As Jews around the world prepare to step into the sukkah — a fragile, temporary dwelling open to the wind, the rain, and the stars — we are invited into a practice that reminds us both of the vulnerability of life and the joy of gathering in community.
This year, Dayenu is offering new Sukkot resources to help us connect Jewish tradition to the spiritual and political work of confronting the climate crisis. We invite you to explore teachings, rituals, and actions that draw out the climate connections of Sukkot and equip us to face these times with courage, resilience, and joy.
👉 Explore the full Sukkot resource page, including a delightful craft for everyone (but especially college students).
Why Sukkot Matters in a Time of Climate Crisis
Sukkot challenges us to cultivate joy, gratitude, and resilience even (and especially) in the midst of precarious times, as we dwell in a temporary shelter. One mitzvah (sacred practice and obligation) of Sukkot is to welcome Ushpizin – honored guests.
We practice this through dedicating each night of Sukkot to different powerful and courageous ancestors – remembering their stories and drawing strength from their examples – and inviting in guests to share the joy of the holiday. Sukkot reminds us of our interdependence and calls us to build resilience together – ensuring safe shelter, food, and flourishing for all in a changing climate.
The paradox of joy in the midst of vulnerability speaks directly to our climate reality, where displacement, instability, and ecological chaos touch millions worldwide, yet joy and resilience remain essential for survival and transformation.
Some of the climate themes of Sukkot:
- Fragility & Displacement: Just as Jews once wandered in the desert, climate migrants today are forced to flee their homes due to droughts, floods, and storms. Building a sukkah reminds us of their precarious shelters and the urgency of climate justice.
- Interdependence & Abundance: The sukkah opens us to nature, reminding us of our reliance on clean air, water, and food — and our shared responsibility to protect them.
- Joy & Resilience: By celebrating joy in uncertain times, Sukkot calls us to the spiritual audacity needed to build a just and livable future.
Take Action with Dayenu
Sukkot calls us to cultivate joy even in vulnerable times — to envision the world we want and take steps to bring it to life. Just as the shofar awakens us to renewal and responsibility, we can awaken our communities and leaders to the urgency of the climate crisis.
Check out Dayenu’s new Sukkot resources for rituals, learning, and additional ways to take action this season.
