The United Synagogue

Shemini Atzeret

This holiday is celebrated on the eighth day of Succot. In Israel, it is celebrated for one day in combination with Simchat Torah. But in the Diaspora, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah are separated, with Shemini Atzeret celebrated on the eighth day, and Simchat Torah on the ninth day.

Why do we celebrate Shemini Atzeret?
Over the course of the seven days of Succot, seventy bulls are brought, beginning with 13 on the first day and seven on the last. These are interpreted as being for the benefit of all the nations of the world.

But on Shemini Atzeret, God says to the Jewish People: "All the guests have gone home now. Stay with me yet another day, and we will celebrate together, just you and I."

What does Shemini Atzeret mean?
"Shemini" means the eighth; "Atzeret" means "holding back".
Thus, the name "Shemini Atzeret" means the eighth day - the additional day that brings the seven-day holiday of Succot to its perfectly formed state.

What are the customs of Shemini Atzeret?
The major custom is the reading of the special prayer for rain - "Teffilat Geshrem" - during the Mussaf service (Additional Service) by the chazan.