Israel is an ancient and multinational state that is attractive not only for its history, but also for its traditions. Although Judaism is widespread in most of the country, but, nevertheless, both pilgrims and tourists love to visit Israel on the eve of the New Year holidays.
Israel is an ancient and multinational state that is attractive not only for its history, but also for its traditions. Although Judaism is widespread in most of the country, but, nevertheless, pilgrims and tourists love to visit Israel on the eve of the New Year holidays.
European Christmas
The most visited city in Israel on the eve of Christmas is Bethlehem, or as it is also called, Beth Lehem, which is located on the western bank of the Jordan River. The city is famous for the most ancient temple, which was built on the Holy Land in the 6th century AD. It is here that the traditional Christmas service is held annually, with which they begin to celebrate the New Year and Christmas. At the same time, everyone can attend the service, regardless of religion. On Christmas Eve, Beth-Lehem himself is transformed. Bright illumination, garlands, fluffy fir trees and festive illustrations permeate the city. Of course, Christmas in Bethlehem begins with a festive service, which takes place both in the Upper Cathedral Church and in the cave of the Nativity. It is noteworthy that the Christmas service is held in several languages at once.
And although Israel is a country where it is not customary to celebrate the European New Year, after the church service the Russian diaspora holds festive processions, street fairs and religious processions. Christians celebrate the New Year with family and friends, while Arabs celebrate with loud fireworks, cheerful Arabic music and a festive feast.
In a Muslim country, it is not customary to celebrate the New Year and Christmas at the state level, so the days of the holiday are not considered days off.
Jewish New Year
The Muslim part of the Israeli population celebrates the New Year, or as it is called Rosh Hashanah, in September. The holiday is dedicated not only to the coming of the new year, but also to the creation of the world. Rosh Hashanah, unlike the European New Year, is usually celebrated at the state level. The main preparation for the holiday is a kind of cleansing, analysis of past actions and decisions. By tradition, the festive table should symbolize the best wishes, so for the Jewish New Year it is customary to cook dishes from carrots, apples or beets, fish and pomegranates. According to legends, there are as many grains in pomegranate as there are commandments in Judaism, therefore this particular fruit should be included in the festive menu. Another sweet New Year's tradition is to eat bread, over which the Benedict was read, dipping it in honey - the main symbol of the “sweet life”.
In addition, it should be noted that Rosh Hashanah symbolizes the beginning of the so-called "days of awe", which end with the day of forgiveness and redemption. "Days of Awe" last for one decade. This time is necessary for believers to comprehend all the mistakes they have made and to repent. The belief says that during this period a Divine decision is made, which will influence the fate of a person in the coming year. Another tradition of New Year's cleansing is to ask for forgiveness from friends and loved ones, as well as wish each other to be included in the Book of Life. On the days of Rosh Hashanah, festive services are held throughout the country, since during this period it is customary for Jews to pray a lot and sincerely.
