As war continues in Israel, the Jewish people are preparing to welcome the Jewish New Year with Rosh Hashanah, which begins Wednesday night.
Many Israelis, especially those in the North, have been displaced from their homes since the start of the war and will not likely be able to spend the auspicious day together with their communities.
What is Rosh Hashanah?
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is celebrated on the 1st and 2nd days of Tishrei. It is the beginning of the Ten Days of Repentance, which culminates in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
The name “Rosh Hashanah” means “Head of the Year,” marking a time for judgment, where the Jewish People reflect on their actions from the past year and seek to return to a stronger relationship with God. It’s a time for introspection, personal growth, and prayer.
Why is this year’s Rosh Hashanah different?
On Rosh Hashanah, Jews believe God decides the fate of the world for the upcoming year. After a year of turmoil and tragedy, prompted by the 10/7 Massacre by Hamas against Israel, many are coming to Rosh Hashanah with fatigue and tears. It is especially hard this year, knowing that there are still over 100 hostages in Hamas captivity in Gaza.
How Jews Celebrate Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah is celebrated through joyful yet reflective rituals:
- Shofar Blasts: The blowing of the shofar (ram’s horn) to awaken our souls and inspire change.
- Apples and Honey: Eating sweet foods like apples dipped in honey to symbolize our hopes for a sweet new year.
- Tashlich: Casting breadcrumbs into a body of water to symbolize the casting off of our sins and mistakes from the past year.
- Prayer: Attending special services and reciting prayers that focus on repentance, renewal, and the coronation of God as king.
During this significant season for our Jewish neighbors, and as we approach one year since the October 7 Massacre, join us in prayer for a new era of peace in Israel and across the Middle East.