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Simchat Torah
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Simchat Torah' mean 'rejoicing in the law'.
There is an annual cycle of Torah readings. On Simchat Torah we read the last verses of Deuteronomy
(the fifth book of the Torah) and then start the cycle again, reading the first verses of Genesis
(the first book of the Torah).
Simchat Torah is a very joyful occasion. All the scrolls are taken from the Ark and carried round
the synagogue seven times ('hakkafot'). Everyone has a chance to carry the scrolls and
all join in singing traditional songs and popular Hebrew songs, dancing and waving flags. If the
weather is dry the procession may go outside as well.
Two members of the congregation are honoured by being selected as Chatan Torah
(bridegroom of the Torah) and Chatan Bereshit (bridegroom of the beginning of the Torah - Genesis).
In the morning service the Chatan Torah is called to read the final verses of the Book of
Deuteronomy. He/she is called to the reading with a greeting which tells of the good work
they have done and their contribution to the community. The Chatan Bereshit, after a similar
introduction, reads the first verses of the Book of Genesis.
All the children come to the bimah during the service, a tallit is spread above their heads
and they receive a special blessing. All the congregation have their turn too. They are called up,
in groups, to share the reading of the Torah. There are sweets for the children
(and a drink for the adults).
At NWSS, we have a very special ceremony. The Sefer Torah is unrolled completely around the synagogue hall, held up (very carefully) by all the members of the congregation. The Rabbi goes round the room, giving a brief explanation of each section of the scroll. The Torah is then rolled up, in the other direction, so that we are ready to start reading at the beginning. .
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Festival dates
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