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Rosh Hashanah

ראש השנה
Fall — 1-2 Tishrei

Shanah Tovah!

What is Rosh Hashanah?

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, marks the beginning of the High Holiday season and the start of a ten-day period of repentance leading to Yom Kippur.

It is a time for deep reflection, prayer, and renewal. According to tradition, God judges all of creation on this day, inscribing each person's fate for the coming year in the Book of Life.

The shofar (ram's horn) is blown during services — its piercing call is meant to awaken the soul and inspire return to one's highest self.

Traditions & Customs

1
Blowing the shofar — 100 blasts each day
2
Dipping apple slices in honey for a sweet new year
3
Round challah symbolizing the cycle of the year
4
Tashlich — casting breadcrumbs into water to symbolically cast away sins
5
Festive meals with symbolic foods (pomegranate, fish head, dates)
6
Extended synagogue services with special prayers

Learn More About Rosh Hashanah

Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with L'Chaim Center

Join our community for Rosh Hashanah programs, events, and celebrations on Chicago's North Shore.