The Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah (ראש השנה) is celebrated in honor of the creation of the world; it symbolizes the beginning of the new year and the end of the outgoing year. There is a legend that in the days of Rosh Auchan, God notes in the Book of Life what fate awaits each of the people in the coming year: «...who to live and who to die, who will rest and who will wander —, who will be well-being —, and who will be tormented —, who is destined for poverty, and who is destined for — wealth». The sincere belief that God wishes goodness and prosperity to everyone turns this day into a holiday.
At this time, Jews are ordered to analyze their actions for the entire previous year and prepare for the beginning of the year. Reflecting on the future, Jews ask for peace, harmony, and health. The sound of a shofar (ram's horn) calls: «Wake up to those who doze off, who spend the years allotted pointlessly. Review your souls and make your deeds good».
Rosh Hashanah is celebrated for two days, the 1st and 2nd of the Jewish month of Tishrei. This holiday is celebrated by everyone in Israel. On this day they give each other gifts and send congratulations to those who are far away. The family gathers at a table decorated with traditional holiday dishes. Of course, any person wants the beginning of the year to be good for him, «sweet». That is why on this day many dishes are served on the table, symbolizing the wish of «full», a happy year.
Depending on local traditions, these dishes may change, but almost everywhere in Jewish families they serve: fish — symbol of fertility; head (lamb or fish) — to be « at the head», not in the tail; carrots in circles — in shape and color it should resemble gold coins, wealth; round sweet hala with raisins — so that the year is full, healthy; vegetables and fruits — as a sign of hope for a bountiful harvest; apples and honey — piece of apple, dipping it in honey, are eaten at the beginning of the meal immediately after the hala, « so that the year is sweet and happy».