What is Rosh Hashanah and what do you do?

Rosh Hashanah, which translates to “Head of the Year” in Hebrew, is the Jewish New Year, a significant holiday in the Jewish calendar that marks the beginning of the High Holy Days or “Days of Awe.”

This two-day celebration usually falls in September or early October, depending on the Hebrew calendar, specifically on the first and second days of the month of Tishrei.

Historical and Religious Significance

Rosh Hashanah has both historical and religious significance. It is believed to be the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve, and it is a time for Jews to reflect on their actions over the past year and seek forgiveness for any wrongdoings.

It is also the beginning of a ten-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, which is considered the holiest day in Judaism.

Traditional Practices

The observance of Rosh Hashanah includes several customs and traditions that are rich in symbolism and meaning:

1. Blowing the Shofar: One of the most distinctive rituals of Rosh Hashanah is the blowing of the shofar, a ram’s horn, which serves as a wake-up call for spiritual renewal. The shofar is blown during synagogue services, and its sound is meant to inspire reflection and repentance.
2. Prayer Services: Special prayer services are held in synagogues, with liturgy that emphasizes themes of repentance, renewal, and the sovereignty of God. The prayers include the “Unetaneh Tokef,” which speaks of the judgment that takes place on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
3. Tashlich: On the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah, many Jews participate in the Tashlich ceremony, where they symbolically cast off their sins by throwing pieces of bread into a body of flowing water.
4. Festive Meals: Rosh Hashanah is also a time for family gatherings and festive meals. Traditional foods include apples dipped in honey, symbolizing the hope for a sweet new year. Round challah bread, often with raisins, is also eaten to represent the cyclical nature of the year and the wholeness of life.
5. Greeting Cards and Wishes: It is customary to send cards and extend wishes for a good year. The traditional greeting is “Shanah Tovah,” which means “Good Year.”
6. Personal Reflection: Beyond rituals and prayers, Rosh Hashanah is a time for personal reflection. Individuals take stock of their lives, seek forgiveness from those they have wronged, and make resolutions for improvement in the coming year.

Conclusion

Rosh Hashanah is more than just the Jewish New Year; it is a profound spiritual experience that combines solemn introspection with joyous celebration. It provides an opportunity for renewal and sets the tone for the High Holy Days, encouraging individuals to improve themselves and their relationships with others and with God. Whether through the sound of the shofar, the sweetness of honey-dipped apples, or the introspective prayers, Rosh Hashanah offers a meaningful and enriching way to begin the new year.