What Is Rosh Hashanah & Why Is It Celebrated?
NYC is home to the largest Jewish community in the United States, with approximately 1.7 million Jewish people living in the state of New York, according to World Population Review. Therefore, many New Yorkers will be celebrating the Jewish New Year beginning this Friday for Rosh Hashanah.
Not really sure what the holiday is and why it’s celebrated? We’re here to give you a little rundown!
What is Rosh Hashanah?
Rosh Hashanah is known as the Jewish New Year. Translating to “head of the year” or “first of the year,” it is one of the holiest holidays in Judaism. In layman’s terms, Rosh Hashanah celebrates the creation of the world. Rosh Hashanah also signals the beginning of the Days of Awe that ends with Yom Kippur.
When is Rosh Hashanah 2023?
Rosh Hashanah begins at the start of Tishrei. This typically occurs around September or October but is more specifically the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. For 2023, Rosh Hashanah will begin on Friday, September 15 and last through sundown on Sunday 17th.
Who celebrates Rosh Hashanah?
Those who practice the Jewish faith celebrate Rosh Hashanah.
What do Rosh Hashanah celebrations entail?
Many of those celebrating Rosh Hashanah will spend the holiday at synagogue with the sounding of the ram’s horn, known as the shofar. Following services, many celebrate with a candle lighting and traditional meals.
What are some symbols of Rosh Hashanah?
Some symbols of Rosh Hashanah include: apples and honey (for a sweet New Year), shofar (mentioned above for introspection and to honor God as the king of the universe), round challah (circle of life), pomegranates (love and fertility), and a fish head (a literal and symbolic translation of “head of the year”).
What are some Rosh Hashanah greetings?
“Shanah Tovah” or “L’shana tovah” can be said in Hebrew to tell someone to have a good year. People can also just say “Happy Rosh Hashanah” or “Have a sweet New Year.”
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