Rosh Hashanah ("head of the year") is the Jewish New Year, observed on the 1st and 2nd days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei. It is one of the High Holy Days, beginning a period of reflection and repentance culminating in Yom Kippur.
Rosh Hashanah originates in the Torah (Leviticus 23:23-25). It marks the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve and is considered a Day of Judgment when God reviews each person's actions.
Shofar (ram's horn) blown daily during the month before and during synagogue services. Round challah bread (symbolizing the cycle of the year). Apples dipped in honey (for a sweet new year). Tashlich — symbolic casting of sins into a body of water.
Apples and honey. Round challah. Pomegranates. Honey cake. Fish heads (for being "head" not "tail" — Yiddish symbolism). Tzimmes (sweet carrot stew).
"Shanah Tovah" (Good year) · "L'Shanah Tovah Tikateivu" (May you be inscribed for a good year)
Public holiday in Israel (2 days). All offices, businesses, schools, and most restaurants close. Public transport runs minimal schedules.