Abstract:
This article provides a basic description of Rosh Hashanah. Commonly known as the "Jewish New Year," the holiday commemorates the creation of the world believed to have occurred over 5,000 years ago. Unlike the New Year in Western tradition, Rosh Hashanah is both a joyous and a solemn festival, that promises the possibility of redemption and renewal, as well as being a time for reflection and repentance. The two days of Rosh Hashanah usher in the 10-day High Holy Day period ending in Yom Kippur. This article describes the history, traditional celebration and observance, and the underlying theology. Click on the link to read the article.