Rosh Hashanah is commonly known as the Jewish New Year and occurs on the first and second days of the Hebrew month of Tishri. In Hebrew, Rosh Hashanah literally means, “head of the year” or “first of the year.”

Rosh Hashana is also known as the “Yom Hadin”, Day of Judgment day. The shofar (ram’s horn) is traditionally blown on Rosh Hashana.  The sound of the shofar is intended to awaken the listeners from their “slumbers” and alert them to prepare and repent for the coming judgment.

Rosh Hashana is full of symbolism; the round Challah bread representing the cycle of time, and most commonly the sweet taste of apples dipped in honey; to symbolise the sweet year we hope to have ahead of us.

On both nights of Rosh Hashanah, it is customary for symbolic foods to be eaten to symbolize our prayers and hopes for a sweet new year. Many of these foods were specifically chosen because their Hebrew names are related to other Hebrew words that convey our wishes for the coming year. An accompanying prayer is recited, expressing our wishes inherent in these words and foods.