Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism’s holiest days. Observant Jews consider Rosh Hashanah and the days surrounding it a time for prayer, good deeds, reflecting on past mistakes and making amends with others. It is both a time for introspection and for enjoying time with loved ones. If you are unable to spend Rosh Hashanah with your friends and family – or if you’d like to bring a gift to dinner – Walter Knoll Florist has the flowers that will add to the festivities.

Rosh Hashanah customs range from the spiritual to the festive. The holiday is celebrated for one or two days, depending on denomination. The majority of the day is spent in synagogue. The sounding of the shofar—a trumpet made from a ram’s horn—is an important and symbolic part of Rosh Hashanah, serving as a call to repentance and a reminder to Jews that God is their king. After religious services are over, many Jews return home for a festive traditional meal.

The dinner consists of challah bread, pomegranates and apples dipped in honey. They each have their own symbolism – the round loaves signifying the circle of life, the pomegranates representing the law and the Torah, and the apples and honey expressing sweet hope for the new year. The floral arrangements on the table can also hold meaning, even though there are no customary flowers for the holiday.

Blue and white arrangements are often the bouquets of choice for Jewish holidays. White flowers represent new beginnings and a blank slate, perfect for the new year, and blue flowers represent the divine. Alternatively, some choose a centerpiece that is reflective of the meal, with harvest accents such as wheat stalks and fresh fruit.

The Hebrew phrase “L’ Shana Tovah” is the traditional greeting on Rosh Hashanah, and translates to “for a good year.”  The designers at Walter Knoll Florist wish all of our Jewish friends and neighbors L’ Shanah Tovah – when you celebrate this occasion with family and friends, don’t forget the flowers!