Penza, 17 September 2012. PenzaNews. Penza Jews celebrate Rosh Hashanah, or New Year, on Monday, September 17.

Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world. It is celebrated for two days at the new moon of the autumn month of Tishrei on the Jewish calendar. From this moment counting of the Jewish new year begins.

According to Jewish tradition, during these days a decision is made in heaven — who lives and who dies. Prayer services should influence the decision of the Creator. Introspection and repentance predominate in the holiday liturgy. Believer gives himself and the Creator a spiritual report about all his actions, words and thoughts of the past year. He decides how to fix his own flaws and faults, and return to God.

On the first night of Rosh Hashanah it is customary to greet each other with a wish of entering “the book of life.” During the festive meal they dip blessed bread in honey to ensure the coming year is sweet.