Rosh Hashanah - What the Jewish New Year is About (plus a sale at Judaism Online)

The Jewish new year, called Rosh Hashanah, is coming up in just a few days, starting the evening of September 22. (Remember, Jewish days begin at sundown.) Rosh Hashanah is the only holiday that is observed for two days both in Israel and in the Diaspora.

It's a time for reflecting - Jewish tradition teaches that we are judged on Rosh Hashanah - and for repenting of our sins. In Judaism, repentance isn't a mental event, though it starts inside of us. Maimonides teaches that first we must recognize our sins, then regret them sincerely, then resolve not to repeat them, and then approach the people we have sinned against and ask for their forgiveness. It's a complete process, and we can't leave any of the steps out.

That's how we take care of sins against other people. What about sins against God, namely in ritual matters? The process is essentially the same, except that it's less embarrassing to approach God in prayer and ask for forgiveness than it is to approach people. That's human nature.

Rosh Hashanah is also a time of joy. How can this be, when we are being judged by the Creator? It might seem impossible, but Judaism teaches that, if we do the work of atoning for our sins, both against other people and against God, we can be forgiven. We have to do the work, but the result - if we do the work completely and sincerely - is guaranteed.

And of course it's a time to celebrate the existence of this universe we inhabit on the anniversary of its creation. We spend a lot of time in prayer at the synagogue on the two days of Rosh Hashanah, but we also have festive meals at home with our friends and families as we hope for a new year of blessings.

To celebrate the new year, my Introduction to Judaism class is on sale, at 20% off, because I want to help you get started along your path of learning about Judaism deeply. You can choose between extra savings if you pay in one payment, or lower payments (spreading the course fee over 10 or even 20 months).

Here's how to sign up:

One payment - normally $699, and with 20% off, $559.20

10 payments - normally $79/month, now $63.20/month

20 payments - normally $49/month, now $39.20/month 

This sale expires on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, namely on September 22. If you want to save 20%, choose your payment plan and sign up today.

As always, let me know how I can help you. That's why I'm here - to help you learn Judaism. You can schedule a consultation with me.

Shanah tovah - may you be blessed with a sweet and healthy new year!