5. These remarks continue what was mentioned before (in the Shul) concerning the Mitzvah of lulav and esrog, Simchas Bais HaShoeivah, and the water-offering. Furthermore, they have the advantage of being made in a Sukkah. We are commanded to discuss Torah concepts in every place, as we did in the Shul — but when these remarks are made in a Sukkah, they are actualized in a physical manner.
Among the special influences connected with a Sukkah is that of the Ushpizen, the guests: Avraham, Yitzchok, Yaakov, Moshe, Aharon, Yosef, and Dovid.[43] Also, the Previous Rebbe (Sefer HaMaamarim 5711 p 47) explained that there are “our Ushpizen” the Baal Shem Tov, the Maggid, the Alter Rebbe, the Mitteler Rebbe, the Tzemach Tzedek, the Rebbe Maharash, and the Rebbe Rashab.[44] These influences are brought about through the Sukkah and intensified by the Mitzvah of receiving guests, a Mitzvah which is a vessel for drawing down the influence of the Ushpizen.
Furthermore, a Sukkah is called “a Sukkah of peace” as we say in our prayers “spread over us the Sukkah of Your peace.” Peace must be individual, present in every Jew’s heart. Also, in the simple sense, we must have peace in Eretz Yisrael[45] 1 and then peace in the entire world.
In our prayers we say “Bring us with song to Zion Your city, and with everlasting joy to Yerushalayim Your Sanctuary.” may this become a reality with the coming of Mashiach. He will come and redeem us, “and lead us upright to our land,” gathering “the nation: the men, women, and children,” speedily in our days.
Notes:
- (Back to text) In other references Shlom6 is included among the Ushpizen in the place of Yosef. (There are many different opinions to who are the Ushpizen.)
- (Back to text) The Previous Rebbe is connected with the celebration of Shemini Atzeres.
- (Back to text) The only way to achieve peace is through “going in My ways and observing My Mitzvos,” then “I (G-d) will give peace in the land.”
2nd Night of Sukkos, 5741