First Babies of New Jewish Year Born on Rosh Hashanah Eve

The first babies of the new Jewish year, 5787, were born across Israel on Friday evening, September 13, coinciding with the eve of Rosh Hashanah. Hospitals nationwide saw the arrival of newborns as many families gathered for holiday meals.

Among the new parents are Chen and Tom Muskat from Ramat Gan, who welcomed their first daughter. Chen Muskat shared that she was experiencing labor pains at home and informed their families they would miss the holiday meal, a decision met with understanding and joy. The couple is considering names for their daughter related to the holiday, with "Duvshanit" (a honey-based pastry) and "Tishrei" (the Hebrew month of Rosh Hashanah) being discussed. Chen added that their daughter's official birthday will now be celebrated with an apple and honey cake on Rosh Hashanah.

A unique birth occurred at Sheba Medical Center, where Tair Aligula gave birth to her second daughter on the exact same Hebrew date she was born 31 years prior, also on the eve of Rosh Hashanah. Aligula expressed gratitude to her husband and the medical staff for the delivery.

For hospital staff, the holiday eve is a busy yet exciting time. Dana Atir, deputy head nurse at Meir Medical Center, noted that some volunteers wish to work in delivery rooms on the holiday, finding the atmosphere festive and joyous. The arrival of new life on such a significant holiday marks a sweet beginning for the families and a new tradition of celebrating birthdays alongside Rosh Hashanah meals.