The Feast of Tabernacles, also called the Feast of Booths or Sukkot, is one of the seven appointed feasts of the Lord given to Israel. It is detailed in Leviticus 23:33–44 and is a joyful, week-long celebration that commemorates God’s provision and faithfulness during Israel’s wilderness journey.
“You shall dwell in booths for seven days… that your generations may know that I made the children of Israel dwell in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.”
(Leviticus 23:42–43)
This feast begins on the 15th day of the seventh month (Tishri) and lasts for seven days, with an additional sacred assembly on the eighth day. During this time, Israelites were to build and live in temporary shelters made from tree branches, symbolizing their dependence on God while traveling through the wilderness.
Key aspects of the Feast:
It was a pilgrimage feast: All male Israelites were to appear before the Lord in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 16:16).
It marked the end of the harvest season: It was a time of thanksgiving for God’s provision (Exodus 23:16).
Sacrifices were abundant: Numbers 29 lists detailed offerings, highlighting the feast’s significance.
In the New Testament, Jesus observed this feast. John 7 records His presence in Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles. On the last day, He made a profound declaration:
“If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink… out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
(John 7:37–38)
This statement connected the physical water-drawing ceremony of the feast with the spiritual life He gives through the Holy Spirit.
Prophetically, the Feast of Tabernacles points to the Millennial Kingdom, when Christ will reign and dwell (tabernacle) with His people. Zechariah 14:16–19 foretells that nations will be required to celebrate this feast during Christ’s reign.
The Feast of Tabernacles celebrates God’s presence, provision, and future dwelling with His people. It reminds believers of our dependence on Him and the coming day when He will dwell among us forever.
