Rosh Hashana Eve in Israel

Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, is a significant holiday in Israel, marking the beginning of the High Holy Days or "Yamim Noraim," which are days of penitence leading up to Yom Kippur. Rosh Hashana itself is a two-day celebration that begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, typically falling in September or October.

History and Significance:

• Biblical Origin: Rosh Hashana is biblically mandated in Leviticus 23:24 and Numbers 29:1 as "Yom Teruah" (a day of sounding the shofar).
• Creation: It commemorates the creation of the world and humanity.
• Reflection and Repentance: It's a time for introspection, looking back at one's actions over the past year, and planning changes for personal improvement in the coming year.

Traditions:

• Shofar: The blowing of the shofar (ram's horn) is a central observance. While this occurs during daytime services, anticipation builds on Rosh Hashana Eve.
• Sweet Foods: To symbolize hopes for a sweet year ahead, apples dipped in honey are traditionally consumed.
• Challah Bread: Customarily round challah breads are baked to represent continuity.
• Tashlich: Some perform "Tashlich" on the first afternoon - a ritual involving casting off sins by throwing pieces of bread into flowing water.

Activities on Rosh Hashana Eve:

1. Family Gatherings: People gather for festive meals with family and friends.
2. Prayer Services: Many attend Erev Rosh Hashana services at synagogues where special liturgies like "Kiddush" are recited.
3. Candle Lighting: The holiday begins with women lighting candles at home.
4. Greeting Each Other: Exchanging greetings like "Shanah Tovah" (Good Year) or "L'shanah tovah tikatevu v’tichatemu" (May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year).

While customs may vary slightly between communities, these observances unite Jewish people across Israel in welcoming a new year with hope and spirituality.