Rosh Hashanah 2023: When is it, traditions, greetings and how to wish someone happy new year in Hebrew
13.09.2023 - 11:55
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Jewish communities across Greater Manchester will be celebrating the high holidays over the coming weeks, starting with Rosh Hashanah this weekend. The Jewish new year will begin on the evening of Friday, September 15.
The festival is followed by fast days, including Yom Kippur which starts on September 24, and further festivities throughout the Jewish month of Tishrei. Families and friends come together to celebrate at this time of year, and many congregate in synagogues to hear the blowing of the shofar – a musical horn.
Marc Levy, who is the chief executive of the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester and Region (JRC), said the high holidays are a time of reflection. He said: "The Jewish community across Greater Manchester will be joining Jews around the world to celebrate Rosh Hashana over the weekend.
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"This special festival marks the start of the Jewish New Year. As we begin a new year, it is customary to reflect on the previous 12 months.
"What is obvious is that we are fortunate to live in a city who deeply cares for their Jewish community. As the representative body, we would like to place on record our gratitude to all the wonderful charities from our whole diverse community who have undertaken invaluable work.
"We would also like to thank all our friends from wider society. Your support is hugely appreciated as it makes Greater Manchester a wonderful place to be Jewish."
Several festivals and fast days are observed throughout the holy month of Tishrei, starting with Rosh Hashanah which literally means 'head of the year'.
According to the Hebrew calendar, which is based on both the moon and the sun,