Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'three times in the year' refer to in Exodus 23:17?
A: The verse refers to the three pilgrimage festivals (Shalosh Regalim) in Judaism: Passover (Pesach), Shavuot, and Sukkot. During these times, Jewish men were required to appear at the Temple in Jerusalem to bring offerings and celebrate before Hashem.
Q: Why were only males required to appear before Hashem in this verse?
A: According to Rashi and traditional Jewish sources, the obligation primarily fell on men because traveling to Jerusalem could be physically demanding, and women were often occupied with childcare. However, women were permitted and even encouraged to participate in the pilgrimage if they were able (Talmud, Chagigah 2a).
Q: What is the significance of appearing before Hashem three times a year?
A: The three pilgrimages reinforced the connection between the Jewish people, the Land of Israel, and the Divine Presence (Shechinah). They provided spiritual renewal, unity among the nation, and an opportunity to express gratitude to Hashem for the agricultural blessings tied to each festival (Rambam, Hilchot Chagigah 1:1).
Q: How is this commandment observed today without the Temple?
A: Since the Temple's destruction, the physical pilgrimage is no longer possible. However, we still celebrate the three festivals with prayers, festive meals, and Torah study. On Passover, we hold the Seder; on Shavuot, we stay up learning Torah; and on Sukkot, we dwell in the sukkah and wave the Four Species (Talmud, Rosh Hashanah 30a).
Q: What lesson can we learn from this verse today?
A: This verse teaches the importance of setting aside regular times for spiritual connection and communal worship. Just as our ancestors made pilgrimages to Jerusalem, we too should prioritize moments of devotion, gratitude, and unity—especially during the festivals (Midrash Tanchuma, Re'eh 1).
The Mitzvah of Aliyah L'Regel (Pilgrimage Festivals)
The verse (Exodus 23:17) commands Jewish males to appear before Hashem three times annually. This mitzvah is known as aliyah l'regel (ascending for pilgrimage) and applies during the three regalim (pilgrimage festivals): Pesach, Shavuot, and Sukkot (Chagigah 2a).
Who is Obligated?
The Purpose of the Pilgrimage
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 91) explains three key purposes:
Historical Context
The Talmud (Pesachim 8b) describes how entire families would travel together to Yerushalayim, creating a powerful atmosphere of unity. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 31:16) notes that the pilgrimages served as opportunities for national repentance and renewal.
Contemporary Application
While we currently lack the Beit HaMikdash, the Rema (Orach Chaim 529:1) writes that we maintain aspects of this mitzvah through: