BecomingJewish.Org >> Jewish Holidays >> Simchat Torah

Hebrew Date: Twenty-third of Tishri

Secular Dates: (5770) Oct 11, 2009 | (5771) Oct 1, 2010 | (5772) October 21, 2011

Duration: One day

Work: Not permitted

Name: Simchat Torah

Simchat Torah (Rejoicing in the Torah) occurs at the conclusion of Sukkot on 23 Tishri (in September or October). No work is permitted on Simchat Torah. Simchat Torah celebrates the conclusion of the annual reading of the Torah and the immediate beginning of the annual cycle. It is a time to celebrate the central symbol of Judaism, the Torah through prayer and celebration. The last Torah portion, then proceed immediately to the first chapter of Genesis, reminding us that the Torah is a circle, and never ends. This completion of the readings is a time of great celebration. There are processions around the synagogue carrying Torahs and plenty of high-spirited singing and dancing.

Additional Information: Simchat Torah: Celebrating the Torah :: Simchat Torah :: Simchat Torah :: Dancing with Scrolls :: Simchat Torah

Family Activities: Tzivos HaShem: Simchat Torah