Rosh Hashanah is a Jewish holiday dedicated to the creation of the world. It symbolizes the end of the outgoing year and the beginning of a new year. According to the existing tradition, in the days of Rosh Hashanah in the Book of Life, God marks the fate of each of the people that awaits him in the coming year. Sincere genuine belief that God wishes people well-being and well-being turns this day into a happy holiday.
Rosh Hashanah literally means "Head of the Year," which is the most commonly used name for the Jewish New Year. On this day, Jews are preparing for the coming year, analyzing the actions committed in the past year. In thinking about the future, Jews ask for health, harmony and peace. All Israel celebrates Rosh Hashanah for two days: the 1st and 2nd of the Hebrew month of Tishrei.
The holiday begins in the evening with the recitation of blessings and the lighting of candles. This is followed by meal time. A blessing over wine (kiddush) is read from a special prayer book for Rosh Hashanah (Makhzor).
During the evening meal, it is customary to put round challah on the table. This form of baking indicates a cyclical nature and a smooth change of seasons. According to another explanation, the round challah is a crown symbol, reminiscent of the Kingdom of the Most High. Apples with honey are also served at the table. A slice of apple is eaten immediately after the challah at the beginning of the meal. This traditional treat symbolizes the hope that the new year will be “sweet”.
Depending on local traditions, dishes may differ, but almost all Jewish families, in addition to apples with honey and chala, serve fish, symbolizing fertility; a fish or a ram's head - as a sign of a wish to be "at the head"; coin-like carrot circles representing wealth; vegetables and fruits to express hope for a rich harvest.
On the first day of the holiday, people go to the shore of the nearest reservoir, where, pronouncing the appropriate psalms, they shake the ends of their clothes as a sign of deliverance from sins. This rite is called tashlikh, which translates as "shaking".
The ten days following the holiday are called the Days of Repentance. All ten days it is customary to ask the Almighty in prayers for forgiveness of sins committed by violation or non-fulfillment of His commandments. It is also supposed to remember those who have been offended and ask for their forgiveness. Anyone who asks for your forgiveness needs to be forgiven without harboring resentment.
