The universally accepted way to express love is an embrace. A "big hug", when it is authentic, demonstrates a solid and profound bond existing between the two people embracing each other. The Kabbalists teach that Sukkot is the holiday, the celebration, of G-d loving and embracing the Jew. The succah is essentially G-d’s hug – two- and a-bit walls represent the arm and hand of a hug.
I just visited the beautiful Blue cave in Kastellorizo Island, Greece. We went on a choppy ride on a speed boat with no life jackets. We arrived at a tiny hole in the rock wall and were instructed to jump into the rough water and swim through the hole into the cave. We entered a magical world of clear blue water that was reflecting blue light onto the caves. The visibility was incredible, and we could see thousands of fish below. This other-word level beauty reinforced for me on the eve of Succoth just how much G-d loves us and the beautiful creation we were given.
The festival of Succoth is a time of joy, the celebration, of G-d loving and embracing the Jew. The succah is essentially G-d’s hug. We know that G-d loves each of us. Every Jew regardless of age, size or ability is embraced by G-d. Perhaps the lesson for all of us to in-turn unconditionally love and hug others regardless of the superficial differences.
Chag Sameach