Friday, September 11, 2026 — Jewish communities around the world are preparing to welcome Rosh Hashanah 5787, the Jewish New Year, beginning at sundown Friday and continuing through nightfall Sunday, September 13.
Erev Rosh Hashanah Begins the Observance
Friday is Erev Rosh Hashanah, meaning the eve of Rosh Hashanah. On the Hebrew calendar, September 11 corresponds to 29 Elul 5786, with the new year beginning after sundown as 1 Tishrei 5787 arrives.
Rosh Hashanah, which literally means “head of the year,” is one of Judaism’s most significant religious observances. It begins the High Holy Days and the Ten Days of Repentance, a period of spiritual reflection culminating in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
Prayer, Reflection and a Sweet New Year
Traditional observances include synagogue services, prayer, candle lighting and festive meals. Apples dipped in honey and other sweet foods are commonly eaten as expressions of hope for a good and sweet year ahead.
The shofar, a ram’s horn, is among the most recognizable symbols of Rosh Hashanah. However, 2026 presents an important distinction: the first day of Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat, Saturday, September 12. Under traditional Jewish practice, the shofar is therefore not sounded that day. This year, the principal shofar observance takes place Sunday, September 13.
Biblical Roots Christians May Recognize
For Christians studying the Old Testament, the date also has biblical significance. Leviticus 23:23–25 commands Israel to observe the first day of the seventh month as a sacred rest accompanied by trumpet blasts. Numbers 29:1–6 similarly describes the observance and its offerings.
The biblical text does not call the occasion “Rosh Hashanah”; that designation belongs to later Jewish tradition. The biblical observance is commonly associated with Yom Teruah, often rendered as the Day of Trumpet Blasts.
As sundown arrives Friday, Jewish families and congregations worldwide will enter Rosh Hashanah 5787, beginning a period centered on prayer, repentance, reflection and renewal.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Source: Christian News & Investigative Reports (CNIR) — cnirbc.com
