Rosh Hashanah (Continued) - ראש השנה

So far, this all sounds like serious stuff, so why is Rosh Hashana not a solemn fast day?  It is because on Rosh Hashana, we also celebrate by remembering that G-d created Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, on this day and gave them the gift of life and laid down civil rules:

Respect the life, family and property of your fellow. Treat the creatures of your planet kindly. Do charity and uphold justice. Do these not only because it makes sense to you or because it ‘’feels right”, but because as a subject of G-d you accept his law.

Thus, Rosh Hashana is not only a celebration of the Jewish New Year, it is also a festival of remembrance and a day of judgement, focusing on people and their relationship with G-d.

The Ten Days of Awe (Aseret Y’mai Teshuvah), those between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, are a time for spiritual cleansing, following the reflection and resolution of Rosh Hashana. This is your last chance before Yom Kippur to repent and make amends for any wrongs committed during the year.  Many Jewish people believe that Teshuva, (opportunity to repent) is available at any time during the year, not just during the Ten Days of Awe.

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