DiscoverDear RabbiWhy Do Jews Celebrate New Year in September? Understanding Rosh Hashanah
Why Do Jews Celebrate New Year in September? Understanding Rosh Hashanah

Why Do Jews Celebrate New Year in September? Understanding Rosh Hashanah

Update: 2025-09-17
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In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I explain why Jewish coworkers wish each other "Happy New Year" in September rather than January. The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, falls at the beginning of the Jewish calendar year, which differs from the secular calendar we use in America. I clarify a common misconception: while many people think Rosh Hashanah celebrates the creation of the world, we're actually celebrating the creation of the first human being, Adam - the first person imbued with a divine soul. This marks the beginning of human history and our relationship with the divine. I explore how this timing connects to our spiritual renewal, as our souls return to our bodies for another year of godly work in this world. The celebration occurs on the first of Tishrei, exactly when tradition teaches Adam was created. I also note how Jewish schools get to use the same corny jokes about "seeing you next year" - just in September instead of December. For those interested in learning more about how the Jewish calendar works compared to the secular calendar, I reference our earlier episode that provides a deep dive into this fascinating topic.

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Why Do Jews Celebrate New Year in September? Understanding Rosh Hashanah

Why Do Jews Celebrate New Year in September? Understanding Rosh Hashanah

Menachem Lehrfield