 The Art of Sukkah Building A "sukkah" is a temporary outdoor hut made for use during the Sukkot festival. While the Sukkot holiday is considered a joyous occasion and is referred to in Hebrew as Yom Simchateinu (the day of our rejoicing) the sukkah itself symbolizes the frailty and transience of life and our dependence on God. There are many guidelines and requirements that must be followed in the construction of a sukkah, including where it can be erected, in order for it to be considered "kosher" or fit for use. Here are a few of the basic requirements. The roof of the Sukkah must be made out of organic materials (sechach) that are detached from their source of growth, such as bamboo poles, evergreen branches and palm leaves. There must be sufficient sechach to provide enough shade so that in a bright midday there is more shade than sun. The sukkah must have at least three walls, which can be made of any materials provided they are sturdy enough to withstand a normal wind. If the sukkah sways in the wind it is not kosher. Many communities decorate the sukkah by hanging pictures, streamers, shiny ornaments or other decorations from the interior walls and sechach beams. Fresh, dried or plastic fruit - including etrogs and the seven species for which Israel is praised (Deut. 8:8) -wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates - are popular decorations. According to Zechariah 14:16, during the time of the millennial reign of Jesus Christ all nations will make pilgrimages annually to Jerusalem to worship the LORD and celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. | 
God bless,
