The Symbolism, History, and Traditions of Rosh Hashanah

The sounding of the shofar is the core symbol of Rosh Hashana of this holy day. A ram's horn is traditionally employed because it recalls the story of Abraham and Isaac. The long, high notes of the shofar suggest the sounds of alarm that in biblical days gathered the people of Israel together. The sound of the shofar remind us of our moral failing during the past year, they also assure us of the opportunity that exists to change for the better in the coming months. Jews are supposed to wear fine clothes and enjoy good meals as part of their observance of the day. Before eating, it is customary to dip a piece of halla or apple in honey and wish for a good and sweet year.

One important tradition of Rosh Hashanah is that of tashlick (to cast out) whereby symbolically rid ourselves of all our sins. Jews ask for forgiveness from friends, colleagues, and acquaintances if we have wronged them in any way.

The symbolism and traditions of Rosh Hashanah is try to eat the first fruit and vegetables of the season. A prayer is invoked that the favorable symbolism of each fruit be fulfilled. For example, the pomegranate is eaten so that that our merits be multiplied as the seeds of this fruit. Similarly, an apple is dipped in honey and the wish uttered that Jews may have a sweet and pleasant year.

The challah that is eaten also contains symbolism for Rosh Hashana, symbolizing that a year ends and a year begins seamlessly and effortlessly. It is impossible to see where one ends and the other begins. Some traditions call for the head of a fish to be eaten on Rosh Hashana as a symbol of the start of a new year.

On this day we wish each other Shanah Tovah, "a happy new year" in hopes that the forthcoming new year will be better than the previous year.