Rabbi Explains Spiritual Significance of Rosh Hashanah Falling on Shabbat

As the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, begins on Shabbat this year, Rabbi Ariel Goren, head of the Nobel Laureates Community in Rishon LeZion, addressed public anxieties stemming from the absence of the traditional shofar blast on the Sabbath.

Rabbi Goren explained that while some feel a sense of foreboding due to the lack of the shofar, particularly after the October 7th attacks, the sanctity of Shabbat itself carries a profound spiritual message of mercy, tranquility, and hope for the coming year. He acknowledged that the shofar symbolizes victory and strength, and its absence can lead to feelings of bad luck, a sentiment historically rooted in certain events.

However, Rabbi Goren countered this by highlighting that years in which Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat have also seen significant positive historical occurrences, such as the Israelites entering the Land of Israel and the forgiveness of the Golden Calf sin. He likened this to the business principle that greater risk can lead to greater reward.

The prohibition against blowing the shofar on Shabbat is a rabbinic ordinance, enacted to prevent people from carrying the shofar in public to learn how to blow it, thereby violating the Sabbath. Spiritually, Rabbi Goren stated, the heightened holiness of Shabbat naturally evokes mercy and softens divine judgment, effectively replacing the need for the physical shofar blast.

He emphasized the power of positive speech, suggesting that an optimistic outlook can manifest a good year, referencing the Talmudic concept that "everything follows the mouth." He also noted that this year is unique, occurring only once every 27 years, with major holidays falling on Shabbat, and that the year beginning on Shabbat should be one of rest and pleasure, as termed by the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Connecting holiday customs to current events, Rabbi Goren interpreted the tradition of eating a fish head as a call for unity and connection within the Jewish people, rather than individualistic ambition. He concluded with a prayer for a year of redemption, peace, and blessing.