Rosh Hashanah
The Shofar
A shofar is a ram's horn that is blown like a trumpet during Rosh Hashanah services, and at the end of Yom Kippur. The four sounds of the shofar--tekiah, shevarim, teruah, and tekiah gedolah--remind many people of a crying voice. Hearing the shofar's call is a reminder for us to look inward and repent for the sins of the past year.
Read moreBasics
Rosh Hashanah 101
Brush up on the basics of the Jewish new year.
At Home
The central home ritual of this holiday consists of a special festive meal.
In the Community
In synagogue on Rosh Hashanah, a number of themes are repeated in the liturgy and Torah service.
Services
The annual coronation of God.
Shofar History and Tradition
An instruction manual for the shofar can be found in the Torah.
Food
Recipes
Rosh Hashanah, all you can eat.
Honey Cake
For a sweet new year.
Sweet and Sour Brisket
Melt-in-your-mouth brisket like Bubbe used to make.
Pomegranate Chicken
A recipe for Rosh Hashanah.
Tzimmes
An old world dish takes on a new taste.
Traditions & Rituals
Home Customs
Suggestions for bringing the messages of the New Year home from synagogue.
The Shofar as Prayer
Lessons from tradition about the meaning of the shofar.
Tashlikh
A Rosh Hashanah ritual for the whole family.
Day of Judgment
Rosh Hashanah is called Yom Ha-Din, the day we stand in judgment before God.
Making Synagogue Meaningful
Or, how to survive High Holiday services.
Prayers
High Holiday Mahzor
A prayer book for the High Holidays.
Avinu Malkeinu
The language of merciful Father can still speak to us on the Day of Judgment.
Unetanah Tokef
A religious poem that is meant to strike fear in us.
Holiday Meditation
Facing the music.
13 Attributes of Mercy
Asking God for forgiveness.