divinely bestowed, thus reaffirming dependence on God.

On the heels of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, both of which are observed in an intensely personal way, Sukkot joyfully brings the community back together with a strong emphasis on unity. There is food, laughter, and music; whatever done is done together. The intimate reflection of the High Holy Days prepares individuals to reconnect with their friends and family.

The Wailin’ Jennys capture this idea in their song “One Voice.” While it wasn’t written with Sukkot in mind, the progression of adding one voice at a time highlights each unique offering, yet the satisfaction of joining together as one — knowing that our lives are as fleeting as a shelter in the desert:

This is the sound of all of us
Singing with love and the will to trust
Leave the rest behind, it will turn to dust
This is the sound of all of us

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