1. Blowing the Shofar: The central observance of Rosh Hashanah is the sounding of the shofar, a ram's horn trumpet. The shofar is blown during synagogue services on both the first and second day of the holiday. It symbolizes the call to repentance and serves as a reminder of God's presence and authority.
2. Prayer Services: Special prayers and liturgy are recited during the Rosh Hashanah services. The prayers focus on themes of repentance, self-reflection, and the renewal of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. The Amidah, or standing prayer, includes additional prayers specific to Rosh Hashanah, such as the "Malchiyot" (declarations of God's kingship), "Zikronot" (remembrance of God's acts of salvation), and "Shofarot" (prayers related to the shofar).
3. Repentance (Teshuvah): Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the High Holy Days (Yamim Noraim), a period of intense spiritual reflection and repentance. Jews are encouraged to examine their actions and relationships, seek forgiveness from both God and others, and make amends for past mistakes. Repentance is considered a crucial aspect of this holiday and is seen as a way to prepare for the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur).
4. Tashlich: Another significant custom observed on Rosh Hashanah is the ritual of Tashlich. This involves symbolically casting away sins by throwing crumbs or small objects into a natural body of water, such as a river or the sea. Tashlich is performed on the first day of Rosh Hashanah, preferably near a river or other water source.
5. Festive Meals: Rosh Hashanah is also marked by festive meals shared with family and friends. Traditional foods are served, often symbolizing blessings and prosperity for the coming year. Symbolic foods include apples dipped in honey, pomegranates, sweet challah bread, and round challah dipped in salt.
In summary, the feast of trumpets, or Rosh Hashanah, required Jews to blow the shofar, participate in special prayer services, engage in repentance, perform the Tashlich ritual, and share festive meals. These observances held deep religious and spiritual significance and were central to the celebration of the Jewish New Year.