The Jewish New Year is here – Rosh Hashanah & the Feast of Trumpets
This is the time of the year when the nation of Israel is entering its High Holiday season which include in fast succession the (1) Feast of Trumpets, (2) Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement), and (3) the Feast of Tabernacles. Within a short time span of just 21 days during the seventh month of the Hebraic biblical year, the final three feasts (of the seven feasts that the Lord commanded Moses) will soon be celebrated. These feasts describe, through prophetic types and symbols, the final acts of God’s redemption plan.
Putting it shortly, the Feast of Trumpets (which gained the status of Israel’s New Year’s celebration) is a call to pay attention and enter a period of introspection and repentance. Ten days later Israel will observe the solemn Day of Atonement which speaks about humanity’s desperate need for a Savior who will secure an atonement and forgiveness for our sinful and fallen condition. And lastly, on the 15th day of the seventh month of the Hebraic year comes the longest and the happiest Feast of Tabernacles which reminds us of God’s ultimate desire to dwell in the midst of His people in His Kingdom of peace and joy.
One of the many themes that fill our Jewish New Year’s celebration is the Kingship of the God of Israel. Much of the traditional prayer service in our synagogues incorporates celebratory Psalms and Hymns declaring the lordship of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob over His people, His land, and His entire creation. The liturgy includes this declaration:
“The Lord reigns! The Lord has reigned! The Lord will reign forever and to eternity!”
This congregational confession that will be heard loud and clear in all our synagogues and places of worship strengthens the heart of all who face challenges; whether health issues, relational pain, or economic difficulties. This reminder of God’s lordship over our lives today, yesterday, and tomorrow is a source of strength for all who put their faith and trust in Him. There is no stronger foundation in the life of the person of faith than the confidence that the Creator of heaven and earth rules over us continuously, regardless of our changing and temporary circumstances. The result is that our faith is strengthened, and the Bible teaches us that “… this is the victory that has overcome the world; our faith.” (I-John 5:4).
Indeed, faith is our victory, and this is a very good time of year to build it up. The Feast of Trumpets, Rosh Hashanah, our Jewish New Year, is a very appropriate season to lift up our eyes, seek the Lord afresh, and face the future with renewed vision. With God’s help and by His grace, we are looking forward to this New Year while holding in our hearts the promise of God, saying, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Happy Jewish New Year
from your Sar-El team