Each year, in the synagogue the Torah is read through in a set cyclical order. Beginning with Genesis and ending with Deuteronomy. The ending of the cycle is on Shemini Atzeret, also called the 8th day of Sukkot. The next day is Simchat Torah or “Rejoicing in the Torah”. At this time, the Torah is taken from the ark (its housing) and walked or even danced around the congregation (traditionally 7 times), giving everyone a chance to touch the Torah. This is a very celebratory time and it signifies the gratefulness we have for the Word of God that is given to us in the Torah.
As a Messianic Congregation, we indeed do take joy in the Torah, as it is God’s Word, but we also take that same joy in the whole of the Word; The Torah, The Tenach (Old Testament) and the Brit Chadashah (New Testament). We do not worship the Torah, but we give it reverence as the Word of God.
Our Service on Friday, Oct 25th will have a focus on this special day as we present the Torah before the congregation that evening.
Special Synagogue Readings for Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah
Torah portion for Shmini Atzeret: Deuteronomy 14:22-16:17 (The Eight Day) followed by
Simchat Torah (Rejoicing in the Torah) Deut 33:1 – Genesis 1:1-2:3
New Torah Cycle Begins – Bereshit (in the beginning) Gen 1:1 – 6:8
