Firstly, I want you to appreciate the flimsiness of the temporary structure. Today would be a good day for it as it is also dreadfully windy and rainy.

The parallels that one can draw between our Sukkot and the flimsy shelters or lack of shelters experienced right now by those people in the disaster region of Pakistani Kashmir and the neighbouring areas, are surely acute. We can go back into the warmth and permanent shelter of our homes and Synagogues. They cannot.

The Tzanzer Rebbe said: "I visited many Tzaddikim (righteous ones) in order to learn wherein each excels. I wished to learn the spirit of perfect charity from Rabbi Hirsch, of Romanov, but I was unsuccessful. Rabbi Hirsch would be just as joyful when he lacked money for charity as when he possessed it. I, however, feel anguish in my whole body when I have no money for the poor."

On Erev Sukkot, the Tzaner would borrow great numbers of thalers and distribute them amongst the poor. When asked why he insisted upon special charity for Sukkot, the Rebbe replied: "We are commanded to adorn the Sukkah. And what better ornament can there be than the distribution of charity among those who lack the means wherewith to be glad in the "season of rejoicing?"

I know that you will give generously. Please go to http://www.worldjewishaid.org/donate/

 

Chag Sameach

AaG