Ushpizin: Inviting the 7 Holy Guests
What is Ushpizin?
During the joyous festival of Sukkot, Jewish tradition invites us to welcome seven exalted guests into our Sukkah each night. These guests, known as the Ushpizin, are the patriarchs and spiritual leaders of the Jewish people. The Ushpizin prayer is recited to honor and invite these holy figures, adding a mystical and deeply spiritual dimension to the Sukkot experience.
The Seven Holy Guests
Each night of Sukkot, we invite a different guest, who brings their unique spiritual qualities to our celebration. These guests are:
- Abraham
- Isaac
- Jacob
- Moses
- Aaron
- Joseph
- David
The Ushpizin Prayer
The Ushpizin prayer is an opportunity to spiritually connect with these revered ancestors. Here is the Hebrew text of the prayer, along with its transliteration and translation:
Hebrew:
אושפיזין עילאין קדישין, תו אתון אושפיזין עילאין קדישין
Transliteration:
Ushpizin Ilain Kedishin, tu aton Ushpizin Ilain Kedishin
Translation:
“Exalted holy guests, come in, exalted holy guests.”
How to Incorporate the Ushpizin Prayer
To incorporate the Ushpizin prayer into your Sukkot celebration, consider the following steps:
- Recite the prayer at the beginning of your Sukkot meal each night.
- Reflect on the unique characteristics and teachings of each guest.
- Share stories or insights about the guest with your family and friends.
Conclusion
Inviting the Ushpizin into your Sukkah is a beautiful way to connect with Jewish history and spirituality. Each guest brings a unique opportunity for reflection and growth, enriching the festive atmosphere of Sukkot. As you recite the Ushpizin prayer, may you feel the warmth and inspiration of these holy guests, and may your Sukkot be filled with joy and blessings.