If only I could share with you
My canopy of peace
If only I could envelop you
In these clouds of glory
Here we dwell in the Almighty’s shade
We’ve found favor in a spiritual abode
It’s the Sukkot festival, the time of our joy
Thus we celebrate, in our temporary home
Come on in, please join us
Will you be our ushpizin today?
Together we’ll eat, we’ll dance, we’ll sing
Pull up a chair, so we can begin.
Meanwhile, thousands of miles away
But in the place closest to home
A massacre unfolds, tragedy abounds
Libations of blood desecrate the day
They were slaughtered in the pasture
Torn asunder, with none to save
Heavenward ascended the offerings
The unblemished youth of Israel
Sacrificed mercilessly, on an altar of rage
Now with You, they permanently dwell
A palm branch wilts, the willows weep
The citron, its fragrance no longer as sweet
Now it’s our turn to take cover
We do so, however, under prayer shawls
Watch as the kohanim raise their hands They chant together, fully in tune
May Hashem bless and protect you
May Hashem shine upon you, with grace
May Hashem turn His face toward you
And bestow upon you peace.
If only I could have shared with you
My canopy of peace
