A Sukkot Wish: Ufros Aleinu Sukkat Shlomecha

by Nina Fondiller Woldin

Today, on the eve of the second anniversary of the brutal October 7 massacre and the eve of Sukkot, peace talks are scheduled to take place in Egypt. This brings to mind the words of the Hashkiveinu prayer: Ufros Aleinu Sukkat Shlomecha ופרש עלינו סכת שלומך, “spread your shelter of peace over us.”

Sukkat Shlomecha –– a shelter, but like a sukkah – fragile, needing vigilant protection from wind, rain, or fire.

Conflict seems to be everywhere. People hold onto their beliefs fiercely and engage in passionate arguments. In the past two years, antisemitism has become increasingly acceptable, even fashionable. Conflicts come in various forms: countries at war, disagreements between people with different beliefs within a nation, and individuals clashing to the point where they prioritize their differences over relationships with friends and family.

According to the Talmud, Sinat Chinam שִׂנְאַת חִנָּם, baseless hatred, caused the destruction of the Second Temple. Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks said:

“When love is unconditional, it never ceases. The same applies to hate. When hate is rational, based on fear or disapproval that – justified or not – has some logic to it, then it can be reasoned with and overcome. But unconditional, irrational hatred cannot be reasoned with. It always persists.”

While we may not have seats at the negotiating table in Egypt or control over the crowds in the streets, we can choose how we behave. As we start this new year, I hope that as individuals, we can reassess our priorities – build and protect peace wherever we can.