Shemini Atzeret

Shemini Atzeret History

Shemini Atzeret takes place on the eighth day following the week-long holiday of Sukkot. It is a separate holiday from Sukkot and has its unique significance, serving as the final celebration of the holiday season. In Israel, this day is combined with Simchat Torah, a joyous festival that marks the conclusion of the annual Torah reading cycle.

The origin of Shemini Atzeret can be traced back to biblical times, mentioned in Leviticus and Numbers as an additional day of assembly after the conclusion of Sukkot. Though originally functioning as a subtle extension of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret has evolved and now addresses themes of divine protection, nature, and gratitude for the year's bounty. For the Jewish community in the United Kingdom, the day also affirms their connection to their religious heritage and promotes unity among Jewish people worldwide.

In the United Kingdom, observance of Shemini Atzeret typically involves participation in special synagogue services that include prayers for rain, remembering the departed, and the Torah cycle completion. Traditionally, some British Jews also partake in festive meals and family gatherings during this time. The date of Shemini Atzeret depends on the Hebrew calendar and typically falls in October. Shemini Atzeret is observed on October 6th, 2023.

Shemini Atzeret (Begins) facts

• The Biblical book of Nehemiah (verse 8:18) mentions how all men in Jerusalem gathered at the Holy Temple to hear the Torah on the day of Shemini Atzeret.
• Shemini Atzeret is observed in Orthodox communities with candle lighting in the evening, Kiddush (sanctification over wine) and two challah breads. This is representative of all Jewish High Festivals and an evening and morning festive meal. Two Challah breads are used to commemorate the Sabbath in the wilderness. During this time Manna (edible substance that God provided for Israelites during time in the desert) fell from Heaven in a double portion on Friday, so that on the Sabbath day, the Israelites, did not need to perform the work of gathering Manna.
• Often an additional service after the morning service is held in Orthodox Synagogues. Hallel (Psalms with praise) is recited. Observant Jews do not work on this day.
• In the late 1700s, Britain's large and flourishing Jewish Sephardi community—composed of Jews from Spanish and Portuguese descent—established what is known today as the S&P Sephardi Community. They celebrate Shemini Atzeret according to Sephardi traditions which can differ from Ashkenazi practices.
• Special kiddush (sanctification of the day over wine) is recited and two challah breads are used for the blessing over the bread in festive meals to honour the holiday.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Shemini Atzeret

Top things to do in the UK for Shemini Atzeret

• On Shmini Atzeret, it is customary for Orthodox Jews to spend an 'extra day with God' and postpone their return to work and to mundane tasks.
• Visit Jewish Community Centers (JCC) such as JW3 in London or the Manchester Jewish Community Centre. During Jewish holidays, these centers may host events, workshops, or activities related to the holiday.
• Attend services at local synagogues like the United Synagogue in London, Central Manchester Synagogue, or Birmingham Central Synagogue. Many synagogues hold special prayers and Torah readings for Shemini Atzeret.

Shemini Atzeret references