Rosh Hashanah in Israel

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of the holiest days in Israel and within the Jewish faith. It marks the beginning of the High Holy Days or "Days of Awe," which culminate with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

History and Significance:

• Biblical Origin: The roots of Rosh Hashanah are found in the Bible (Leviticus 23:23-25), where it is called "Yom Teruah" (the day of sounding the shofar).
• Creation: According to Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world.
• Judgment Day: It's believed to be a day of judgment when God inscribes each person's fate for the coming year in the Book of Life or Book of Death.

Traditions:

• Shofar: The blowing of the shofar, a ram's horn, is a central and iconic part of Rosh Hashanah services. It serves as a call to repentance.
• Prayer Services: Extended synagogue services that include special liturgies like "Unetaneh Tokef" are held.
• Tashlich: A custom where people throw pieces of bread into a body of water, symbolizing casting off sins.

Observances and Activities:

• Festive Meals: Families gather for festive meals that feature sweet foods like apples dipped in honey to symbolize a sweet new year.
• New Fruit: Eating a new fruit not yet eaten that season signifies new experiences.
• Greeting: The common greeting is "Shana Tova" (Hebrew for "a good year").

During Rosh Hashanah, work is prohibited, and time is instead spent in prayer and reflection. The holiday provides an opportunity for individuals to review their actions over the past year and make amends or resolutions for improvement in anticipation of Yom Kippur.