Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah

What is Shemini Atzeret?

Not quite Sukkot, not quite its own holiday.

How to Greet Someone on Simchat Torah

Traditional hellos for the holiday that celebrates the cycle of Torah reading.

Shehechiyanu: A Meditation on this Moment

This blessing, traditionally recited for firsts, can be said anytime — since every moment is new and unprecedented.

Birkat Hagomel, a Jewish Prayer of Gratitude

A prayer said after recovering from a serious illness or surviving a dangerous journey.

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Summary

In making this the reading for Shemini Atzeret, a connection is drawn between Sukkot and this “eighth day of assembly.” For congregations that celebrate Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah on the same day, this reading is omitted.

Shemini Atzeret

Deuteronomy 14:22-16:17; Numbers 29:35-30:1

I Kings 8:54-66

Deuteronomy 14:22-16:17: Tithing, Sabbaticals and Pilgrimage

A connection between Sukkot and this “eighth day of assembly.”

Daf Yomi

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Recharge Now

Our weekly Shabbat newsletter, Recharge, features a thoughtful, timely essay to enrich your Shabbat. Here are a few of our recent pieces:

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We Evolve. So Does God.

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The Enemy Is Ourselves

The lesson of the one Jewish holiday commemorating a political assassination.


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