Marking the Jewish New Year – Rosh Hashanah began with the sunset. A two-day holiday signals the beginning of the new year, 5787, according to the Jewish calendar, which is marked by prayer, family gatherings, and traditional customs.
Time of Prayer and Self-Examination
Rosh Hashanah, according to Jewish tradition, marks the beginning of the year and relates to the creation of man. It is a time of prayer, self-examination, and a wish for peace and a better year, marking the beginning of the ten repentance days which end with Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
“The Jewish community was formed more than 450 years ago and lives here along with other religious communities, in very good terms, in relations we can be proud of. Of course, there were difficult moments – moments in which we helped one another as much as we could, but I hope that we are now entering a time of peace,” said Jakob Finci, the President of the Jewish Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Symbols and Holiday Customs
Among the most recognizable symbols of Rosh Hashanah is the shofar, an ancient wind instrument made from a ram’s horn, whose sound traditionally calls for awakening and repentance.
Apples with honey are served at the festive table as a symbol of wishing for a sweet year, along with round challah. Pomegranate is traditionally associated with the 613 commandments of Torah and the desire for good deeds in the upcoming year.
“Everyone celebrating, I wish you a happy new 5787 year, Rosh Hashanah, with a traditional greeting, Shanah Tovah. Good luck to you,” Finci said.
Holiday Ends on Sunday
Rosh Hashanah, literally translated from Hebrew, means “head of the year.” This year, the holiday ends on Sunday, September 13, after sunset, concluding the two-day commemoration of the beginning of the year 5787.
