Holiday of Mitzvot

The holiday of Succot is the holiday that is known as the one filled with Mitzvot. It surpasses Pesach and Shavuot with the number of commandments possible to observe.

These Mitzvot are divided up into different categories. It is very clear that two of the Mitzvot are directly of a Torah origin. The Torah clearly gives the command to dwell in a Succah for seven days.

Similarly, the Torah is clear that we are to take a citrus fruit known as the “Etrog.” In addition, the Torah is clear that we also take a palm branch with myrtle and willow branches. These make up the ארבעה מינים? ץ, or Four Species.

The ceremony of water libations accompanied with great celebration, known as שמחת בית השואבה, falls under the category of Halacha L’Moshe Misinai, given directly from Moshe Rabbeinu on Mount Sinai. This means it has the status of a Torah law even though not written explicitly in the Torah.

The taking of the willow branches on Hoshana Raba, the seventh day of Succot is a Mitzva that has its origins in the prophets. This gives it the status of “Asmachta,” a very strong rabbinic law.

The final command that is unique to Succot is the obligation to rejoice, ושמחת בחגך. There is no similar command on Pesach or Shavuot. The observance of the abundant Mitzvot of Succot, makes “rejoicing,” that much easier.