Special Days

61: Rejoicing on Holidays

"You shall rejoice on your holiday." (Devarim 16:14)

It is a mitzvah to celebrate the holidays (Pesach, Shavuos, and Sukkos) with meat, wine, fine clothing, and sweets. We should also help the poor and the lonely to rejoice.

The main focus of this mitzvah is to rejoice in the opportunity to perform mitzvos and to serve Hashem with joy (Rambam, Hilchos Sukkah 8:15).

The Sefer HaChinuch (mitzvah 488) explains that we need joy in our lives just as we need food and sleep. Thus, the Torah provides us with opportunities to rejoice so that even our rejoicing will be part of our avodas Hashem, as the Mishnah teaches: "Do all of your activities for the sake of Heaven" (Avos 2:17).

The Vilna Gaon explains that one should avoid all thoughts of worry, sadness, or pain throughout all the days of the holidays.

Text Copyright © 2007 by Rabbi Moshe Goldberger and Torah.org.