We know that our Sukkah is in memory of the Annanei HaKavod—clouds of glory that Hashem created for us in the desert. There were so may miracles in the desert - maan, springs of Miriam... Why do we have a whole holiday for this miracle?
The Tzemach Tzaddik explains that the food and water were essentials Bnei Yisrael needed to survive. The clouds Hashem provided them were not a necessity; Bnei Yisrael had tents to shelter them. These clouds were a symbol of Hashem’s love surrounding us. These clouds protected Bnei Yisrael from the harsh dessert sun, the hot sand and hid Bnei Yisrael from enemies. The sukkah reminds us that we did not just survive in the desert for forty years, we had 360 degrees of Hashem’s love.
Many years ago, Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser traveled to the former Soviet Union to teach a torah class. Since torah learning was illegal, the whole mission was highly secret and dangerous. In that basement he gave an unforgettable class, each participant burning with passion for Torah. The fiery class extended past the mandated curfew, and as they were leaving his host invited Rabbi Goldwasser to a farewell meal the next day.
Rabbi Goldwasser wanted to bring his host a gift for endangering his life to host him. He decided on a white challah cover with a Magen David and the words; “Shabbat Shalom” embroidered in blue thread. The Rabbi hid the cover deep into his bag.
The meal was simple, and the tiny kitchen was filled with glowing neshamot—souls. At the end of the evening the Rabbi brought his gift over to his host. Instead of thanking him, his host silently broke down in tears. Wordlessly, he took the Rabbi to the foyer and pulled out a folded paper napkin from a crumbling shelf. He unfolded it carefully. In blue marker was a hand drawn Magen David, and beneath it in loving letters were the words “Shabbat Shalom.” For years this had been his beloved challah cover. Then he gave the napkin to the Rabbi, kissed the new cover and put it on his shelf.
Hashem had shown Rabbi Goldwasser the hashgacha pratis—divine supervision He has for His nation, Am Yisrael. May we feel Hashem’s love surrounding and guiding us this Sukkot and upcoming year. May we follow in the ways of Hashem and offer unconditional love to others.
Reprinted from the Parashat Haazinu-Sukkot 5786 email of Jack E. Rahmey based on the Torah teachings of Rabbi Amram Sananes
