Today is the first day of Rosh Hashanah, which literally translates as “Head of the Year.” For those who have lost track or didn’t know, it is the year 5785 on the Hebrew calendar.
Why 5785? Our calendar is based on the story of Genesis’ creation and attempts to calculate the number of years since the creation of the world. Of course, we follow the secular calendar on most days, like everyone else, but today, in celebration of the Jewish New Year, we celebrate another year gone by. Instead of champagne and fireworks, we blow the shofar (a ram’s horn) and dip apples into honey for a good and sweet New Year.
And we aren’t pressured to stay up until midnight to enjoy our festivities. Our family goes to synagogue for a morning service and listens to the rabbi give a meaningful sermon that sets the tone for the holiday. During this difficult year, when people still remain in captivity in Gaza, anti-Semitism is on the rise worldwide, and Israel is fighting for its survival; going to synagogue is an act of community and shows a commitment to our faith. While the security guards and police officers are stationed outside the synagogue for our safety, inside the sanctuary, we see friends, feel inspired by our community, and pray for a good year ahead.
Then, we spend time quality family time around the dinner table. For this meal, we love our brisket and share a round challah. This challah is special because, typically, our challahs are braided. It tastes the same, but the round challah represents the cycle of the year and a desire for a full year ahead.
And while Hanukkah still has a ways to go regarding songs to sing, Rosh Hashanah has beautiful music and fun ditties to enjoy in services, Sunday school, and on the car ride to dinner if you are so inclined. Here are a few of my all-time favorites.
Barbra Streisand
A cappella
Family friendly
To all of my friends celebrating this beautiful holiday today and tomorrow, I wish you a L’Shana Tovah u’metukah, a good and sweet new year! To everyone else, thank you for taking the time to learn about our holiday and traditions.
XO,
Elisa