Fourth Day of Sukkot

What Is the Fourth Day of Sukkot?

The Fourth Day of Sukkot is an integral part of the week-long Jewish festival of Sukkot, often referred to as the Festival of Booths or Tabernacles. This day falls within the period known as Chol HaMoed, meaning “intermediate days of the festival.” While the first two days of Sukkot are full festival days with prohibitions on work, the Fourth Day, like the other Chol HaMoed days, allows for many regular activities while maintaining the primary observances of the festival.

During this day, Jewish communities globally continue to commemorate the biblical narrative of the Israelites dwelling in temporary shelters during their 40-year sojourn in the wilderness after the Exodus from Egypt. It also serves as a harvest festival, expressing gratitude for agricultural abundance. The practices observed on this day reinforce the central themes of reliance on divine providence and joy.

History and Origins of the Fourth Day of Sukkot

The festival of Sukkot, from which the Fourth Day derives its context, has its origins in the Torah. The book of Leviticus (Chapter 23, Verses 33-43) commands its observance, detailing the construction of temporary dwellings (sukkot) and the gathering of the Arba Minim (Four Species: palm, myrtle, willow, and citron). The festival was established as a multi-faceted commemoration.

Historically, Sukkot served a dual purpose: a historical remembrance and an agricultural celebration. It recalls the flimsy booths in which the Israelites resided during their desert wanderings, symbolising vulnerability and reliance on divine protection. Concurrently, it marked the conclusion of the harvest season in ancient Israel, offering a period of thanksgiving for the crops. The Chol HaMoed days, including the Fourth Day, were developed to allow for necessary agricultural work to continue during the harvest period while still observing the core tenets of the festival. This balance ensured that the religious obligations did not unduly hinder the practical necessities of the agrarian society.

How the Fourth Day of Sukkot Is Celebrated

The observance of the Fourth Day of Sukkot revolves around the core commandments of the festival, adapted for an intermediate day. The central practice remains dwelling and eating in the sukkah, a temporary booth constructed outdoors. Families continue to partake in meals within the sukkah, and many individuals also sleep in them, weather permitting, throughout the duration of Sukkot. This act serves as a physical reminder of the temporary dwellings of the Israelites and a lesson in humility and reliance on something beyond permanent structures.

Another key observance is the daily use of the Arba Minim, or Four Species. These consist of a lulav (date palm frond), three hadassim (myrtle branches), two aravot (willow branches), and an etrog (citron). Each morning, except on the Sabbath, these species are held together and waved in specific directions during the Hallel prayer as an expression of joy and unity. Special prayers, known as Hoshanot, are also recited, often involving circumambulations of the synagogue bimah (platform) with the Four Species.

Unlike the first two days of Sukkot, the Fourth Day is a Chol HaMoed day, meaning that most forms of work are permitted, though unnecessary labour is often avoided. This distinction allows individuals to attend to their livelihoods and daily responsibilities while still maintaining the festive atmosphere and religious practices. Celebrations on this day often include family gatherings, festive meals, and study sessions, all conducted with the joyous spirit characteristic of Sukkot.

Celebrations in Israel

In Israel, the entire Sukkot week is recognised as a national holiday period. While the first day is a full public holiday with most businesses closed, the Chol HaMoed days, including the Fourth Day, operate under modified schedules. Government offices, banks, and schools often close early or have reduced operating hours. Many Israelis take advantage of this time for family outings, hiking, and travel within the country, often visiting friends and relatives in their sukkot. Public events and concerts are also common during this period, contributing to a vibrant holiday atmosphere across the country.

When Is the Fourth Day of Sukkot?

The Fourth Day of Sukkot falls on the 18th day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei. Sukkot is a seven-day festival, commencing on the 15th of Tishrei. As the Hebrew calendar is a lunisolar calendar, its dates vary annually when converted to the Gregorian calendar.

The festival of Sukkot typically occurs in late September or early October. For instance, if Sukkot begins on the evening of 29th September, the Fourth Day of Sukkot would be observed on 2nd October. Its exact Gregorian date shifts each year, making it a moveable observance. The day always follows the third day of Sukkot and precedes the fifth day, continuing the Chol HaMoed period.

Fourth Day of Sukkot Key Facts