Word: Rosh Hashanah
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: Rosh Hashanah is a Jewish holiday that marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year. It is celebrated on the 1st and sometimes the 2nd day of Tishri, which is the seventh month of the Jewish calendar. This holiday is a time for reflection, prayer, and the blowing of a special musical instrument called the shofar, which is made from a ram's horn.
Usage Instructions: - You can use "Rosh Hashanah" when talking about Jewish holidays or cultural practices. - It is often mentioned in discussions about Jewish traditions, celebrations, or religious observances.
Example Sentences: - "This year, Rosh Hashanah falls on September 25th." - "During Rosh Hashanah, families gather to pray and enjoy festive meals."
Advanced Usage: In more advanced discussions, you might explore themes related to Rosh Hashanah, such as its significance in Jewish culture, the customs associated with it (like casting away sins), or its role in the Jewish High Holy Days, which also includes Yom Kippur.
Word Variants: - Rosh Hashanah can sometimes be referred to simply as "the Jewish New Year." - The term "shofar" is related, as it is the instrument traditionally blown during the holiday.
Different Meanings: While Rosh Hashanah specifically refers to the holiday, the words "Rosh" and "Hashanah" can be broken down: - "Rosh" means "head" or "beginning" in Hebrew. - "Hashanah" means "the year."
Synonyms: There are no direct synonyms for Rosh Hashanah, but you might hear related terms like "Jewish New Year" or "High Holy Days" when discussing the broader context of Jewish religious observances.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include "Rosh Hashanah." However, you might encounter phrases like "turning over a new leaf," which connects thematically to the idea of new beginnings associated with the New Year.