One year, while studying the Sukkot themes of fragility of life and concern for earth's ecosystems, I suggested to neighbors that we try a new tradition for Sukkot, that of inviting one mystery guest each night to dine in our shared sukkah. We thought this would be a way to make it fun for the children to learn and practice the mitzvah of hahnassat orhim, “the welcoming of guests.”
- Draw lots to determine who gets to invite a mystery guest and on which night.
- The person who picks the mystery guest decorates a chair as a seat of honor for the guest. The decoration must be appropriate to the special nature of the guest.