Is it offensive to say happy Rosh Hashanah?

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year. It occurs on the first and second days of the Jewish calendar year.

It is not offensive to say  “Happy Rosh Hashanah”. If you’re wondering how to wish someone a happy Rosh Hashanah, the greeting “Shanah tovah” is appropriate.

According to Chabad.org, “shana tovah” means “good year” in Hebrew and can be used throughout the season.

A candle lighting ceremony is held to commemorate Rosh Hashanah. Each evening after sundown on Rosh Hashanah, girls and women in Jewish households light candles.

According to Chabad.org, Rosh Hashanah also involves eating sweet, festive meals such as wine or grape juice, raisin challah bread dipped in honey, apples dipped in honey, a fish’s head, pomegranates, and other foods.

In 2022, Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Sunday, September 25, and lasts until Tuesday, September 27 at nightfall.

One of the most distinctive elements of Rosh Hashanah is the blowing of the Shofar’s horn, a ram’s horn. The blowing of the horn is used as a call to repentance during the holiday.