One of the unique commandments of the holiday of Sukkot is the taking of the four species, all of whose source is a beautiful tree. They are the fruit of a citron tree (called 'Etrog'), a ripe, green, closed frond from a date palm tree (called 'Lulav'), boughs with leaves from the myrtle tree (called 'Hadass'), and branches with leaves from the willow tree (called 'Aravah'). The Sages tell us that the four species symbolize four different personality types. By taking the different species and holding them together, we emphasize the importance of coming together and uniting in the service of God, teaching us that working as a whole is the way which God intended. What better way to show our love and unity with our fellow than making the holiday truly joyous for those in need?
|