The Jewish High Holidays began last weekend with the celebration of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and will conclude with Yom Kippur, followed by Sukkot which lasts another seven days. This period, referred to as the Yamin Noraim, or the ‘days of awe,’ is filled with deep prayer and reflection for Jewish people around the world. The major themes of these holidays include Teshuva (repentance), Tzedakah (charity and justice), and Tefilla (prayer).
Traditional greetings for the holiday include “Shanah Tova,” which means “Happy New Year.” Often you will hear people wish each other a Shanah Tova u’Metukah, which means, “Here’s to a sweet, good year.” Closer to Yom Kippur the proper greeting is “Good Yontiv,” or “Have a meaningful fast,” as many Jews fast on Yom Kippur.
There are many traditions, foods, and rituals that come with this time of year including apples dipped in honey for a sweet new year, the booming sound of the Shofar, the spiritual alarm clock of Judaism, and many family and community gatherings. Jewish holidays always begin and end at sundown, so dinners are a big part of the holiday. The “Break the Fast” on Yom Kippur evening is when families come together to eat for the first time as Yom Kippur comes to an end.
LMU Hillel and Jewish Student Life hope to see you at one of our Yom Kippur services:
Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023 – Kol Nidre Services – The Hill (4th floor of Malone)
- 5:30 p.m. – Dinner
- 6:15 p.m. – Services
Monday, Sept. 25, 2023 – Yom Kippur Services – The Hill – (4th floor of Malone)
- 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Services
- 6:45 p.m. – Break the Fast (TBA)
Shana Tova u’Metukah, here’s to a sweet, good, and happy New Year to all.
Blessings from Rabbi Zach and LMU Hillel