Author by : Sean Carter

Rosh Hashanah is characterized by several customs, traditions and rituals that bear religious, spiritual, Biblical and even Pagan suggestions and significance. Let us look at the different items used in Rosh Hashanah celebrations and the significance they bear. Shofar: One of the crucial components of the celebration of Rosh Hashanah is the Shofar. It is a musical instrument, quite similar to the trumpet. Shofar is made out of Ram’s horn. The word ‘Shofar’ is linked to the Hebrew word ‘I’shaper’ which means “to beautify”. Thus it symbolically inspires to make our lives more beautiful in the coming year.The significance of using a Ram’s horn can be traced to the story of Abraham who offered his only son, Isaac to God as evidence of his allegiance to Him. God, in return to his willingness to sacrifice everything, caused a ram to appear and be executed in Isaac’s place. Hence, blowing Shofar, made out of Ram’s horn makes one contemplate on the sacrifices that he is going to make to remain righteous. Challah: This traditional Jewish bread which is round in shape signifies the cyclical nature of the years. Another symbolic significance of the round Challah is that it resembles a crown, a reminder of the kingship of God. Apple: The most characteristic feature of Rosh Hashanah is undeniably, the apple. But even this simple fruit also conveys a symbolic meaning. An apple is an unusual fruit, in the sense that, in an apple tree the fruit appears before the leaves. Therefore, the apple sprouts without the protective cover of its leaves. It symbolically refers to the Jewish people who are willing to live what may seem as defenseless but in reality there is always the faith in God that show the right direction. Honey: Honey used in Rosh Hashanah symbolizes the duality of life. Honey that the bees collect is sweet to taste. Again the sting of the bees can inflict tremendous pain. Life in the same way can be thrust into immense misery but there is always an inherent sweetness and beauty to it.

Fish:Fish is the symbol of fertility and knowledge. Fish spawns copiously, that is why they are seen as a symbol of fertility. Moreover as they never close their eyes, they witness everything, that’s why they also symbolize knowledge. During Rosh Hashanah, the fish is placed on the table in such a way that its head in facing towards the head of the family which is away of saying ‘Thank You’ and to show appreciation for his leadership.

Pomegranate: Pomegranate is an essential part of Jewish feats during Rosh Hashanah. A Pomegranate is believed to contain 613 seeds, which is also the exact number of Mitzvah or commandments that the Jewish people are supposed to abide by. A pomegranate on the table of the banquet encourages the people to live life in an honorable and righteous manner.

[tags]Rosh Hashanah,symbol,shofar,challah,honey,fish,pomegranate[/tags]

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