What to Say to Someone on Rosh Hashanah can feel meaningful yet delicate, especially when aiming to honor Jewish traditions and show genuine respect.
This Jewish New Year is a time of reflection, renewal, and hope, making your words matter more than ever.
Whether you’re a friend, colleague, or researcher studying cultural greetings, understanding what to say helps foster connection and cross-cultural appreciation.
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Why Rosh Hashanah Is a Time for Thoughtful Words
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, usually celebrated in September or October. It marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, a time for reflection, prayer, and connection. People wish each other a sweet, peaceful year ahead.
Even if you’re not Jewish, saying something kind during this time shows respect and care. It’s similar to saying “Happy New Year” on January 1—but with deeper meaning.
What to Say:
- “Shanah Tovah” (Hebrew for “Good Year”)
- “Wishing you a sweet and peaceful new year.”
- “May this year bring you health and happiness.”
- “Hope your Rosh Hashanah is meaningful and joyful.”
What Not to Say:
- “Happy Hanukkah!” (wrong holiday)
- “Do you even celebrate this?”
- “Isn’t this just another regular day?”
- “What is that, anyway?” (without genuine interest)
Common Rosh Hashanah Greetings and What They Mean
There are a few traditional greetings you can say to someone on Rosh Hashanah. The most popular is “Shanah Tovah”, which means “Good Year” in Hebrew. You might also hear:
- “L’shanah tovah tikatevu”: “May you be written for a good year.”
- “Gut yontif”: Yiddish for “Good holiday.”
- “Chag Sameach”: A general “Happy holiday.”
These greetings are warm, respectful, and thoughtful. You don’t have to be fluent in Hebrew—even a simple ‘Shanah Tovah!’ goes a long way.
What to Say:
- “Shanah Tovah! Wishing you all the best.”
- “L’shanah tovah to you and your family.”
- “Happy New Year—hope it’s a sweet one!”
- “Enjoy the holiday and the time to reflect.”
What Not to Say:
- “I don’t get all the rules.”
- “This sounds too serious.”
- “Why do you celebrate this?”
- “Can’t you just do New Year’s like everyone else?”
How to Be Respectful and Inclusive
When talking to someone about Rosh Hashanah, kindness and curiosity are key. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the holiday, showing interest is a great way to be supportive.
If you’re unsure of what to say to someone on Rosh Hashanah, a sincere message is always better than silence. Asking questions kindly—without judgment—can also be meaningful.
What to Say:
- “I don’t know much about Rosh Hashanah, but I hope it’s special for you.”
- “Would it be okay if I said Shanah Tovah?”
- “What do you enjoy most about the holiday?”
- “Hope this New Year brings you joy.”
What Not to Say:
- “Religion isn’t my thing.”
- “I don’t celebrate stuff like that.”
- “Why do people still do this?”
- “Isn’t this kind of outdated?”
What to Say to Jewish Friends, Co-workers, or Classmates
If someone you know is Jewish, a simple message or greeting can brighten their day. Whether it’s in person, in a card, or through a text, the right words show you care.
This is especially helpful in workplaces and schools. It shows inclusion and friendship without needing a big gesture.
What to Say:
- “Shanah Tovah! Hope your New Year is off to a great start.”
- “Wishing you peace and happiness this Rosh Hashanah.”
- “May the year ahead be filled with good health and joy.”
- “Have a lovely time with your family and traditions.”
What Not to Say:
- “You don’t look Jewish.”
- “Do you eat weird food for that?”
- “Can you work on Rosh Hashanah?”
- “So, is it like Christmas?”
Messages for Cards, Texts, and Social Media
Sending a message for Rosh Hashanah doesn’t need to be fancy. Whether you’re writing a card, posting online, or texting a friend, keep it simple and heartfelt.
If you’re unsure what to say, focus on kindness, good wishes, and positive energy. You don’t need to overthink it.
What to Say:
- “Shanah Tovah! 🍎🍯 Wishing you a sweet year ahead!”
- “May this new year bring you peace, love, and renewal.”
- “Sending warm wishes for health and happiness.”
- “Hope your Rosh Hashanah is filled with love and meaning.”
What Not to Say:
- “Hope you survive all that fasting!” (That’s actually for Yom Kippur.)
- “Do you even believe in this stuff?”
- “Oh, is this one of those ‘food holidays’?”
- “I forgot this was happening—sorry!”
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to say to someone on Rosh Hashanah is a simple way to spread kindness and connection. Whether you say “Shanah Tovah”, send a thoughtful message, or ask a caring question, you’re showing respect for an important holiday.
You don’t have to be perfect—just sincere. A few kind words can mean a lot. Let this season of renewal remind us that a sweet new year starts with thoughtful moments shared together.
