The Joyous Feast of Tabernacles

Pool of Siloam

The Jewish people are in the midst of their observances of Sukkot, the Festival of Booths or Tabernacles.  It is described by many as the most joyous of feasts prescribed by the Lord in Leviticus 23.

The mood of these days are the result of harvest ended and the remembrance of God's deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage and his provision for the people while in the wilderness.

In order to get in touch with the sojourn in the wilderness, families eat, if not live, in outdoor booths.  What fun this must be for all, especially children!

In the time of Jesus, a priest would descend from the Temple precincts to the Pool of Siloam for the drawing of a pitcher of water.  The priest would return and pour the water in the altar area.  Prayers would be offered for much-needed rain during the upcoming season.  While this custom is missing today, any visit to the Pool of Siloam brings to mind the words of Jesus.  Jesus seized this important moment in the celebrations to declare that he is the water source for the spiritually thirsty.

May these days be doubly joyous for all God's children!