by Humera Khaleel

On October 2nd through October 4th, millions of Jews will be celebrating Rosh Hashanah. It is a very important holiday in Judaism. Not only does it mark the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve, but it also marks the beginning of the Jewish new year. After all, Rosh Hashanah doesn’t mean ‘Head of the Year’ for nothing. Rosh Hashanah emphasizes the special relationship between God and Mankind. For example, Mankind wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for God taking care of them, and God’s existence wouldn’t be acknowledged if Mankind didn’t praise or worship him.

The main event of Rosh Hashanah is the blowing of the shofar, a rams-horn trumpet that is used during major holidays. The cry of the Shofar is also a call to repentance, because Rosh Hashanah also marks the anniversary of man’s first sin and his repentance. Along with blowing the Shofar, other Jewish traditions include eating a piece of apple dipped in honey, to symbolize that Jews’ desire for a sweet year, and other special foods symbolic of the new year’s blessings. Another tradition is blessing one another with the words, “May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year” not only is the phrase really nice but it also encourages to start off the new year with good relationships. Tashlich,  is a special prayer said near a body of water, in remembrance of the verse, “And you shall cast their sins into the depths of the sea”, is also another Jewish tradition. Candlelighting and prayers, are included in the holiday celebrations along with a Jewish recitation in Kiddush, a blessing recited over a cup of wine, and making a blessing on the Challah, loaf bread. So when Rosh Hashanah comes around, remember to say ‘Happy New Year!’ to your friends and peers honoring their religious beliefs and traditions.