Reflections on Rosh Hashana 5786: A Time for Introspection Amid Troubling Times

Understanding the Significance of Rosh Hashana 5786

Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year marking the beginning of the year 5786, begins on the evening of Monday, September 22, 2025. Unlike the celebratory nature of the Gregorian New Year on January 1, Rosh Hashana is steeped in introspection, prayer, and a call for personal reflection. For Jews globally, it is a time to pause, review the past year, and look ahead with renewed purpose and hope. However, the start of this new year comes during a period of global instability and rising concerns about antisemitism, making this year’s reflections particularly poignant.

In the Jewish calendar, the first month, Tishrei, is a time of deep spiritual practice, including several Holy Days. From Rosh Hashana to Yom Kippur and Sukkot, observant Jews embrace a month-long journey of connecting with their faith and heritage. This year, with all the holy days falling mid-week, it becomes especially important for employers, educators, and colleagues to accommodate those observing these traditions as they navigate a busy and sacred season.

Challenges Facing the Jewish Community in 5786

The past two years have been rife with challenges and unprecedented events for Jews around the world. Antisemitism continues to rise, prompting difficult questions about safety and identity. Events like the resurgence of overtly hateful rhetoric, as observed in public statements and media coverage, have shaken global Jewish communities. A recent incident involving a Canadian journalist’s remarks that perpetuated harmful stereotypes underscored the persistence of prejudice in mainstream discourse. Though action was taken promptly, such episodes reveal the underlying bias that still permeates political and media spheres.

For many Jews, October 7, 2023, remains a date etched in infamy, symbolizing the escalating attacks on Jewish identity globally. These events have cast a long shadow, leading to a reckoning with the lack of steadfast moral leadership from political figures across nations. Condemnations on social media fall short in addressing violent actions and hateful demonstrations faced by Jewish communities. To counter these challenges, Jewish leaders and individuals are calling for concrete measures to combat antisemitism and ensure the safety and dignity of their communities worldwide.

The Role of Advocacy and Hope for a Peaceful Year

In these tumultuous times, advocacy has become essential. Standing against antisemitism requires societal engagement—whether it’s calling out hate when it appears online or pressuring elected officials to implement strong protections against discrimination. As Selina Robinson, a former provincial minister in British Columbia, emphasized, combating hate requires more than platitudes; it demands action and unwavering moral courage.

Despite these challenges, Rosh Hashana offers a moment of hope. As families gather to celebrate the New Year, it is an opportunity to renew commitments to growth, community, and peace. The Jewish tradition of praying toward Jerusalem reflects a deep connection to history and identity, anchoring the community amidst uncertainty. Many are also reminded of the importance of showing empathy and kindness, both within and beyond the Jewish community as they hope for a world free from hostility.

Wishing for a Year of Peace and Renewal

The year ahead holds the promise of change, but it requires a collective effort to ensure a future of safety, tolerance, and peace for all. Let us continue to work toward an environment where all communities can live free of fear and prejudice. As we mark the beginning of 5786, may it bring good health, growth, and lasting peace. From one generation to the next, the hope remains the same: Shana Tova—a sweet and joyous New Year to all.