Observtion of Rosh Hashanah (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Religious Studies): Revision Note

There are many religious reasons why Jews observe Rosh Hashanah:

• Observing Rosh Hashanah is obeying G-d’s command

  • Rosh Hashanah is a biblical commandment (Leviticus 23:24)

  • Jews observe it to fulfil the mitzvot (commandments) and show obedience to G-d

• Rosh Hashanah marks the day G-d passes judgement on all people

  • Jews reflect on their actions and pray that their names will be written in the Book of Life

• It is also a time for Teshuvah (Repentance)

  • It begins the Ten Days of Awe, leading to Yom Kippur

  • It encourages self-reflection and moral improvement

• It is an opportunity for a fresh start for Jewish people

  • It marks the Jewish New Year, symbolising renewal and hope

  • It is an opportunity to begin anew in one’s relationship with G-d

There are also many social reasons for observing Rosh Hashanah:

• To strengthen family and community relationships

  • During Rosh Hashanah, families come together for special meals and synagogue services

  • This builds a sense of unity, belonging and shared identity

• It is also a time when Jews can make amends with others if there is any conflict

  • Rosh Hashanah encourages people to seek forgiveness from friends, family and neighbours

  • It improves social relationships and promotes peace within the community

• Celebrating religious festivals such as Rosh Hashanah helps to maintain cultural and communal traditions

  • Celebrating Rosh Hashanah helps to maintain Jewish heritage and identity, especially in the diaspora

  • Shared rituals and customs (for example, eating certain foods) connect Jews across generations and locations

There are different ways that Rosh Hashanah is observed within Judaism, particularly between Orthodox and Reform Jews

All Jews would attend synagogue services during Rosh Hashanah, but there may be differences in the services 

• Orthodox services may be longer, may be done in Hebrew and may include traditional prayers and customs

• Reform services may be shorter, may incorporate English and may feature adapted liturgy

• The blowing of the shofar is central to all Jewish traditions

  • However, the shofar is often not blown if Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat (especially in Orthodox tradition)

  • Some Reform synagogues may include music or additional readings to enhance meaning

• The Tashlich ceremony is common to all Jewish traditions

  • However, it is optional in some Reform or Liberal traditions

  • Although it is likely to be done in a nearby river or sea, it can take place in a symbolic source of water to mirror the natural water source

• Festive meals are shared by all traditions with familiar food, including apples dipped in honey, round challah and pomegranates

  • However, there can be slight variations in the food due to cultural background

• Reflection and repentance are central to all forms of Judaism, where Jews reflect on their actions and begin the Ten Days of Awe

  • However, there may be a difference in the focus of the period

  • Reform Jews may emphasise personal growth and ethics over ritual observance