What is the Jewish principle of participation?

[d-a-v-e]

First of all I'd like to say hello to everyone. This is my first post and I've been looking for a forum just like this one to ask a question that has been bugging me for a long time now.

I studied in Israel for a semester in '99 learning about the geography, archaeology and culture. At the Sukkot festival in Jerusalem we sat and listened to a rabbi (Akiva) and he said something that nobody else took much notice of but I thought it was key. He said when they're in the tabernacle they "are in the wilderness". He said it's the principle of participation. I had never heard of this before and to this day I don't completely understand it.

In some way the Jewish people take part in the event that occurred thousands of years ago. I don't know whether it's a sort of pretending to be there or re-living of a past event based on the written record.

If anybody knows what this principle of participation is about PLEASE share your insight. I come from an evangelical Christian background and we have no such concept in our understanding and I think we should.

Thank you,
d-a-v-e

[hyssop]

Welcome aboard, Dave. I've recently moved and have not had access to the Internet to read/respond to your post. I don't have time this morning to comment on Sukkot, but I shall before the end of the weekend.

We're happy to have you here, and thanks for the discussion topic.

[hyssop]

Dave,

First, let me apologize for the great delay in my response to your post. We just got Internet connectivity this past Thursday. I have been virtually "off the air" since January 24th of this year.

As I'm sure you are aware, the observance of Sukkot is a physical commandment. You might find it interesting to know that all physical commandments of G-d have a spiritual counterpart.

In fact, all of the physical creation has spiritual significance. For example, we all have earthly fathers. Good earthly fathers lovingly care and provide for their children. Well, G-d is our heavenly father, and He does just that for His children.

I find the principle of participation an interesting concept and have never heard of it before your post. I really cannot comment on how the principle might work. I have, however, given much thought as to what the spiritual significance of the command to dwell in booths represents.

If you would like to discuss the picture that G-d is painting by giving us Sukkot, let me know.