A Mini Tornado destroys Sukkot

Sukot is a special time for Am Yisrael and a time we are tested as to whether we will be in the Sukkah in all weathers. Even during Elul Eretz Yisrael was busy, busy building their Sukkot.

We decided to wait until Friday, Erev Shabbat, to make sure no wind or other weather would affect our Sukkah. We were nearly ready and eager for the coming Chag.

But Hashem had other plans. He huffed and He puffed and sent a mini tornado through the area. Below you will see the damage to our Sukkah and some of our neighbours.

Thank G-d no-one was in any of the Sukkot when the wind tore through, but we have just hours before Sukkot begins and our Sukkah is irreparable. Our neighbours are busy re-building. For us, the metal frame is broken and dangerous to re-assemble. If anyone can assist towards obtaining a new Sukkah please it is urgent as Yom Tov is fast approaching.

If you can assist, a new Sukkah will probably cost NIS 2000.

Sukkot in Israel

One of the first phrases or sayings you will learn in ulpan is "All beginnings are hard." People in Israel love to tell you this and almost use it as an excuse as to why not to help you. As we stand now, at the beginning of the new year, 5770, here are some images to help to give you strength.

When things get tough, as they do in life, hold onto times such as this one. It is currently Sukkot, and the Chagim in Israel are exceptionally special. Just take a look at these few images. Just a few out of very many, of Sukkot in Israel.

Whether the Sukkah is way up high...

Tucked away in a corner...

Behind a tree...

Under a cloud...

Or when looking at a scene from far, you will see all the many many Sukkot...

Beautified and with its own window...

Or down the street.

All over there are Sukkot. Big ones, Little ones, Wooden ones, material ones. Simple ones, elaborate ones. All over Jews build their Sukkot and here is a scene to give you comfort.

In the diaspora there are places where it is dangerous to sleep in ones Sukkah or even to build one. Here you are part of one BIG family, all celebrating Sukkot together.