Chief Rabbi Issues Guidance for Rosh Hashanah Falling on Shabbat

Israel's Chief Rabbi, Kalman Meir Bar, has issued a letter of encouragement and practical halachic guidance for Rosh Hashanah, which this year falls on Shabbat. The letter addresses the specific laws and customs applicable when the holiday coincides with the Sabbath, emphasizing the importance of observing Shabbat's sanctity.

Rabbi Bar explains that while the shofar is traditionally sounded on Rosh Hashanah as a call to repentance, it will not be blown on the first day of the holiday this year due to Shabbat. He references historical periods where Rosh Hashanah fell on Shabbat, noting that while some were times of destruction, others were periods of great spiritual significance, such as the atonement for the Golden Calf and the entry into the Land of Israel. He posits that when the shofar cannot serve as an advocate for Israel, Shabbat itself takes on this role, provided its sanctity is properly observed.

The guidance details numerous practical adjustments for the holiday. These include refraining from blowing the shofar on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, specific prayers and blessings to be recited, and customs for holiday meals, such as eating symbolic foods like apples with honey, leeks, and dates. The letter also outlines modifications to the prayer services, including the omission of certain supplications like "Avinu Malkeinu" (Our Father, Our King) on Shabbat.

Further instructions cover the prohibition of carrying the shofar on Shabbat, the timing of the Tashlikh ceremony, and preparations for the second day of the holiday. The letter concludes with a blessing for the Jewish people to be inscribed and sealed for a good and sweet year, emphasizing that the merit of Shabbat will stand in their favor on the Day of Judgment.