The fragile architecture of faith: why some traditions live under temporary roofs
In short: For seven days each autumn, many Jewish families abandon the security of permanent homes to live in a sukkah. This temporary hut, with its organic roof and swaying walls, is more than a seasonal shelter; it is a profound architectural meditation on human vulnerability and divine protection.
The sukkah is a temporary structure built during the festival of Sukkot, which occurs in the Hebrew month of Tishrei, typically during September or October. Its design is governed by specific religious laws, or halakha. The structure must have at least three walls, and its roof, known as s'chax, must be composed of organic material that has been disconnected from the ground, such as bamboo, pine branches, or palm leaves. Crucially, the s'chach must be positioned so that the inhabitants are still under the open sky, providing enough shade to cover the interior while ideally allowing glimpses of the sun or stars.
The symbolism of the sukkah is rooted in the biblical Book of Leviticus. It serves as a memorial to the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their liberation from slavery in Egypt. The fragility of the hut—often decorated with autumnal themes or even white sheeting to recall the 'Clouds of Glory'—is intended to remind practitioners of life's transience and their dependence on God. In some traditions, such as the Chabad Hasidim, the sukkah is not decorated at all, as the structure itself is viewed as an object of inherent beauty.
While the tradition encourages eating and sleeping in the sukkah, practicalities often dictate the limits of the practice. In northern latitudes, where autumn nights are cold, many choose to only eat or relax within the hut, retreating indoors to sleep. There is also a notable debate regarding the stability of the walls; some authorities, like R. Ovadiah Yosef, argue that walls must be rigid, whereas others, such as the Chazon Ish, permit a slight sway of less than three handbreadths. This nuance even allows for the modern use of canvas walls in certain circumstances.
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