Third Day of Sukkot

What Is Third Day of Sukkot?

The Third Day of Sukkot is an integral part of the seven-day Jewish festival of Sukkot, observed by Jewish communities around the world. Falling on the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, it is one of the “Chol HaMoed” or “intermediate days” of the festival. These days follow the initial holy days of Sukkot, which are marked by strict religious observances similar to Shabbat.

Sukkot itself serves a dual purpose: it commemorates the forty years the Israelites spent wandering in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt, dwelling in temporary shelters. Concurrently, it is a harvest festival, celebrating the gathering of produce from the land of Israel. On the Third Day, these core themes continue to be central to the observance.

History and Origins of Third Day of Sukkot

The origins of Sukkot and, by extension, its intermediate days like the Third Day, are found in the Torah. The Book of Leviticus (Chapter 23, Verses 33-43) commands the observance of Sukkot, instructing the Israelites to dwell in booths (sukkot) for seven days. This act is explicitly linked to God’s provision and protection during their journey through the desert.

The agricultural aspect of Sukkot also has ancient roots, aligning with the autumn harvest season in ancient Israel. It is one of the three “Pilgrimage Festivals” (Shalosh Regalim) when historically, Jewish people would travel to Jerusalem to offer sacrifices at the Temple. The “Third Day” is not specifically singled out in the Torah for unique observances beyond those applicable to the general festival, but rather it forms part of the ongoing celebration of Sukkot. During the intermediate days (Chol HaMoed), a balance is struck between holiday joy and permissible activities, differentiating them from the more stringent initial and concluding holy days.

How Third Day of Sukkot Is Celebrated

Celebrations on the Third Day of Sukkot, as with other Chol HaMoed days, focus on the fundamental practices of the festival while allowing for a more relaxed approach compared to the first two days. The central observance remains dwelling in the sukkah, a temporary booth constructed for the holiday.

General Observances

Jewish people are commanded to eat their meals, and ideally sleep, within the sukkah. This practice reinforces the theme of humility and reliance on divine protection. Another prominent ritual is the waving of the “Four Species” (Arba Minim): a lulav (palm frond), etrog (citron), hadass (myrtle branches), and aravah (willow branches). These are held together and waved in six directions during daily prayers, symbolising unity and praising God for the bounty of the earth. Special Hallel prayers are recited in synagogues, and communal processions known as Hoshanot take place, during which congregants circle the synagogue holding the Four Species while reciting specific supplications. While work is generally permitted on Chol HaMoed, unnecessary labour or business transactions are typically avoided, and many people dedicate time to family gatherings or study.

Observances in Israel

In Israel, the intermediate days of Sukkot, including the Third Day, are officially recognised as semi-holidays. While not a full public holiday like the first day, many businesses operate on reduced hours, and schools are typically closed. Public transportation may run on a modified schedule. Israeli families often use these days for recreational activities, such as visiting national parks, museums, or other attractions, often having their lunches in public sukkahs. There is a palpable holiday atmosphere throughout the country, with sukkahs visible on balconies, in gardens, and in public spaces.

Observances in the Diaspora

Outside Israel, the Third Day of Sukkot is not a public holiday. Observances are primarily religious and community-focused. Jewish schools often close for Sukkot, allowing families to observe the festival together. Synagogue attendance for morning services, which include the waving of the Four Species and special prayers, is common. Meals are typically eaten in a sukkah, either at home or in a communal sukkah provided by a synagogue or community centre. Work and other daily activities generally proceed, with individuals balancing their professional and personal commitments with holiday observances.

When Is Third Day of Sukkot?

The Third Day of Sukkot always falls on the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei. This date is determined by the lunisolar Hebrew calendar, which means its corresponding date on the Gregorian calendar varies each year.

The festival of Sukkot begins on the 15th of Tishrei and lasts for seven days. The first day of Sukkot (15th Tishrei) is a full holy day, similar to Shabbat, where most forms of work are prohibited. In the Diaspora, the second day (16th Tishrei) is also observed as a full holy day. The subsequent five days (17th to 21st Tishrei) are Chol HaMoed, the intermediate days, with the Third Day of Sukkot being the second of these intermediate days. Following Sukkot are the festivals of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, which conclude the holiday season. The Gregorian dates for the Third Day of Sukkot typically fall in late September or October.

Third Day of Sukkot Key Facts