Rosh Hashanah

Sweet Beginnings: How Apples and Honey Make Rosh Hashanah Deliciously Meaningful!

Ever wondered why we dip apples in honey during Rosh Hashanah? Join us as we explore this sweet tradition and navigate the emotional journey of the High Holy Days!

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time steeped in tradition and symbolism. Among the most cherished symbols are apples and honey, which represent the wish for a sweet new year. This delightful practice is illustrated in a teaching by Rabbi Jacob Molin, known as The Maharil, who lived during the 14th century. He highlighted this custom as more than just a tasty treat; it is a ritual that encapsulates the desires and hopes of the Jewish people for the year ahead. In many families, this beautiful act of dipping apple slices into honey is an expression of joy and anticipation for what the new year will bring.

However, the High Holy Days also come laced with a mixture of emotions, especially for those experiencing loss. As the holidays approach, thoughts often turn to absent loved ones. "Where will we go on Rosh Hashanah now my parents have died?" becomes a poignant question. This season, usually filled with laughter and the chatter of family gatherings, can also feel immensely lonely. Navigating the symphony of emotions is an essential part of honoring the traditions while also recognizing the space for grief and reflection.

Families may turn to their cherished recipes that evoke fond memories - perhaps an aunt's famous honey cake or grandma's beloved babka. The spirit of the holiday invites individuals to reminisce and embrace thankfulness, even as they confront feelings of absence. Rituals can be adapted, like saving a slice of apple with honey for the loved ones who are being remembered, seamlessly bridging past and present in the process, which can be incredibly cathartic.

In the end, Rosh Hashanah serves as a reminder to celebrate life's sweet moments while also acknowledging the bittersweet reality of our journeys. Each apple dipped in honey becomes a symbol of resilience, showcasing how traditions can evolve as we do. Cherishing the sweetness of memories past, we cultivate new ones, allowing love and connection to flourish, even in the face of loss.

Interestingly, the decision to use honey, a symbol of abundance, captures the essence not only of wishes for a prosperous year but also signifies the natural bounty of life. Additionally, the custom of wearing new clothes during Rosh Hashanah signifies renewal and reflection as individuals seek to start their year with a fresh perspective. This combination of sweet and symbolic makes Rosh Hashanah a touching yet vibrant celebration of life, history, and continuity.