Sukkot
Sukkot, known as the Feast of Booths or Tabernacles, is celebrated by Samaritans much like it is in Judaism, with some unique aspects reflective of Samaritan theology and traditions. This week-long festival occurs in the autumn, commemorating the forty years the Israelites spent wandering in the desert after their exodus from Egypt, living in temporary shelters (sukkot).
For the Samaritans, Sukkot is one of the most important and joyous festivals of the year, emphasizing gratitude to God, the harvest's completion, and the ancestors' wilderness period. It's celebrated on Mount Gerizim, which Samaritans believe is the holiest site on earth, where they also believe Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac and where they hold that the true sanctuary by God’s command was to be established, contrary to the Jewish belief in the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.
Key Aspects of Samaritan Sukkot:
-
Pilgrimage to Mount Gerizim: The pilgrimage to Mount Gerizim is a central aspect of the celebration. Samaritans from both the community near Tel Aviv and those living around Nablus ascend Mount Gerizim to observe the festival. This pilgrimage is a vital expression of their faith, connecting them physically and spiritually to their most sacred site.
-
Building of the Sukkah: Like Jewish observance, Samaritans build temporary booths or shelters called sukkot. These are constructed near their homes and on Mount Gerizim. The sukkah represents the temporary dwellings in which the Israelites lived during their desert wanderings. Samaritans decorate their sukkot with fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products to celebrate the harvest and God's provision.
-
Ritual Offerings and Sacrifices: Samaritans perform special sacrifices and offerings on Mount Gerizim during Sukkot. These rituals are conducted by the priests and include offerings of fruits and animals. The sacrifices are part of the Samaritan's continued practice of ancient Israelite religion, reflecting their interpretation of the Pentateuch.
-
Reading of the Torah: The reading of the Torah, especially passages related to Sukkot and the Israelites' wilderness journey, is an essential part of the celebration. The Samaritan Torah is read in ancient Hebrew using their distinct script.
-
Community and Family Gatherings: Sukkot is a time for community gathering, family meals, and rejoicing. Samaritans spend time in their sukkot, sharing meals and celebrating the festival's joyous aspects with family and friends. It's a time of thanksgiving and communal bonding.
The celebration of Sukkot by the Samaritans underscores their deep connection to their history, the land, and their religious traditions. Despite their small numbers, the Samaritans continue to observe Sukkot and other festivals with great devotion, preserving their unique heritage and religious practices.