A rare and unusually large etrog from Israel sold for a record-breaking $18,000 in a New York auction, breaking the previous record of $15,000. The etrog, which weighed over 1.5 pounds and was described as "perfectly symmetrical" and "flawless," was grown by Israeli farmer Avi Kedar and sold to a buyer from the United States.

Etrogim are a special citrus fruit used during the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, during which Jews around the world gather in temporary outdoor shelters known as sukkot. According to Jewish tradition, the etrog is one of the four species that are held together with a lulav (palm branch) and waved in all directions during the holiday.

Kedar, who has been growing etrogim for over 30 years, said that he was surprised and honored by the high price that his etrog fetched in the auction. "I knew it was a special etrog, but I never imagined it would sell for such a high price," he said.

The buyer, who wished to remain anonymous, said that he was thrilled to have the opportunity to own such a unique and beautiful etrog. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own something truly special," he said. "I can't wait to use it during Sukkot and show it off to my friends and family."

The sale of the record-breaking etrog highlights the value and importance that Jews place on this special fruit during the holiday of Sukkot. It also underscores the skill and expertise of Israeli farmers like Kedar, who have dedicated their lives to growing the highest quality etrogim in the world.