September 20, 2022

Rosh Hashanah Reflections

Dive deeper into the symbolism of honey this Rosh Hashanah.

Rosh Hashanah is filled with themes around renewal, commitment, responsibility, reflection, and more. There is deep meaning and tradition around this important holiday, and for me, a core memory of apples and honey from my early childhood. Before I understood Rosh Hashanah, I understood the significance of the honey.

We’ve all heard that honey is meant to be a symbol of sweetness in the new year, but I recently read in this My Jewish Learning article that there is a second piece of symbolism:

Honey is also the sweet product of the collective within the beehive and therefore can be seen as symbolic of the potential sweetness and strength found within community. Thus, dipping the singular piece of apple into the honey bowl can be symbolic of ourselves as individuals immersed within the community and all the positive aspects it contains.

In preparation for Rosh Hashanah, think about your relationship as your community. What are the sweet and strong aspects of your relationship? What can you do this year to maintain and grow that foundation?

L’Shana Tova to those who celebrate!