what to do on rosh hashanah

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Here are some traditional activities and customs associated with Rosh Hashanah:

  • Attending synagogue services: Gathering together in a synagogue for prayer services is an important part of Rosh Hashanah. Special prayers for this holy service and readings from the Torah are read from the Machzor prayer book. Some synagogues may live stream their services for those unable to attend.

  • Candle lighting: On Erev Rosh Hashanah (the night the holiday begins), the festival candle blessing is recited.

  • Kiddush: A blessing over wine is recited during the Rosh Hashanah celebration.

  • HaMotzi: The blessing over bread is recited.

  • Dipping apples in honey: Jews traditionally dip apples in honey on Rosh Hashanah to express the wish for a sweet new year.

  • Eating new fruit: It is customary to eat a new, seasonal fruit that hasnt been tasted since the previous year to symbolize the new year.

  • Round challah: Instead of a braided challah, a round challah is served on Rosh Hashanah, symbolizing the circular nature of the year.

  • Tashlich: A ceremony performed on the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah, where people gather near a body of water to symbolically cast away their sins.

  • Customary greetings: People greet each other with various expressions, such as "Shanah Tovah" (a good year) or "Leshanah Tovah Tikatevu" (May you be inscribed for a good year).