Mourning AND Hope as We Celebrate This Sukkot

Today, as we enter the joy of Sukkot — the Feast of Tabernacles, our hearts are also heavy. It is October 7, two years since the horrific attacks that took the lives of so many in Israel. For the Jewish people, this date will never be just another day on the calendar. It carries the memory of loss and pain, but also courage of those brave ones who risked all to protect their fellow Israelis— a reminder of how fragile life can be, even in the Land that God promised.

In the darkness of that October morning, heroes emerged. At the Nova music festival in Re’im, as Hamas militants launched their assault, Aner Elyakim Shapira threw himself into the breach. When terrorists hurled grenades into the shelter where festival-goers had sought refuge, Shapira did not flee. He stood by the entrance and began throwing seven grenades back, one by one, protecting those behind him. His selfless act saved the lives of at least seven people before he himself was killed. We remember Aner and so many like him.

Despite the heaviness, Sukkot calls us to rejoice before the Lord — to dwell in temporary shelters and remember that our true security has never come from walls or armies, but from the presence of God Himself. So today, we hold both truths together: grief and joy, mourning and hope. We remember those who were lost, we pray for those who still grieve, and we rejoice that one day, the Messiah will tabernacle among us, and there will be no more tears.

I made this teaching a couple of years ago to explain the significance of Sukkot. I hope it brings you a blessing.