Archive for June 2018
Tzom Gedaliah Fast Day
This article from Chabad.org explains the origins, historical background, and ritual observances of the minor fast day of Tzom Gedaliah, observed on the day after Rosh Hashanah. This fast commemorates the assassination of Gedaliah, the Babylonian-appointed governor of Judea, who
Rosh Hashanah Infographic
This infographic from Aish.com lays out the various traditions and rituals of the Jewish New Year in a concise and visually appealing way. This well-designed image outlines shofar blowing, Rosh Hashanah preparation, festive
Selichot: Prayers of Repentance
This article by Rabbi Dr. Reuven Hammer explains the origins, significance and structure of selichot – the special prayers recited during the High Holiday season and on Jewish fast days. Noting both Ashkenazi and
Rosh Hashanah FAQ: All About the Jewish New Year
This thorough article answers all of your questions about Rosh Hashanah, including a basic introduction to the Jewish New Year, an explanation of customs and ritual foods, and how to participate in prayer
Rosh Hashanah 101
This introductory article briefly explains the history, customs and significance of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a time of both rejoicing and introspection. An excellent resource for anyone interested in the basic background and practice
A Technical Explanation of the Shofar Blasts
In this highly technical video (6:38), Orthodox rabbi, author and educator, Hadar Margolin, explains why we hear 100 blasts of the shofar on Rosh Hashanah and what we should be thinking about during
Rabbi Saadia Gaon’s 10 Reasons for Sounding the Shofar
This post summarizes ten different symbolic explanations as to why we blow the shofar on Rosh Hashana, according to Rabbi Saadia Gaon, including to proclaim God as King, to serve as a spiritual wake
Preparing for the New Year with Rabbi Sacks: A Thought Provoking Video Series
This post contains a series of ten short, thought-provoking videos to help prepare for the new year. Recorded by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, the previous Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, each 2-3 minute long
Rabbi Sacks: 3 Fundamental Questions for the High Holidays
In this short yet inspiring video, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, the previous Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, prompts viewers to ask themselves three fundamental questions leading up to the High Holiday season: Who am
Elul & Rosh Hashanah: What’s Love Got to Do With It?
In this short yet profound video, Charlie Harary suggests that the month of Elul and the holiday of Rosh Hashanah provide us with an opportunity to build an intimate relationship with God based on love and