This episode was originally published for Rosh Hashanah on October 9, 2024.

One of my nearest and dearest non-Jewish friends asked if she could join me for Rosh Hashanah last year, and we thought it would be useful to other Jew-curious listeners to share some of her questions and thoughts about that experience.

You may know Rosh Hashanah as the Jewish New Year, and you're mostly right (it's technically the anniversary of creation), but there's much more to it than that! Check the original show notes for tons more info, but I've copied some of the highlights below. Also, check out the Happy Jew Year! episode from 2023, with my mother and brother who are both Jewish educators, to learn even more. They teach me something new every time we talk.

Thanks to my friend and to all the non-Jewish friends who ask questions rather than make assumptions, and everyone who, regardless of creed, cultural background or affiliation, shows up with curiosity and openness in the world. You are welcome here, and the world needs you. Special thanks to Washington Hebrew Congregation, and may you all be inscribed in the Book of Life!

Quick note: my friend and I have known each other a long time, and I can assure you she is a real, credible person. But, because of the nature of her work, we kept her anonymous so she could speak freely and ask all her questions. Also, neither she nor I represent any organization or individual's perspectives or opinions, and all the errors I may make are based on my own lived experience and are entirely my own.

Rabbi Shankman’s Sermon at Washington Hebrew

The Bimah Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2196108/episodes/12958722

Ancient History of Jews in Israel: there is some evidence of up to 5000 years of the people who became Jews in Israel (Mission of Israel to the UN in Geneva, Israel Museum), but 3000 is a more generally accepted number than the one I say in the show. More here, and here.

For a deeper understanding, there is no better source than my beloved stepdad, William G. Dever, widely considered the world's foremost Biblical archaeologist (I am biased but this is true). Here is a talk on how archaeology and history shape understanding.

From the "Happy Jew Year! What does Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur mean" episode (check the link for more):

Mitzvot: Often translated as “good deeds,” the word actually means “commandments.”

Shofar: The horn of a kosher animal, often a ram, ceremonially blown on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

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