At sundown today, Judaism will embrace a new year and a renewed commitment to faith.
Rosh Hashana begins tonight, marking the start of the Jewish High Holidays that end 10 days later with Yom Kippur.
“It is a very significant, spiritual time of year,” said Rabbi Benjy Brackman of the Chabad of Northwest Metro Denver. “It is an opportunity for (Jewish people) to take stock of the previous year and renew their commitment to Judaism.”
In preparation for the holy days, Brackman hosted the High Holiday Expo for the third straight year. He welcomed guests with traditional food, teachings and festivities on Sunday.
Rabbi Yisroel Engel of the Bais Menachem Chabad led attendees on a demonstration of the making of a shofar – a ram’s horn that is blown like a trumpet.
“It reminds us to do tushuva – or repent,” Brackman said.
He said children watched as a horn was cured, sawed and drilled to create a shofar.
“It is very important for the children to participate – to actually see things hands-on,” Brackman said. “Otherwise, it is kind of an abstract religion that doesn’t have the same meaning.”
Rosh Hashana is considered a festive holiday where no work is done. Brackman said that on Rosh Hashana, God renews a commitment to the world.
On Oct. 12, sundown will mark the beginning of Yom Kippur – a more solemn tradition that is considered the holiest day of the year for Judaism. Brackman said it is the day Jews ask for forgiveness of sins.
“We are ending our festival with the release of white doves,” Brackman said. “It’s for the symbolism – white reflects being free of sin and we all at least are striving for that.”
Staff writer George Merritt can be reached at 720-929-0893 or gmerritt@denverpost.com.
