Rosh Hashanah 2025: A Sacred Time for Reflection
As dusk fell on Monday, September 22, Jewish communities worldwide ushered in
Rosh Hashanah, the festival marking the Jewish New Year and the "birthday of the world." This two-day celebration, ending at nightfall on Wednesday, September 24, is one of the most sacred observances in Judaism, blending ancient rituals with modern-day meaning.
Traditions That Sweeten the Year
Rosh Hashanah is steeped in tradition. Families gather to light candles, share festive meals featuring
apples dipped in honey and
round challah bread, and attend synagogue services where the
shofar—a ram’s horn—is sounded, symbolizing a spiritual wake-up call for the year ahead.
The holiday’s timing shifts each year due to the Jewish lunisolar calendar, but it always falls in September or October. This year, it coincides with the biblical
Feast of Trumpets (Yom Ha Teruah), as described in Leviticus, emphasizing rest, prayer, and offerings.
Messages of Hope in a Turbulent World
This Rosh Hashanah arrives during a period of global uncertainty. In Israel, the ongoing conflict with Hamas and the lingering trauma of the October 7 attacks cast a shadow over celebrations. Political upheaval and rising antisemitism have also shaped the mood, with many Jews seeking reassurance and hope in their holiday observances.
Rabbis across the globe are focusing their High Holiday sermons on themes of resilience and optimism. As one rabbi shared,
“What Jews need most is reassurance that they might maintain hope in a time that can feel profoundly hopeless.”
Leaders Send Support and Solidarity
World leaders have acknowledged the significance of Rosh Hashanah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent video greetings, emphasizing solidarity:
“As the Jewish New Year begins, we see a rising tide of antisemitism in many countries. I say to every Jew, wherever you may be, you’re not alone. Israel will always be your home.”
The U.S. President also issued a statement, pledging to uphold religious liberty and combat faith-based persecution, including antisemitism. He called Rosh Hashanah
“a holy time of prayer, community, and spiritual reflection,” and wished all celebrants a season of renewal.
What This Means for the Year Ahead
Rosh Hashanah is more than a holiday—it's a time for
introspection, renewal, and hope. As communities gather in prayer and celebration, the shofar’s call reminds everyone of the power of new beginnings, even in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways:
- Rosh Hashanah 2025 began at sundown on September 22 and ends September 24.
- Traditions include shofar blowing, festive meals, and prayers for a sweet year.
- The holiday arrives amid global challenges, with leaders and rabbis emphasizing hope and solidarity.
- The Jewish New Year sets the tone for reflection and renewal, impacting the year ahead.
Sources
1. Rosh Hashanah 2025 begins. Explaining the meaning ... - USA Today
2. France Recognizes Palestinian State in Meeting Boycotted by US ...
3. Rosh Hashanah 2025 - The Jewish New Year - Chabad.org
4. We asked rabbis, 'What are Jews most hungry to hear this new year?'
5. Presidential Message on Rosh Hashanah - The White House
6. What Is Rosh Hashanah? - The Jewish New Year - Chabad.org
7. Great news! The rapture is coming on Rosh Hashanah
8. The Jerusalem Post - All News from the Middle East, Israel, and the ...
9. What is Rosh Hashanah? When to celebrate the Jewish holiday in 2025
10. News - myJLI.com
