The New Moon Celebration: An Ancient Jewish Tradition

            In our modern society the daily “To Do List” has become an integral part of our lives.  Every day is cluttered with paying the bills and putting out the garbage, yet it is important to remember to take care of your spiritual life as well. One way to accomplish this goal is by observing the celebration of Rosh Chodesh (pronounced ROOSH KOO-desh ) each month.  While many religions and cultures have celebrations when the moon is full, the celebration of Rosh Chodesh occurs during the new moon period, just as the first glimpse of the new moon occurs.

Rosh Chodesh

This new moon festival is first mentioned in the Book of Numbers (10:10) "And on your joyous occasions - your fixed festivals and new moon days - you shall sound the trumpets over your burnt offerings and your sacrifices of well-being." Four thousand years ago, after the sun set, with only the shimmering stars in the sky, the loud blasts of a ram’s horn or shofar (show- FAR) filled the air.  The sound announced to the gathered people, “I am here.”  Despite the darkness God’s presence could be felt close by.  The community rejoiced in the knowledge there was a greater force, a Higher Power, in the universe governing the cycles of the moon, the sun, and the stars. 

A Modern Experience

Back then there was no light pollution from street lights to interfer with your spiritual experience. Try turning off all your lights at your house and go into your backyard to rediscover this ancient experience.  Take a few mintues to soak in the peaceful moment while listening to the night time sounds of birds and other creatures.  Relax and meditate knowing a Higher Power is watching over everyone, including you.

The new moon of Rosh Chodesh marks the beginning of a renewal process. It is a time for introspection and reflection on last month’s hopes and failures.  It is a time to think about the new month’s goals and desires.  Every month is an new opportunity to reconnect with God and your higher spiritual self to rediscover your spiritual destiny.  This month remember to spend time outdoors at night under the twinkling stars thinking about your place in the vast universe.