In this third NLE Morasha Syllabus shiur, we will see that the festival of Sukkot incorporates more than just Sukkot itself. The seventh day of the festival carries an aura of gravity and judgment and is known as Hoshana Rabbah. The eighth day, one of joy and ecstasy, is called Shemini Atzeret. In fact, this final day is an independent festival in its own right, upon which Simchat Torah is also celebrated (outside of Israel, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are split into two days).
We will explore the meaning of Hoshana Rabbah, the festival of Shemini Atzeret, and the celebration of Simchat Torah. As background to this class, we will also examine the unique relationship between the festival of Sukkot and the nations of the world, and its connection to the Messianic Era.