The following was received from the United States Transportation Administration (TSA) regarding the traveling with Arba Minim on Sukkos: The TSA recognizes that the travel period for Sukkot, a significant event for persons of the Jewish faith, begins approximately on September 23, 2007, and ends approximately on October 4, 2007.
TSA’s standard operating procedures do not prohibit the carrying of the four plants – which include a palm branch, myrtle twigs, willow twigs, and a citron through the airport or the security checkpoints, or on aircraft. These plants are not on TSA’s Prohibited Items List.
TSA understands that this is a significant religious event for the Jewish faith and has reminded its security workforce that members of the Jewish faith may be observed engaging in religious practices or meditations and carrying the four plants.
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10 Responses
Does anyone know whether the authorities in Eretz Yisroel will allow an esrog and lulav to be brought in to the country? I was told that they may confiscate them upon arrival.
Hashem Bless America
when I went last year there was no problem however you should buy arba minim there for a few reasons including that its cheaper and not to mention less to shlep and worry about on the plane.
I was told in England they can consfiscate them
a few years ago, my father shlepped matza to england for pesach. all the american mazah became “shvurim” even though the bakery told him they’ll pack it well. never happened. my mazah’s (from israel, to america) came whole. because the israeli’s packed it originally for export, i.e., for rough handling.
anyway, its like shipping coals to newcastle. dont buy things to ship to where its widely available.
next year, despite the shmittah pblm, you should still buy them in israel.
the arba minim are MUCH cheaper in Israel. you can buy a very nice set (VERY nice) for probably $50 US
if you are traveling I suggest you print the statement from the TSA and have it with you.
eize hu chochom haro es a hanoled.
you never know what TSA agent you will get.
#7: Some of them are so dense that a “shtikkel papier” won’t convince them either.
If you get ANY objection calmly, repeat calmly, ask for a supervisor.
Israeli law allows each person to bring in one esrog. If your minhag is to use only specific esrogim (e.g. from Calabria), then bring it, because you won’t be able to find it there. But if you don’t care where your esrog grew, then you’re much better off buying there. It’s cheaper, you save the shleppenish (especially of the lulov, and worrying that it will become posul in the overhead bin), and why not give Israeli growers a bit of parnossoh.
Next year because of shmitta you can get an esrog from Otzar Beis Din, very cheap.
marklevin
The main reason to buy 4minin in Eretz Yisrael is to help the economy and the people there.