Simchat Torah is approaching, and I am often asked when exactly Simchat Torah and the second holiday occur. The truth is, it can be confusing. So here's the explanation:
In Israel, we celebrate for only one day, so the eighth day of Sukkot is Simchat Torah.
Outside of Israel, we celebrate for two days, so the eighth day of Sukkot is "Shemini Atzeret," and the ninth day is "Simchat Torah.”
In other words, this year, Friday evening and Shabbat are Shemini Atzeret, and after Shabbat, Saturday evening and Sunday, it's Simchat Torah.
Sunday, October 4 - Simchat Torah: Shacharit 9:15 AM, Kiddush 10:30 AM, Hakafot 11:00 AM at Chabad Basel, Ahornstrasse 33. All welcome!
At Chabad, we also celebrate "Simchat Torah" on the first evening, which is Friday evening. Why? Because it's a tradition of the Chassidim and Sephardim (mainly those who incorporated Kabbalah into prayer and customs). Probably also to unite with the Jews in Israel who celebrate on this evening.
Friday, October 2: Mincha 7:00 PM, Maariv 7:20 PM, followed by Kiddush in the Sukkah with a light bite (warm soup) at approx. 7:40 PM, and Hakafot of Shemini Atzeret at 8:10 PM. There will be herring, vodka, whiskey and other delightful and particularly festive treats. We look forward to seeing you!
