Rosh Hashanah in Canada

Rosh Hashanah, known as the Jewish New Year, is celebrated by Jewish communities across Canada. This significant holiday usually falls in September or October, depending on the Hebrew calendar, and marks the beginning of the Jewish year.

History and Significance

• Rosh Hashanah is observed on the first two days of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar.
• It commemorates the creation of the world and is a time for introspection, looking back at one's actions over the past year and making amends for any wrongdoings.
• It also begins a 10-day period known as the "Days of Awe" or "High Holy Days," culminating in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

Traditions

• Prayer Services: Jews attend synagogue services that include liturgical readings and blowing of a ram's horn (shofar), symbolizing a call to repentance.
• Tashlich: A tradition where bread crumbs are cast into flowing water to symbolically "cast away" sins.
• Apple and Honey: Eating apples dipped in honey signifies hope for a sweet new year.

Observances

• Many Jews in Canada take time off work to observe these holy days with family and community.
• Greeting cards and messages often wish others "L'Shanah Tovah" (for a good year) or "Shana Tova Umetukah" (a good and sweet year).
• Festive meals feature traditional foods such as challah bread, fish, and pomegranates.

Rosh Hashanah is not an official public holiday in Canada; however, schools and businesses may provide accommodations for those observing it. The holiday's observance varies among individuals but retains its central themes of renewal, reflection, and community.