Rabbis from all over the world in Calabria, looking for the perfect cedar for Sukkot

In this period, but already starting from July, rabbis from all over the world arrive in Calabria, in search of the cedar perfect for celebrating sukkot, or the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles or Feast of Tabernacles. TO Santa Maria del Cedro, but also in other municipalities on the northern Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, in the province of Cosenza, pure cedars are chosen, without blemishes and with smooth skin, to be used during the most important event in the Jewish religious calendar. This festival, which this year is celebrated from 29 September to 8 October, recalls the life of the people of Israel in the desert, during the journey to the Promised Land.

From Calabria to synagogues all over the world

The rabbis who arrive in Calabria choose cedars that have certain characteristics. The shape of the citrus fruit should be similar to a heart; the weight must be between 80 and 250 grams, the peel must be smooth, without imperfections. But, above all, the cedar must be pure, that is, born without grafts. In this selection, the rabbis get help from local farmers. Once the harvest is complete, the boxes containing the citrus fruits are transported to the Lamezia Terme airport.

From here they reach synagogues all over the world. During the Feast of Tabernacles, each Jewish family must build a hut without foundations, covered with leafy branches. The cedar is held in the left hand and symbolizes the perfection one must strive for in order to reach God. In the right hand branches of myrtle, willow and palm are held.

Green oil from Calabria

Calabrian cedar, also known as the green gold of Calabria, is registered in the register of protected designations of origin (PDO). It is used in catering, pastry making, liqueurs and cosmetics. Its presence in the upper Tyrrhenian Sea of ​​Cosenza dates back to the presence of Jewish communities in the area since the first centuries of the Christian era. A specific Consortium was established in order to protect this area of ​​Calabria rich in this precious citrus fruit brought to the region by the Jewish communities on their pilgrimage. The Cedar Festival takes place annually in Santa Maria del Cedro. This citrus fruit is considered a symbol of dialogue and peace between religions and cultures.

(Photo: Consorzio del Cedro di Calabria, Facebook page)