Succot in the Temple

During the time of the Temple, one of the highlights was the ceremony known as Simchat Beit Hashoeva, “The Rejoicing at the Place of the Water Drawing.” The Talmud mentions that one who has not witnessed this ceremony, has not seen a joyous occasion in his life.

The ceremony involved taking water from the creek below the Temple. At the top of the altar, the Kohein would pour water and wine at the same time. This was accompanied with instruments playing, and the Shofar sounded.

The festivities were held in the women’s section of the Temple. The young Kohanim would ascend four pillars, and would light them with worn out garments of the Kohanim. All of Jerusalem was lit up by these pillars.

The Talmud in Masechet Succah, describes the festivities. “Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Hanania stated: ‘When we used to rejoice at the place of the Water Drawing, our eyes saw no sleep. How was this? The first hour was occupied with the daily morning sacrifice; from there we proceeded to prayers; from the prayers, to the additional Mussaf sacrifice; then to the House of Study; then the eating and drinking; then the afternoon prayer; then the daily evening sacrifice; and after that, the rejoicing at the place of the Water-Drawing all night.”

This is another example as to how the Beit Hamikdash was the focal point of Jewish life. It symbolized the special bond between G-d and the Jewish people.

The pilgrimage festivals were extremely uplifting. The connection to this holiness was meant to carry the Jewish people throughout the long, dark winter.

They would get their spiritual batteries recharged during their next visit on Pesach. It is understandable how the destruction of our two Temples, caused Jews to go astray from true Torah values. The Temple served as a source of strength and hope. G-d’s Presence was felt in a very strong way. We must understand the loss, in order to pray for its rebuilding. May that time come speedily in our time.