After the Sukkot holiday has ended, we are left with a variety of items that we used for mitzvahs, but which no longer seem to serve any function. For example, the four species (Lulav, Etrog, etc.), willow branches from Hoshana Rabba, and the sechach which formed the roof of our Sukkah.

But we musn't simply throw these mitzvah items out. Why not? The Torah says that after Abraham purchased a field for Sarah's burial, “the field rose up” (Genesis 23:17). In what way can a field ascend? Rashi explains that when a material object is used for a mitzvah, that object becomes elevated spiritually! The same applies to our elevated mitzvah objects which served to raise us up during the festival.

Items such as used Lulavs, torn Tzitzit, and broken Shofars – though they no longer retain any intrinsic holiness – must not be treated disrespectfully by discarding them in a filthy place such as a garbage bin (Mishnah Berurah 21:6). However it is permissible, according to the letter of the law, to leave the object in a clean place with full knowledge that someone else will come and dispose of it (Mishnah Berurah 21:7). People who demonstrate extra care for mitzvahs take it upon themselves to actually bury such articles or put them into a geniza (Rama O.C. 21:1).

There is a beautiful kabbalistic idea of “mitzvah recycling” – which suggests that any item used for one mitzvah should be used for another (Shulchan Aruch HaRav §12). For example, many save their Lulav sets and extra willows until the eve of Passover, to use them for kindling a fire for the mitzvah of burning chometz (Maharshal responsum §77). Similarly, old Tzitzit once detached from the Tallit can be used as effective bookmarks (Maharil).

Another beautiful practice is to cover the surface of the Etrog with aromatic cloves and use this throughout the year as a spice holder for the Havdallah service. Rebbetzin Eisenbach of Aish HaTorah in Jerusalem has the custom to collect dozens of Etrogs after Sukkot and to candy their tart fruit. She then serves it to the yeshiva students on Tu Bishvat – the new year for fruit trees.

Whatever you decide to do with your used mitzvah-objects, remember the underlying principle: Mitzvahs are for individuals to express their personal relationship to God, and to be creative within the boundaries of halacha (Jewish law).