Rain, Nostalgia, and Empathy: Liturgical Poems for the Holiday of Sukkot

A virtual event presentation by Dr. Yitz LandesThe event was co-hosted by Beth El CongregationAbout the Event: What is the connection between rain, the Temple, and caring for the other? In this class, we will look at the ways in which these themes connect in ancient Hebrew liturgical poems (piyyutim) written for the holiday of Sukkot. After first gaining a familiarity with the different genres of piyyutim and their liturgical and historical settings, we will read closely from some of the piyyutim for Sukkot—several of which are still recited today—to gain deeper insights into how the holiday of Sukkot has been understood and celebrated throughout history. About the Speaker: Yitz Landes is an Assistant Professor of Rabbinic Literature and Cultures at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. His research focuses on Rabbinic Judaism, the history of the Jewish Book, and Jewish Liturgy. He received his Ph.D. in Religions of Mediterranean Antiquity from Princeton University after receiving a BA in Talmud and Halakha and Comparative Religion and an MA in Talmud and Halakha and Late Antique Studies from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His publications include Studies in the Development of Birkat ha-Avodah (2018) as well as several peer-reviewed articles. ★ Support this podcast ★