Rosh Hashanah: The Jewish New Year
Rosh Hashanah marks the Jewish New Year and the beginning of the Days of Awe. Celebrated on the first two days of Tishrei, it commemorates the creation of the world. Communities observe this solemn and joyous holiday with ancient customs and festive meals.
History
Rooted in the Hebrew Bible, Rosh Hashanah is also known as Yom Teruah, the day of the sounding of horns. It begins the Ten Days of Repentance that culminate on Yom Kippur. Ancient traditions connect this day to the anniversary of the creation of humanity and the symbolic coronation of God.
Traditions & Food
Central rituals include blowing the shofar, a hollowed-out ram's horn, during synagogue services to awaken spiritual reflection. Families gather for festive meals featuring symbolic foods like apples dipped in honey, pomegranate seeds, and challah bread to express wishes for a sweet year. Another common practice is Tashlich, where people symbolically cast away their sins into a body of water.
Closures & Travel
As a major Jewish holiday, public offices, schools, and most businesses in Israel are closed or operate on restricted holiday hours. Public transportation runs on reduced schedules or pauses entirely during the first day, so visitors should plan travel arrangements well in advance. Intercity travel and flights continue, but domestic services slow down significantly.
Questions about Rosh Hashanah (Yom Teruah)
When is Rosh Hashanah celebrated?
It falls on the first and second days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, usually occurring in September or October of the Gregorian calendar.
Are shops open during Rosh Hashanah in Israel?
Most retail stores and businesses are closed or close early on the eve of the holiday and remain shut during the two main observance days.