Rosh Hashanah History and Traditions

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of the most important holidays in the Jewish religion. Rosh Hashanah is celebrated on the first day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which usually takes place in September. It is a fun-filled holiday where apples and honey are eaten to bring a sweet new year, amongst many other Jewish staples.

Rosh Hashanah is a holiday where the shofar is the essential symbol. Rosh Hashanah is celebrated for two days -- from sundown the evening before to sun down two days later. Like the New Year in America, the Jewish New Year is spent making resolutions. It is a time to look back at the past year and start making changes for the year to come.

Work is not permitted on Rosh Hashanah, like on Shabbat. Instead, most of the day is spent praying in synagogue. When praying is done for the day huge meals are prepared at home that include apples with honey, challah, kugel, matzo ball soup, and much more.

There are many distinc tradidions that accompany Rosh Hashanah. One of the most notable is the blowing of the shofar.

The shofar is a ram's horn, which is blown somewhat like a trumpet. One of the most important observances of this holiday is hearing the sounding of the shofar in the synagogue.

It has become a widespread custom to sound the shofar one hundred times on Rosh Hashanah.

There are three distinct sounds that come from the shofar on Rosh Hashanah. First, is the Tekiah, which is one long, straight blast. Second, the Shevarim, which is three medium, wailing sounds. Lastly, the Teruah - nine quick blasts in short succession.

The next Rosh Hashanah takes place on September 16, 2012.  The follwoing will be on September 4, 2013.

L'Shanah Tovah!