Constructing a sukkah is a deliberate act, requiring careful planning and effort. A sukkah must meet strict requirements: its roof (schach) should provide shade yet allow the stars to be seen, its walls must be strong enough to withstand wind, and it must be constructed with care, intention, and mindfulness. Every detail matters: the height of the walls, which must fall within a specific range; the spacing of the walls; and even the types of materials used for the roof.
Construction requires not only technical attention but also a deliberate, thoughtful approach, ensuring that each component supports the structure’s purpose. The halachic tradition teaches that if these details are neglected, the sukkah may fail to fulfill the mitzvah. Even the smallest oversight – a misaligned wall, a poorly secured roof covering – can compromise the entire dwelling. One thing is certain: we cannot leave the building of a sukkah to chance. We cannot simply wing it and hope for the best. Building a sukkah with care and attention reminds us that deliberate effort matters in all areas of life.
The same truth applies to our finances. Too often, we treat money as something to be dealt with “later.” Our pension statements are stuffed in a drawer. We grumble about our mortgages, but never check if better options exist. As long as payments clear and checks don’t bounce, we push off taking ownership of our financial future. We’ll figure it out later, but later rarely comes.
But just as a sukkah requires time, planning, and intention to create a proper space, so do your finances. As the start of the new year and the chill of fall air signals the time to dig out and take a fresh look at your sukkah, let it also be a reminder to pause and assess your own finances. Make a decision to take the time to review and evaluate your finances so you have a sturdy financial framework that creates the space for joy and celebration for all seasons of your life.
Direction and vision
Sukkot recalls the long journey of the Jewish people through the wilderness – a time of wandering, uncertainty, and dependence on divine provision. The journey ultimately took 40 years and far longer than the physical distance necessitated from Egypt to Israel, but it was always directional. Along the way, the Israelites faced scorching days, bitter nights, scarce resources, and endless challenges. They faltered at times, made mistakes, and endured painful setbacks, often suffering losses that could have discouraged them entirely.
Yet, they knew despite whatever challenges lay before them in the moment that a land flowing with milk and honey was their destiny if they would only seize it. This long journey reminds us that progress is rarely linear; delays, detours, and failures are part of the process. Still, by staying steadfast and focused on the ultimate goal, the Israelites eventually realized the life they were meant to inherit.
For us, too, a clear vision of the future is paramount. Many of us haven’t sat down to contemplate exactly where we are heading. Simply earning more money isn’t a vision. And surviving from paycheck to paycheck shouldn’t be your goal.
As Sukkot reminds us of the journey to the Promised Land, we need to clearly envision what we want our futures to look like and commit ourselves to it. Do you want to save enough for a down payment on your first home? Build a fund to pay for family simchas? Achieve financial independence to spend more time with your children and grandchildren? Take a moment to define a specific goal. Having a vivid picture of your future in mind is essential to achieving that vision.
This Sukkot, pause to appreciate the deliberate effort that goes into your sukkah – every beam and each piece of schach just so. Let it remind you that your finances deserve the same care, and commit to devoting time to them. By taking intentional steps now, you move beyond “later” and create a foundation for security, freedom, and possibility. And just as the Jewish people’s journey from the wilderness and temporary booths ultimately led to a permanent home in the Land of Israel, your vision can guide you to a future of financial stability and fulfillment. Take a moment this week to set a clear goal. May this season bring you joy and meaning today as well as the clarity and confidence to build the future you envision.
Yehoshua Oz, MBA is a financial educator, writer, and Editor at NoFryers.com. He helps families in Israel and abroad with financial planning, navigating mortgages, and building lasting financial stability.”