Bringing in the new year

'U' students observe Rosh Hashanah

For about 6,000 Jewish students at the University, last night marked the beginning of a new year.

Rosh Hashanah, which means "head of the year," is commonly interpreted as the Jewish new year and a time for reflection and new beginnings.

"Rosh Hashanah differs from the secular new year. The secular new year is a time to drink and not to feel too much," said Rabbi Rich Kirschen, assistant director of Hillel. "Rosh Hashanah, on the other hand, is a time to review your life - who you've been this past year. More importantly, who you're going to be this coming year."

EMILY NATHAN/Daily University students and members of the Reform Chavurah celebrate Rosh Hashanah with apples and honey for a sweet new year after evening services.

Rosh Hashanah occurs during the first two days of Tishri, the seventh month of the Jewish year. The holiday marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, which last 10 days and culminate with the holiday of Yom Kippur next Saturday, Oct. 11.

"The two most important aspects to me are the opportunity to reflect and seriously take stock of oneself, and spending time with my family," said School of Music first-year student Rebecca Biber.

The Torah says that no work is permitted on the days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, but work is allowed on the days in between. Many University students will not be attending classes because of this religious commitment.

"Rosh Hashanah is a time when I look back on everything that's happened since last new year," said LSA first-year student Rachel Knopf. "Rosh Hashanah helps me realize how lucky I've been."

The Torah does not refer to the Jewish New Year by the name of "Rosh Hashanah," but rather uses the words Yom Ha-Sikkaron (Day of Remembrance) or Yom Teruah (Day of the Sounding of the Shofar).

The blowing of the shofar, a ram's horn that is played somewhat like a trumpet, is the only part of Rosh Hashanah specifically commanded in the Torah. Although the reasons behind the blowing of the shofar are not revealed in the Torah, Kirschen said the sounds may serve as a sort of "spiritual alarm clock."

Over the years, many traditions have become a part of Rosh Hashanah.

One tradition involves eating apples or bread dipped in honey to represent the hope for a sweet new year. Another custom consists of visiting a body of water and emptying one's pockets into the water to symbolize renunciation and casting away of the past year's sins.

"The books are being closed," said LSA first-year student Steve Nadel. "It's an opportunity to ask for forgiveness and make amends."

Hillel will be holding special Rosh Hashanah services during the holidays. Last year, more than 2,000 people attended services at Hillel. In observance of the holidays, the United Jewish Appeal is sponsoring a food drive called the Half Shekel campaign.

For more information about times and locations of services, please call Hillel at 769-0500.

10-02-97