Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, began at sundown Friday, Sept. 11, and continues through sundown Sunday, Sept. 13, ushering in the year 5787. For Jewish families here in Lawton and across the country, it’s one of the most significant holidays on the calendar, a time for reflection, gathering, and looking ahead.
The date moves every year, and there’s a simple reason. Jewish holidays follow the Hebrew calendar, which is lunar-based, while the Gregorian calendar most of us use follows the solar cycle. The two systems drift apart, so the holiday lands on different days each fall. This year brings an extra wrinkle: Rosh Hashanah coincides with Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest. The shofar, a ram’s horn traditionally blown on the morning of the New Year, will instead be sounded during synagogue services because of that overlap.
The table is a big part of the observance too. Round challah bread stuffed with raisins and apples dipped in honey both symbolize wishes for a sweet year ahead. Whether you’re observing the holiday or simply curious about the tradition happening in your own community, it’s a good moment to learn. Shanah Tovah to all our neighbors celebrating this weekend. Do you have a favorite holiday food that carries meaning for your family?
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