Q&A: Hoshana Rabbah
Hoshana Rabbah
Question
Hello Rabbi, people always argue to me that on the night of Hoshana Rabbah it is preferable to stick to the “tikkunim” in the festival prayer book because of their spiritual effects and their connection to this day (and likewise on Shavuot). For my part, I much prefer to sit and study material that I actually want to learn (and really study it, not just read superficially…). Which is preferable?
Answer
It is preferable to study what seems useful and interesting to you. I do not know what these “tikkunim” are supposed to accomplish, but in my estimation this is valueless mumbling.
Discussion on Answer
I meant valueless as Torah study. Of course, someone who is not capable of studying can engage in kindness, character-building, and other important values. He can also play soccer.
They are the ones who said this and they are the ones who said that. Those who instituted the Hoshana Rabbah tikkun were the kabbalists, and they are the ones who said that the book Mishneh Torah repairs the seal of kingship, etc.—and likewise the reading of Idra Rabbah. See Sha’ar HaKavanot, Derushei Sukkot, around discourses 7–9.
Why valueless? It certainly benefits people who are not Talmud scholars and gives them a connection to the festival.