Why Did Jesus Celebrate in Secret?

My time has not yet come

First of all, Sukkot was one of the three Feasts during which every Jewish man had to come to Jerusalem for worship. Of course, Jesus would fulfill the commandment and go up to Jerusalem; therefore, when he says to his brothers, “I am not yet going up to this feast” (John 7:8), the emphasis is on “yet”, he is not going yet. He will be travelling at the last minute and incognito – but why?

The mitzvah of hospitality

One of the most important aspects of Sukkot has always been inviting guests into one’s Sukkah (booth). Welcoming guests on Sukkot is especially significant. In many ways the Sukkah represents the tent of Abraham, from which Jewish tradition gets the mitzvah of hospitality (Genesis 18). And though people could invite guests for any night of this weeklong feast, the most festive and important night was the first – the eve of Sukkot. 
 

Jesus’ deeds explained through Jewish context

Being a Rabbi, Jesus would have been invited for this special night by several people - and inevitably, would have had to turn down some invitations. This might be the reason he went “as it were in secret”, to celebrate Sukkot with somebody who was especially close to his heart. Our live online course, Jewish Background of New Testament, will give you a deeper understanding of Jesus’ words and deeds by seeing them in their Jewish context.

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