Simchat Torah or Simhat Torah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings, and the beginning of a new cycle.
Simchat Torah is Hebrew for “the joy of Torah ” or “rejoicing with the Torah ”, it is a celebration often accompanied by dancing and singing usually held on the last day of Sukkot. This rejoicing characteristic of the Simchat Torah expresses the Jewish love of Torah and study. Simchat Torah is observed from the 22nd to the 23rd of Tishrei.
How is Simchat Torah Celebrated?
Simchat Torah celebrations involve reading the last Parashah (portion) of the book of Deuteronomy followed by the first Parashah of the book of Genesis during the morning. This custom is followed by taking all the Torah scrolls out of the ark in the synagogue and spending the evening dancing, singing, and rejoicing. The scrolls are carried around the sanctuary in seven circles called Hakafot. It is also a common practice in some countries for people to parade around the synagogue with the Torah scrolls, while children waving flags follow the parade.
Origin and History
Simchat Torah was originally observed on the second day of Shemini Atzeret, and its significance as a celebration was only recently acknowledged. Also, the celebration of the Simchat Torah does not appear in the Bible like Sukkot and Shemini Atzeret.
However, aspects of rejoicing and regular reading of the Torah do appear in the book of Deuteronomy. For example, Deuteronomy 16 commands the Israelites to “rejoice” in the festival of booths. In Deuteronomy 31, Moses commands the priests to read the law or Torah, to all of Israel during Sukkot.
Traditional Customs and Practices
Hakafot
It is the tradition of carrying sacred scrolls around the sanctuary in seven circles. Though only seven circles are required, the dancing and celebrating usually go on much longer.
During this tradition of carrying the scrolls, people believe they become the feet of the scroll so that the scrolls can take part in the dancing and the celebrations. It is also a part of the custom to drink alcohol on the holiday. Many take the Torah scrolls out on the streets and celebrate publicly by dancing and singing, showing off their Jewish pride.
Reading From the Last Portion of Deuteronomy
During the morning of the holiday, the last parashah( section) of the book of Deuteronomy is read out in the synagogue, which is followed by the first parashah of the book of Genesis. This connects the ending of the reading cycle and the beginning of the new one.
Aliyah
It is the practice of inviting the worshippers to read a segment of the Torah and recite a special prayer at the altar (bimah).
The Role of Children
The children are invited for a special Aliyah during Simchat Torah which is called HaNe’arim. During this rite, the children will have a prayer shawl or tallit spread over their heads, and then Jacob’s blessing is read.
What kinds of Foods are Eaten On Simchat Torah?
There aren’t many traditional foods for Simchat Torah, but cabbage is a popular ingredient thanks to its cylindrical shape, which represents the Torah scrolls. Stuffed cabbages and blintzes are popular foods for traditional Ashkenazi Simchat Torah. Another popular dish is Torah shaped cookies.
What is the Proper Greeting for Simchat Torah?
“Chag Sameach” is the greeting for Simchat Torah which means “Happy Holiday”. Simchat Torah is an important holiday for the Jewish people, commemorating the end of the old reading cycle and the commencement of the new one. It is an important fun-filled holiday that both children and adults enjoy. This year Simchat Torah falls on the 7th and 8th of October.
FAQs
Q: How is Simchat Torah celebrated around the world?
A: Simchat Torah is celebrated in synagogues and Jewish communities around the world. It is a joyous holiday where people dance and sing to celebrate the completion of the annual cycle of Torah readings and the beginning of a new one. In some communities, people will parade around the synagogue with Torah scrolls, and children may wave flags or carry miniature Torah scrolls. Many communities will also have festive meals and social gatherings.
Q: Why is Simchat Torah celebrated?
A: Simchat Torah is celebrated to mark the completion of the annual cycle of Torah readings and the beginning of a new one. The Torah is the most sacred text in Judaism, and reading it is considered a great honor and responsibility. Simchat Torah celebrates the ongoing study and interpretation of the Torah and the Jewish tradition.
Q: Is fasting a part of the Simchat Torah festival?
A: No, fasting is not a part of the Simchat Torah festival. It is the opposite – it is a time of celebration and feasting.
Q: What are the special customs followed during Simchat Torah?
A: One of the most popular customs during the Simchat Torah is Hakafot, which involves circling the synagogue with Torah scrolls and singing and dancing. Another custom is to unroll the entire Torah scroll and read the last portion of Deuteronomy and the first portion of Genesis to symbolize the continuous cycle of Torah study. Many communities will also hold special Torah study sessions and classes during the holiday. Additionally, some communities have the custom of giving candy or treats to children during the Hakafot or at the end of the holiday as a way of celebrating and spreading joy.
