Preparing for Rosh Hashanah 2025: A Time for Renewal

The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah reminds us to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year to come. In 2025, Rosh Hashanah begins September 22, 2025, at sundown and it concludes at nightfall on September 24, 2025. Proper preparation can enhance this meaningful celebration, ensuring a spiritually fulfilling experience.

Spiritual Reflection

In the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah, engage in self-reflection. This period, often referred to as the “Days of Awe,” encourages individuals to assess their actions over the past year.

According to Rabbi Jonathan Sacks in "A Letter in the Scroll," “Rosh Hashanah is about seeing ourselves in the light of eternity.” Engage in personal reflection through journaling or meditative practices, contemplating your actions and thoughts over the past year.

Tashlikh Ceremony

The book "Family First" by Dr. James Dobson emphasizes the importance of family rituals during such occasions. Part of Rosh Hashanah tradition involves the Tashlikh ceremony, where individuals symbolically cast away their sins. Choose a body of water and plan to perform this ceremony with loved ones or family Rabbi, reinforcing family bonds. The earliest reference to the Tashlikh ceremony appears to be in the book of the Prophet Nehemiah (8:1) which states, "All the Jews gathered as one in the street that is in front of the gate of water." This gathering is known to have taken place on Rosh Hashanah.

Festive Meals

Food plays a central role in Rosh Hashanah celebrations. Prepare traditional dishes, such as challah and apples dipped in honey. As noted in “Jewish Cooking in America” by Joan Nathan, recipes passed down through generations can add depth to your celebrations. Sweet dishes symbolize the hope for a sweet new year. Prepare round challah—symbolizing the cycle of the year—alongside honey and apples, which represent sweetness. Other delicious foods for the occasion include brisket, sweet potatoes, raisins and dried fruits.

Setting the Table

An inviting table setting enhances the festive atmosphere. Incorporate seasonal fruits and flowers alongside a beautiful challah cover. The aesthetics of your table can elevate the holiday experience, as noted by Gil Marks in “Encyclopedia of Jewish Food” (Marks, 2010). A well-set table is symbolic of family unity and invites attendees to enjoy the magnificence of the holiday.

Set Goals for the New Year

During this time, it is customary to set personal goals and resolutions. Rabbi Noah Weinberg's "The 48 Ways to Wisdom" provides practical advice for self-improvement and growth. Some goals may include attending local services and community events to foster relationships within your congregation. Participation in communal prayers can deepen your spiritual connection and create positive group experiences.

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, take the opportunity to reflect, gather with family, and set intentions for the year ahead. By preparing thoughtfully for Rosh Hashanah, we can usher in the new year with faith, hope, love and peace.

References

Dobson, J. (2004). *Family First*. Thomas Nelson.

Marks, G. (2010). Encyclopedia of Jewish Food.- Nathan, J. (1996). *Jewish Cooking in America*. Knopf.

Sacks, J. (2000). *A Letter in the Scroll*. Ashgate Publishing.Weinberg, N. (2008). *The 48 Ways to Wisdom*. Aish.com.

About the Author:

Louisa Mastromarino is a certified counselor educator. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications, a Master of Science Degree in School Counseling, and a post master’s degree in Supervision and Educational Leadership.  Louisa is the author of Spifford Max and the Cycle Pups Go to Washington, D.C., and additional publications.  Louisa's work has been highlighted in the noted publications Careers from the Kitchen Table by Raven Blair Davis and Miracles in the Divine by Beverly Pokorski. For appointments in life coaching email distantholistic@gmail.com. Thank you. 

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