Rosh Hashanah is a fun time of year—a time of feasting, dancing and making new memories with loved ones. The Jewish New Year offers some of the best Jewish traditional foods along with interesting cultural facts that might surprise you.
Besides the iconic apples dipped in honey and record high synagogue attendance; Rosh Hashanah is a unique Jewish holiday filled with originality.
Before diving in, let’s take a look at what Jews do to prepare before going into the New Year.
Preparing for Rosh Hashanah
Preparing to celebrate Rosh Hashanah is just as important as the special day itself. The Jewish culture emphasizes personal responsibility through the preparedness of a clean heart before partaking in traditional events and holidays. Rosh Hashanah is no different. In fact, months before this multi-day celebration , Jews are encouraged to settle all prior issues with others, having no lingering grudges or unresolved closure.
The importance of asking for forgiveness and making an effort towards peaceful closure is a highly important aspect leading up to Rosh Hashanah. It is believed a person’s transgressions are not forgiven until they have forgiven others and made amends or attempted reconciliation. Plus, what better way to welcome in a New Year than a clean slate for everyone, including yourself!
Now, onto some interesting Rosh Hashanah facts you probably didn’t know.
Interesting Facts About Rosh Hashanah
- Two or more rock songs were inspired by Rosh Hashanah liturgy
Scottish rock group, Avinu Malkeninu titled a rock song “Our Father, Our King” inspired by the traditional Rosh Hashanah prayers. Also, the rock song “Who by Fire” with lyrics stemming from another prayer said during Rosh Hashanah.
- Ukraine attracts tens of thousands of Hasidic Jews for an annual Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage known as “kibbutz”
The Jewish New Year is not the same anywhere else in the world than in Uman, Ukraine. This small town has held annual festival gatherings since the early 19th century.
- There are actually 4 Jewish New Years
Without a doubt, Rosh Hashanah holds the number one place as commonly
known to be the Jewish Holiday. However, there are three other Jewish New
Years according to the Mishnah.
When Passover ends and spring begins, it is the First of Nisan and the new year for the tress is known as Tu Bishvat, the 15th day of Shevat. The third new year is for tithing and animals and usually occurs in August on the first of Elul.
- Many shofar ram’s horns are marketed for not smelling bad
A common complaint for anyone tasked with blowing the traditional Jewish ram’s horn in celebratory fashion is its awful smell. It’s become such an issue that shofar manufacturers work hard to reduce the bad smell that turns so many people off when up close.
Sellers actually market them to highlight how their horns don’t smell stinky; making it difficult to focus on the task of blowing the trumpet at traditional Rosh Hashanah ceremonies.
Chompie’s is Serving New York Eats and Deli Favorites for the Whole Family!
Whether you’re in the mood for a pastrami sandwich or looking for a sweet treat, Chompie’s is your Jewish go-to in the Phoenix metro area! Since 1979, Chompie’s has been the restaurant of choice for Arizonians looking for an authentic menu that serves items like latkes, matzo ball soup, knishes, and so much more.
Additionally, we are known for our New York-style menu serving classic deli items like bagels, mile-high sandwiches, and colossal Reubens. We are proud of our long history of service and look forward to creating experiences you will not forget .
