how do you greet someone for rosh hashanah

You can greet someone for Rosh Hashanah very simply with a warm New Year wish, either in English or in Hebrew.

Most common greetings

• “Happy Rosh Hashanah!” – Completely appropriate and widely understood.

• “Happy New Year!” – Also fine, since Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year.

• “Shanah Tovah” (pronounced shah-NAH toe-VAH) – Means “a good year.”

• “Shanah Tovah u’Metukah” – “A good and sweet year.”

If you’re not Jewish, using “Happy Rosh Hashanah” or “Shanah Tovah” is thoughtful and perfectly respectful.

When and how to use them

• Before and during the holiday: You can say any of these greetings in the days leading up to and during Rosh Hashanah.

• In person, text, or email: Use the same phrases in conversation, cards, or messages.
• Simple example: “Shanah Tovah! Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year.”

A few traditional options

For a slightly more traditional flavor, you might hear:

• “L’Shanah Tovah tikatevu” – “May you be inscribed for a good year.”

• “Gut yontif” (Yiddish) – “Good holiday.” Often used on major Jewish holidays including Rosh Hashanah.

Any warm, sincere New Year wish—especially “Happy Rosh Hashanah” or “Shanah Tovah”—will be appreciated.