Jerusalem Post describes signs of autumn in Israel ahead of Rosh Hashanah
In an opinion column about Israel, the Jerusalem Post described seasonal changes that become noticeable as Rosh Hashanah approaches. After the summer heat, dawn comes later, darker clouds and a cool wind appear, while recent rains have become another sign of the changing season.
The article notes that during summer, the heat in the country is felt early in the morning. In the month of Tishrei, the land in Israel, according to the columnist’s observation, has a golden and dusty appearance, and the air carries the scent of sweet figs.
Autumn and the beginning of the year
In Jewish tradition, both Rosh Hashanah and Passover are associated with the beginning of the year, although these holidays fall in different seasons. Nisan, which falls in spring, is called the first month of the year in the Book of Exodus and is associated with the Exodus from Egypt.
At the same time, the autumn Feast of Ingathering is mentioned in the Book of Exodus in connection with the end or turning of the year. The day now called Rosh Hashanah is described in the Torah as the first day of the seventh month and a holy day marked by loud sounds.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
The column provides a common explanation for the two calendar counts: one is associated with the life of the people and the Exodus, while the other is associated with the life of the land and humanity.
Fields before sowing
Autumn in Israel, according to the author’s description, has no abrupt transition: there are no frosts or changing leaf colors. During a recent journey in the north of the country, the column mentions ripe grapes as well as green and hard olives on the trees. After five months without rain, the soil remains dry and cracked.
The author links this period, when the last fruits are already ripening and the fields are preparing for sowing, with the special meaning of Rosh Hashanah. The article also mentions Maimonides’ interpretation, according to which the sound of the shofar should awaken people from spiritual sleep.
