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what to say for rosh hashanah

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, calls for warm greetings focused on sweetness, renewal, and a good year ahead. Common phrases draw from Hebrew traditions, often wishing inscription in the Book of Life for blessings.

Traditional Greetings

These core Hebrew expressions are the most authentic and widely used, perfect for cards, calls, or in-person wishes.

  • Shanah Tovah (שנה טובה): Means "Good Year," simple and versatile for any setting.
  • Shanah Tovah Umetukah (שנה טובה ומתוקה): "A good and sweet year," tying into the holiday's apple-and-honey symbolism for prosperity.
  • L'Shanah Tovah Tikatevu Vetechatemu (לשנה טובה תכתבו ותחתמו): "May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year," referencing divine judgment during the Ten Days of Repentance.
  • Chag Sameach (חג שמח): "Happy Holiday," a joyful all-purpose wish.
  • Gut Yontif (גוט יום־טוב): Yiddish for "Good Holiday," cozy for family gatherings.
  • Tizku L'Shanim Rabot (תזכו לשנים רבות): "May you merit many years," emphasizing longevity.

English and Heartfelt Options

Blend tradition with personal touches for non-Hebrew speakers or deeper sentiment—mixing languages keeps it accessible yet rooted.

  • "Wishing you a sweet and joyous Rosh Hashanah filled with health, peace, and new beginnings."
  • "May this New Year bring your family blessings as sweet as honey and as bright as the shofar's call."
  • "Shanah Tovah! Here's to a year of laughter, growth, and shared moments with loved ones."

"Shanah Tovah Umetukah! May this New Year bring you countless blessings, sweet moments, and cherished memories. May you and your family be inscribed in the Book of Life for a year filled with health, happiness, and peace."

Fun and Playful Twists

For close friends or kids, lighten it up with holiday puns—Rosh Hashanah's themes of heads (teshuvah/repentance) and sweetness inspire these.

  • "Hope your Rosh Hashanah is sho -far out!"
  • "Here's to a year as sweet as honey cake and full of good challah -days ahead."
  • "Wishing you a head start on a tails-free year!" (No "tails" like the scapegoat ritual.)

When and How to Use Them

Timing matters: Rosh Hashanah 5787 begins at sundown September 11, 2026 (adjust for your location). Say greetings from the eve through the two-day holiday.

  1. In person or calls : Start with "Shanah Tovah!" then add a personal note like family updates.
  2. Cards or texts : Pair with apples/honey imagery; keep under 50 words for impact.
  3. Work or casual : Stick to "Happy Rosh Hashanah" or "Chag Sameach" for broad appeal.
  1. Formal events : Use the full "L'Shanah Tovah Tikatevu" for synagogue or dinners.

From forums like Reddit, folks emphasize sincerity over perfection—focus on connection, maybe share a Tashlich story (casting sins into water) for reflection. Different traditions vary slightly (Orthodox may prefer Hebrew; Reform, English), so tailor to the recipient.

TL;DR : Lead with "Shanah Tovah Umetukah!" for most impact—it's sweet, traditional, and heartfelt. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.