Immediately following Sukkot, we observe Simchat Torah, and celebrate the completion of the annual reading of the Torah, and also affirm Torah as one of the pillars on which we build our lives. Simchat Torah occurs on the 22nd and 23rd of Tishrei.
As part of the celebration, the Torah scrolls are taken from the ark and carried or danced around the synagogue seven times.
During the Torah service, the concluding section of the fifth book of the Torah, D’varim (Deuteronomy), is read, and immediately following, the opening section of Genesis, or B’reishit, is read. This practice represents the cyclical nature of the relationship between the Jewish people and the reading of the Torah.
Historically, Sh’mini Atzeret and Simchat Torah were two separate holidays (a day of reflection after the end of Sukkot and a celebration of Torah the following day). However, in Israel and in Reform congregations, which generally observe one day of holidays rather than two, Sh’mini Atzeret is observed concurrently with Simchat Torah.
Rabbi Kath Vardi of North West Surrey Reform Synagogue discusses the joy Simchat Torah brings to Reform communities, and the cycles of life and history. You can read more here.