Succot-Jewish Destiny

One of the reasons we celebrate the holiday of Succot, is that the Succah is meant to be a reminder of the ענני הכבוד, the Clouds of Glory, that traveled with the Jewish people in the desert.

These clouds, were in the merit of Aaron, brother of Moshe. They enveloped the Jewish nation, which provided them with safety and security.

According to the Ramchal in Derech Hashem, it was these clouds that elevated the Jewish people, and set them apart from the other nations. And it provided Israel with their ultimate destiny of raising the moral standard of the world. This was the Light of holiness that was transmitted by G-d to His people.

The Ramchal added that this concept was completed when each Jew took his Lulav and Etrog during Succot. G-d’s kingdom is strengthened as the nations of the earth, see this, and are in awe of the Jewish people.

This is the message of Succot. As the Jewish people are elevated, they better understand their role of being a “light unto the nations.” They become respected and admired by all of the nations of the earth.

Isn’t it ironic that Israel has been hosting, on Succot, a parade with participants from all over the world. They march through the streets of Jerusalem throwing candy and kisses, and proudly crying out, “We love you, Israel.”

Perhaps this is also related to the seventy bulls offered in the Temple on Succot. They were meant to include the seventy nations of the world.

Let us hope that Succot fulfills its purpose of light and holiness for the entire world.