This holiday is known in the Torah as the "Festival of Gathering" since it is celebrated at the time of the year when the harvest and produce is brought from the fields into storehouses and homes. When a person gathers in the bounty of his land, he is naturally filled with tremendous joy and happiness. Just as this was true when people lived primarily in an agricultural society, it is true nowadays when we take a moment to appreciate the plentiness in the world.
Judaism does not deny or suppress human nature and insticts; rather, it seeks to utilize them in positive ways. The Torah wants us to celebrate and be happy, but to channel that joy toward our relationship with the Creator and with other human beings. We should use this opportunity to appreciate God's benevolence as well as to share our good fortune with others.
