In this week’s Torah reading, we are commanded: “You shall dwell in sukkot for seven days…so that your generations may
know” (Vayikra 23:42–43). We are those generations.
The Jewish life we live today is, in many ways, the fruit of the emunah, mesirus nefesh, and Torah observance of those who came before us. They planted so that we could inherit not only a tradition, but a living covenant with HaKadosh Baruch Hu. And now, the responsibility is ours.
In times of challenge and in times of blessing, we have the opportunity to plant for the generations that will follow. We can light Shabbos candles, learn Torah, welcome others into our sukkah, perform acts of chesed, strengthen our families, and help build a Jewish future rooted in Torah and mitzvos.
Tehillim teach us: “Those who sow in tears will reap in joy” (Psalm 126:5). This Sukkot, may we remember that we are both the harvest of those who planted before us and the planters for those who will come after us.
May we merit to strengthen the chain of Torah and mesorah, generation after generation.
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach!
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Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D., is a freelance columnist mainly concerned with Torah interpretation.