Op-Ed: Simchas Torah – We Dance With Torah, Not With Bottles

by Berke Chein

On Simchas Torah we hold the Torah closed. We don’t start by reading. We don’t start with words. We start by dancing. By carrying it close. By circling together with joy.

That picture says something. If the Torah is closed, we shouldn’t need to start with all the bottles open. We certainly shouldn’t need them all empty before Hakafos begin.

The simcha of Yom Tov doesn’t come from what is in the glass. It comes from the Torah in our arms. From the circles we make. From the joy we bring with our own voices and feet.

Does that mean nobody should drink? No. Kiddush is Kiddush. A Lchaim has its place. Have one or two, celebrate. But keep it mindful. Keep it measured. Never force it on someone else. Some choose not to drink at all for whatever reason. Respect that.

This Yom Tov, be careful for each other:

• Do not pour for anyone underage.

• Do not pressure a friend.

• If you see someone struggling, be steady. Offer sips of water, bread if they can eat. If it looks serious from drinking, or if they are also cold and wet from the rain, help if you know how, or call Hatzolah. Hypothermia is a real danger.

• Shuls can help too. Put out what is needed for the Kiddush, but do not leave bottles lying around all night or day for anyone to grab. If something looks concerning, step in quietly and keep things safe.

The mitzvah of the day is simchas Torah. Joy in Torah. Not shikrus. Not bizayon haTorah.

We dance with the Torah wrapped to remind ourselves that the joy is already inside. When we open it to read V’Zos HaBracha, the blessings land deeper because the joy came first.

May this Simchas Torah be alive. Safe. Full of presence. May the circles we dance carry us forward with Torah and with joy.

Gut Yom Tov.
Let’s Dance!