Rosh Hashanah 101

Apples and Honey

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Dipping apples into honey is one of the most common customary foods of Rosh Hashanah – it is meant to signify our wishes for a sweet new year. According to Jewish mysticism the apple represents the Shekhinah which is the feminine aspect of God. There is a three step ritual to the eating of apples and honey.

First, say the first part of the prayer, which is a blessing thanking God for the apples: Blessed are you Lord, our God, Ruler of the world, Creator of the fruit of the tree. Second, take a bite of the apple slices dipped in honey. And then third, say the second part of the prayer, which asks God to renew us during the New Year: May it be Your will, Adonai, our God and the God of our forefathers, that You renew for us a good and sweet year.

Festive Meal

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Seudat Yom Tov, is a festive meal that is shared with family and friends to celebrate the New Year. Usually, a special loaf of challah is shared – challah symbolizes the cycle of time and is usually served and dipped in honey with a special prayer. During Rosh Hashanah the loaves are shaped in spirals or rounds that represent the continuity of creation. In some instances, raisins or honey are added to the recipe. Honey cake and other new fruits, like a pomegranate, are often also present during the festive meal.

The main course is usually fish wish means “head of the year” in Hebrew – which is why the Jewish community believes it should be eaten during the Rosh Hashanah holiday meal. Fish is also eaten because it’s an ancient symbol of fertility and abundance.