What is Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah?

In the Diaspora, the celebration of Simchat Torah is deferred to the second day of the holiday. Commonly, only the first day is referred to as Shemini Atzeret, while the second is called Simchat Torah. Karaite Jews and Samaritans also observe Shemini Atzeret, as they do all Biblical holidays.

What is the Torah portion for Shemini Atzeret?

– The main Torah reading is Deuteronomy 14:22 – 16:17, which mentions the Shalosh Regalim (three Pilgrim Festivals), although not specifically Shemini Atzeret. Five people are called up to the Torah (seven, on Shabbat). – The Maftir is Number 29:35 – 30:1, which mentions the Festival (additional) sacrifice.

What is Shemini Atzeret and how is it celebrated?

Shemini Atzeret is the holiday that follows immediately after the seventh day of Sukkot, known as Hoshana Rabbah. Shemini Atzeret is a time when prayers or celebrations for rain and a good harvest are made for the coming year in the Jewish calendar.

What happens during Simchat Torah?

Simchat Torah is celebrated by taking all the Torah scrolls out of the ark in synagogue and spending the evening dancing, singing, and rejoicing. The scrolls are carried around the sanctuary in seven circles called hakafot. Though only seven circles are required, the dancing and celebrating usually goes on much longer.

When does Shemini Atzeret / Simchat Torah end?

It is immediately followed by Simchat Torah, which begins at sunset on September 28, and ends after nightfall on September 29, 2021. Note: The Jewish calendar date begins at sundown of the night beforehand.

When does Shemini Atzeret start and end in 2020?

Shemini Atzeret 2020 begins at sunset on September 27. It is immediately followed by Simchat Torah, which begins at sunset on September 28, and ends after nightfall on September 29, 2021. Note: The Jewish calendar date begins at sundown of the night beforehand.

What do we do on the second day of Simchat Torah?

Yizkor, the memorial for the departed, is also said on this day. The second day is known as Simchat Torah, during which we complete and immediately begin the annual Torah reading cycle. This joyous milestone is marked with dancing, traditionally following seven circuits known as hakafot, as the Torah scrolls are held aloft.