Second Day of Rosh Hashanah in Germany

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a two-day celebration that typically occurs in September or October, based on the Hebrew calendar. In Germany, as in other parts of the world where Jewish communities reside, the second day of Rosh Hashanah is observed with similar reverence and ritual as the first day.

History and Traditions

• Historical Roots: The tradition of celebrating Rosh Hashanah for two days has its roots in ancient times when it was difficult to determine the precise date of the new moon.
• Religious Services: On the second day, just like on the first, German Jews attend synagogue services that include special liturgy, prayers like the "Mussaf" (additional service), and the blowing of the shofar (ram's horn).
• Tashlich: While some perform Tashlich—a ritual involving casting off sins into a body of water—on the first day, others may do so on the second day if they could not perform it earlier.

What People Do

• Prayer and Reflection: The day is spent in prayer and reflection, much like the first day. There is a focus on repentance and preparing for Yom Kippur.
• Festive Meals: Families gather for festive meals that feature sweet foods symbolizing hopes for a sweet year ahead. Apples dipped in honey are a common tradition.
• No Work: Observant Jews refrain from work-related activities to honor the sanctity of this holy day.

The second day of Rosh Hashanah serves to reinforce themes introduced on the first day: introspection, renewal, and community. Despite historical challenges faced by German Jewry over centuries—including during and after World War II—Jewish communities in Germany continue to observe these age-old traditions with dedication.