Biblical Feast

Sukkot is a joyful celebration that honors a time of dwelling in temporary shelters, symbolizing trust and dependence on protection beyond oneself. It originated as a way to remember and appreciate a period of journeying and vulnerability, emphasizing themes of gratitude, hospitality, and community. The act of building and living in a simple, open shelter invites reflection on the balance between security and openness, encouraging a connection with nature and a reminder of life’s fragility. It also serves as a time to give thanks for provision and abundance, fostering a spirit of celebration and renewal. 

Instruction: Leviticus 23:42-43 (CJB)

You are to live in sukkot for seven days; every citizen of Isra’el is to live in a sukkah,  43 so that generation after generation of you will know that I made the people of Isra’el live in sukkot when I brought them out of the land of Egypt; I am Adonai your God.

Additional verses:

•  Leviticus 23:33-44 
•  Numbers 29:12-40 
•  Deuteronomy 16:13-17 
•  Zechariah 14:16-19 
•  Nehemiah 8:14-18 
•  John 7:2-14  
•  John 7:37-39  

Sukkot originally commemorated the Israelites living in temporary shelters during their wilderness journey, reminding God’s people to rely on His protection and provision. Prophetically, this feast points forward to a future time when Jesus will fully dwell (tabernacle) with His people, fulfilling God’s promise to live among humanity.

This prophecy has not yet been fully realized but is described in Scripture, especially in Revelation 21:3, where God’s presence is seen dwelling with His people forever. The feast symbolizes the ultimate restoration of creation, a time of peace, joy, and abundant blessings. It also represents the great spiritual harvest when all nations will gather to worship God and live in harmony under His reign.

Believers can expect this future fulfillment to bring the complete restoration of God’s kingdom, a joyful celebration of God’s presence, provision, and eternal fellowship with His people. The Feast of Tabernacles invites us to anticipate the day when heaven and earth are united, and God’s glory fills all creation.

Traditional observation varies between Orthodox Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity; and these differences should be explored. The following is a simple way to observe at home: 

• Build and dwell in a sukkah: Create a temporary shelter with natural materials like branches or leaves, and spend time eating, relaxing, or even sleeping inside it to connect with the theme of temporary dwelling.
   
• Gather with others: Share meals or moments in the sukkah with family, friends, or community to foster hospitality and celebration.
   
• Wave the Four Species: If accessible, hold and wave the four symbolic plants (etrog, lulav, hadas, and aravah) as part of the tradition to express gratitude and unity.
   
• Express gratitude: Take time to reflect on and give thanks for provision, protection, and the blessings of life.
   
• Celebrate joyfully: Engage in singing, storytelling, or other joyful activities to honor the festive nature of the time.

Sukkot is observed from the 15th to the 21st day of the seventh month, Tishrei.

2026 Observation date:

• Begins at sundown on Sunday, September 27, 2026
• Ends at sundown on Sunday, October 4, 2026