Today marks the first evening of Sukkot, known as the ‘Festival of Booths’. Sukkot is a happy and festive holiday in the Jewish calendar.
During Sukkot, we traditionally bundle together four plants mentioned in the Torah: The Etrog (citron fruit), Lulav (frond of date palm) Hadass (myrtle bough) and Aravah (willow branch) – and wave them in the Sukkah as symbolic allusions to a Jew’s service of G-d.
Some scholars note that the binding of the four species symbolizes our desire to unite the four “types” of humans in service of God.
The Sukkah itself reminds us of our fragility and invites us out of our homes, recognizing that there are forces beyond our control, and despite the challenges, we can still find ways to rejoice in what we have.
These days, in our community, our sector, province and beyond we are asked to come together and act in unison to overcome the challenges ahead of us – for the betterment of all humankind.
Reena’s staff, individuals and families are working in unison, day and night, to protect each other’s health – and with great success.
My heartfelt gratitude to all of you.
I want to wish you a safe and peaceful weekend and a happy Sukkot.
Bryan Keshen, CEO
Reena
