This small settlement just outside Jerusalem is mentioned in the Talmud (Mesechta Sukkah 45a) as the source of the aravah willow branches that were brought daily to the Beit HaMikdash during the Sukkot Festival and placed alongside the altar. This place was also known as Kalania, both names referring to the special status it enjoyed of being exempt from government taxes.

Motza is an attractive suburb of the capital, and home of an old Jerusalem winery. Its numerous aravah trees continue to supply the branches used by Jerusalemites for the fulfillment of the mitzvot of Sukkot.

© 1995-2024 Ohr Somayach International - All rights reserved.

Articles may be distributed to another person intact without prior permission. We also encourage you to include this material in other publications, such as synagogue or school newsletters. Hardcopy or electronic. However, we ask that you contact us beforehand for permission in advance at ohr@ohr.edu and credit for the source as Ohr Somayach Institutions www.ohr.edu