Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is observed on the first day of the month of Tishrei on the Hebrew calendar, which falls in September or October on the Gregorian calendar (the calendar in common use throughout the world). Learn more about the observations associated with celebrating Rosh Hashanah with our educational resources below.
Rosh Hashanah – A New Beginning
Watch a video as Fellowship President and CEO Yael Eckstein shares her reflections on Rosh Hashanah, and the new beginning it represents for everyone.
What is Rosh Hashanah?
Rosh Hashanah is a celebration of the Jewish New Year. Unlike the secular New Year, Rosh Hashanah is ushered in with intense moral and spiritual introspection. Learn more with this overview to this biblically mandated holy day.
The Shofar
While the theme of Rosh Hashanah is atonement for sin, the blowing of the shofar — an instrument made from the horn of a ram or other kosher animal — is the main ritual of the day.
More Traditions
No work is permitted on Rosh Hashanah, and much of the day is spent in the synagogue. Many people read Psalm 33 and 130.
Season of Repentance
Here is a personal reflection on Rosh Hashanah from Ami Farkas, a writer and photographer on staff in The Fellowship's Jerusalem office: