Rosh Hashanah is a Jewish celebration that marks the start of the Jewish New Year and the end of the Hebrew calendar.
Jewish people typically celebrate the new year in autumn and this year it will be celebrated from Monday 6 September to Wednesday 8 September.
During these two days, Jewish people celebrate the festival by attending the synagogue, enjoying a sweet feast, and spending time with family.
The name of the festival, Rosh Hashanah means ‘Head of Year’ and is supposed to symbolise the creation of the world.
What happens on Rosh Hashanah?
As part of the Rosh Hashanah celebrations, Jewish people reflect on their previous year, considering the good and bad actions they may have made through the year.
If they feel that they have done something wrong, they will pray to God asking for forgiveness to ensure they have a good new year.
The festival marks the start of a new year — a fresh beginning, and a clean slate.
Religious ceremonies celebrating Rosh Hashanah will take place all over the world.
How to wish a happy Jewish New Year
To wish someone a happy Rosh Hashanah, you say “Shanah tovah”. This means “good year” in Hebrew.
Or “L’shanah Tovah!” meaning “for a good year”.
You can also say “A wish for the New Year and always, Shalom”.
Or you could say “L’shanah Tovah! Happy Rosh Hashanah!”
A simple “Happy Rosh Hashanah” will also suffice!
To wish someone a “good and sweet year” you can say “Shanah tovah umetukah”
Or to wish someone a “good holiday” say “Gut yontif”.
Used for both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur ““Gut yontif” means “wishing you a good holiday”.
