Shemini Atzeret

Shemini Atzeret Quick Facts - GB

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2023 Date6 October 2023
2024 Date23 October 2024

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Shemini Atzeret

Shemini Atzeret is a Jewish observance that takes place on the eighth day following the week-long holiday of Sukkot. It is a separate holiday from Sukkot and has its unique significance, serving as the final celebration of the holiday season. In Israel, this day is combined with Simchat Torah, a joyous festival that marks the conclusion of the annual Torah reading cycle. Outside Israel, such as in the United Kingdom, these two holidays are often celebrated separately, with Shemini Atzeret on the eighth day and Simchat Torah on the ninth day.

The origin of Shemini Atzeret can be traced back to biblical times, mentioned in Leviticus and Numbers as an additional day of assembly after the conclusion of Sukkot. Though originally functioning as a subtle extension of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret has evolved and now addresses themes of divine protection, nature, and gratitude for the year's bounty. For the Jewish community in the United Kingdom, the day also affirms their connection to their religious heritage and promotes unity among Jewish people worldwide.

In the United Kingdom, observance of Shemini Atzeret varies among different Jewish communities but typically involves participation in special synagogue services that include prayers for rain, remembering the departed, and the Torah cycle completion. Traditionally, some British Jews also partake in festive meals and family gatherings during this time. The date of Shemini Atzeret depends on the Hebrew calendar and typically falls in October. However, the Gregorian calendar dates vary annually, and specific dates should be consulted according to local Jewish community guidelines or calendars.

Shemini Atzeret facts

  • The Biblical book of Nehemiah (verse 8:18) mentions how all men in Jerusalem gathered at the Holy Temple to hear the Torah on the day of Shemini Atzeret.
  • Shemini Atzeret is observed in Orthodox communities with candle lighting in the evening, Kiddush (sanctification over wine) and two challah breads. This is representative of all Jewish High Festivals and an evening and morning festive meal. Two Challah breads are used to commemorate the Sabbath in the wilderness. During this time Manna (edible substance that God provided for Israelites during time in the desert) fell from Heaven in a double portion on Friday, so that on the Sabbath day, the Israelites, did not need to perform the work of gathering Manna.
  • Often an additional service after the morning service is held in Orthodox Synagogues. Hallel (Psalms with praise) is recited. Observant Jews do not work on this day.
  • In the late 1700s, Britain's large and flourishing Jewish Sephardi community—composed of Jews from Spanish and Portuguese descent—established what is known today as the S&P Sephardi Community. They celebrate Shemini Atzeret according to Sephardi traditions which can differ from Ashkenazi practices.
  • Special kiddush (sanctification of the day over wine) is recited and two challah breads are used for the blessing over the bread in festive meals to honour the holiday.

Top things to do in the UK for Shemini Atzeret

  • On Shmini Atzeret, it is customary for Orthodox Jews to spend an 'extra day with God' and postpone their return to work and to mundane tasks.

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