What is Rosh Hashanah? Here’s what you need to know about the Jewish New Year

The Jewish New Year is regarded as a time for celebrations and reflection (Picture: EPA)

You might have heard your Jewish friends talking about it. You might even have seen Harry Styles tweeting about it. But just what is Rosh Hashanah?
Well wonder no more. Here’s our handy guide…
So, what is Rosh Hashanah exactly?
Rosh Hashanah – or to give it its exact Hebrew translation ‘the head of the year’ – is the Jewish New Year. It’s considered a major date in the Jewish calendar, and the majority of Jews keep or mark it in some way, regardless of their levels of religious observance the rest of the year. This year it kicks off tonight (Wednesday) and comes to an end at sunset on Friday.
New Year? In September? You what?
Oh yes, that. Well that’s because Jewish festivals are determined by the Hebrew calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar. And if you think the whole New Year in September thing’s nuts, get this. While it’s 2014 in the Gregorian calendar, the Hebrew calendar is moving into the year 5775. Crazy, right?
Wowza. So how do Jews mark Rosh Hashanah?
Most Jews will mark the festival by attending their synagogue and spending time with family and friends. Although it’s a time for celebration, it’s also regarded as quite a solemn festival; people are encouraged to take the opportunity for personal reflection and ask forgiveness for their wrongdoings over the year just gone.