Jewish unity is one of the central themes of Sukkot. The four kinds symbolize four types of Jews:
The Midrash (legend based on a biblical verse) explains that the Four Kinds אַרְבַּעַת הַמִּינִים used on Sukkot סֻכּוֹת represent the diverse personalities within the community of Israel. The etrog אֶתְרוֹג (citron), with both taste and fragrance, symbolizes someone who studies Torah and observes mitzvot מִצְווֹת (commandments). The lulav לוּלָב (palm frond) with taste but no fragrance, represents those who study Torah but don’t observe mitzvot. The myrtle הֲדַס, with fragrance but no taste, symbolizes those who fulfill mitzvot but don’t study Torah, and the willow עֲרָבָה, lacking both taste and fragrance, represents those who do neither.
The mitzvah of holding the Four Kinds during Sukkot while we recite the special prayer, teaches that no one can truly grow without connecting with others. Even the etrog, which stands for Torah study and mitzvah observance, must be held with the willow to be complete. This shows that personal growth depends on the unity and support of the whole community. Bringing The Four Kinds together represents our unity as a nation—despite our external difference.
Ruti Yudovich
Ruti Yudovich, a veteran Hebrew educator with 38 years of experience, has authored 14 acclaimed non-fiction books, used worldwide. Her innovative approach to teaching makes Hebrew engaging and user-friendly for learners of all levels.
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