October 10, 2022
Weekly global religious, spiritual and nonreligious observance information
The President's Committee on Religion, Spirituality and Nonreligious Diversity presents the global observance information for Oct. 10-16.
Kathina, began on Oct. 9, Theravadan Buddhist
Kathina refers to a time of giving when non-ordained, or lay, members of the faith express thanks to monks and nuns by offering new robes and other necessary items. It is also a tradition to give money to the poor and needy. See a sample description and images.
Sukkot, Oct. 9-16, Jewish
This weeklong Jewish observance celebrates both the gathering of the harvest and the miraculous protection God, Yaweh, provided for the children of Israel when they escaped slavery in Egypt and wandered in the desert for 40 years. During the observance, some Jews build little huts of unprocessed vegetation in backyards, on balconies and terraces. These huts, Sukkot, commemorate the temporary dwellings the Jewish people constructed and lived in during their time in the desert. Traditionally, Jewish people eat meals and stay as much as possible in the Sukkah for the seven-day period of the observance.
Note: The Sukkot comes five days after Yom Kippur, which began at sunset Tuesday, Oct. 4, and ended on the night of Wednesday, Oct. 5. Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year for the Jewish tradition. It is a day of atonement dedicated to introspection and prayers for forgiveness. For many Jews, work is avoided at this time as is eating and drinking — with exceptions for medical reasons. Depending on location and local traditions, other penance may be observed.
The committee apologizes for omitting Yom Kippur from last week's announcement.
The President's Committee on Religious, Spiritual and Nonreligious Diversity welcomes those of all global religious, spiritual and nonreligious commitments. Further, we welcome any suggestions, questions or other comments. Please contact the committee chair, Bev Earles, at earles@k-state.edu.