Rosh Hashanah Preparation #2

When you think about Rosh Hashanah, what comes to mind?

On the most basic superficial level it is our Jewish new year and we eat foods that symbolise sweetness. Who doesn’t want sweetness in their life? We forget that honey comes from a bee that can sting, reminding us that sweetness may not always mean an absence of pain.

As intelligent adults we must think about Rosh Hashanah in a more erudite manner.  Rosh Hashanah is primarily a day of judgement, our lives are scrutinised, “who will live and who will die”.  Judaism is a rule based religion, actually every relationship has its rules. Think about relationships you have been in, romantic or professional, rules are part of how we live. Hashem expects things from us and knows what we can achieve. We are not compared to anyone else. On Rosh Hashanah we are expected to imagine our better selves and to think about making the changes needed. This requires thought, emotional connection and a willingness to better ourselves.

Another major focus of the day is declaring Hashem as our KING. The word MELECH (king) is repeated several times during the service. The big question that should occupy our thoughts is what role do we play in Hashem’s kingdom.  The king is inviting us to live up to our responsibilities and to live up to ourselves. During the year we often fail to be our best selves. Rosh Hashanah asks us to have that conversation with ourselves.

With so much to think about and pray for who has time for catching up with the latest gossip or chatting during the service?