Simchat Torah

Simchat Torah History

Simchat Torah, meaning "Rejoicing with the Torah", celebrates the conclusion of the annual cycle of Torah readings and the commencement of the new cycle. An important day in the Jewish calendar, it involves joyous dancing with Torah scrolls in synagogues and engaging in special prayers, reflecting on the centrality of the Torah in Jewish life. This celebration is marked by vibrant festivities and heartening community gatherings, which solidify a sense of unity among Jewish communities across the globe.

While the origins of Simchat Torah are debated, some attribute it to the Talmudic period, tracing it back to around 1000 C.E. It has a special connection with the United Kingdom, as progressive and inclusive events are organised to include men, women, and children, promoting a sense of togetherness and belonging. Simchat Torah also features the unique British tradition of "Kol Hane'arim", where all children under the age of Bar/Bat Mitzvah are called up to the Torah together and then be blessed as a group, fostering a deep connection amongst the younger generation.

In the United Kingdom, the observance of Simchat Torah includes the vibrant "Hakafot" ceremony, where community members joyously dance with Torah scrolls as part of a lively procession. Synagogues hold special services, accompanied by food, singing, and dancing to mark the joyous occasion. Moreover, educational programs are often arranged to provide an opportunity for insightful reflections on the significance of the day. Simchat Torah typically occurs in late September or October, following the conclusion of the Jewish holiday of Sukkot and the day after Shemini Atzeret. This year, Simchat Torah is observed on October 7th, 2023.

Facts about Simchat Torah

• It is customary for people to dance with the Torah Scrolls in Orthodox and Traditional Synagogues. They dance and make seven cycles Hakafot around the synagogue, both on the Eve of Simchat Torah and in the Morning Service.
• Children often join in the main adult Synagogue service carrying toy flags or mock Torah scrolls. Young children are often carried on their fathers' shoulders or piggy-backed around the Synagogue. All the children under 13 are called up to the Torah under a canopy or prayer shawl (Tallit). This is considered to be a special honor, which is not allowed the rest of the year and brings the children closer to the Torah.
• In some Jewish communities in the UK, it is traditional to unroll the entire Torah scroll in a large circle and read the end and beginning of the Torah to stress the cyclical nature of the Torah reading cycle.
• Clergy and congregants in many synagogues in the UK often take turns reciting a prayer or blessing over the Torah, contributing to a sense of communal celebration and ownership of the Jewish faith.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Simchat Torah

Top things to do in the UK for Simchat Torah

• Pray for Rain. Shemini Azeret and Simchat Torah is often accompanied by prayers for the rain. The holidays are in the Autumn, which is a critical period in Israel for harvests.
• Attend a Hakafot Shniot on the night after Simchat Torah. This is a replay of the Simchat Torah festivities, but in which Orthodox people can play musical instruments (which are forbidden during the festivals).
• Attend a synagogue service to listen to the Torah readings and participate in the traditional hakafot (a ceremony where the Torah scrolls are carried around the synagogue in a procession). Many synagogues in the UK, such as the Central London Synagogue or Manchester Great Synagogue, will hold special services for Simchat Torah.
• If you're unable to find public events near you, consider hosting a Simchat Torah celebration with friends and family at home. You can read from the Torah, prepare festive meals, engage in discussions about the Torah, and dance in celebration of the holiday.