Rosh Ha-Shanah-- The Jewish New Year

Rosh Ha-Shanah is considered the Jewish New Year and also the Day of Judgment from God for each individual person. God judges each person based on their good deeds and makes a decree for the following year.The holiday has special characteristics which included mitzvah of blowing the Shofar.

The meaning of Rosh Ha-Shanah

Rosh Ha-Shanah is considered the Jewish New Year and also the Day of Judgment from God for each individual person.It translates "Head of the Year". Its said that God open the book of life and judges each person based on their good deeds and makes a decree for the following year.

Rosh HaShanah Traditions and Customs

On the first day of Rosh Hashana there is a long standing tradition to go to any large natural body of flowing water, such as a river, lake, sea or ocean and to symbolically throw away pieces of bread, or similar food items, into the water, metaphorically used as a symbol to get rid of their sins.

Rosh HaShannah Prayers

On Rosh Hashanna, many prayers are prayed. According to the Ashkenaz customs the prayers are said at least until mid day. According to the Sephardic customs the prayer has to be completed before mid day in order not to be recognized as a fast. The Shaharit (morning prayer) and Mussaf prayers are especially long, festive, and includes poetries.

The Meaning of the Shofar

The shofar blast marks the beginning of a period of amnesty which is known as The Ten Days of Repentance. Repentance is based on the fact that since humanity has been given free-will, and our actions are not pre-determined, we must take responsiblity for our actions.

Tashlich Ceremony

Tashlich is done on the first afternoon of Rosh Hashanah. If Rosh Hashanah falls on the Jewish Sabbath, then Tashlich is done on the second day of Rosh Hashanah. If Tashlich was not done on Rosh Hashanah, it may be said anytime during the Ten Days of Repentance.

Aseret Yemei Teshuva — Ten Days of Repentance

Between Rosh Ha-Shanah – The Jewish New Year and Yom Kippur – Day of atonement,There are 10 days and those 10 days are called Aseret Yemei Teshuva — Ten Days of Repentance.