Rosh Hashanah 2023, the Jewish New Year, begins on Friday evening when the sun goes down.

In Northbrook, Illinois, Rabbi Meir Moscowitz of Lubavitch Chabad showcased the shofar, an ancient musical instrument crafted from a ram's horn. This special horn is sounded during synagogue services on Rosh Hashanah and at the conclusion of Yom Kippur, which is 10 days after Friday. The shofar holds great significance as one of the central symbols of the Jewish holiday, especially noteworthy this year as Rosh Hashanah coincides with the Jewish Sabbath.

"The shofar serves as our way of reaching out to God, signaling that it's a new year and we desire a deeper connection," explained Moscowitz.

Rosh Hashanah, marking the Jewish New Year, initiates a month filled with significant Jewish holy days. Many Jewish individuals gather at their synagogues on Friday evening to observe the holiday, often accompanied by indulging in sweet foods, symbolizing the hope for a sweet year ahead. During the week leading up to the holiday, congregants come together to prepare and distribute special packages.

"This month and this day set the course for the upcoming year. It's a time for introspection and reestablishing our bond with God," added Moscowitz.

For Jewish people, Rosh Hashanah is a celebration of humanity's creation and serves as an occasion to reflect and seek forgiveness for past sins. Traditionally falling in September or October on the Jewish calendar, this year it coincides with the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath, with the lighting of candles symbolizing light and peace in the home.

"It serves as a reminder of our purpose in this world and our relationship with our Creator," emphasized Moscowitz.

Central to the essence of Rosh Hashanah is prayer, and for these two days, there's a 320-page prayer book dedicated to the occasion, starting at sundown on Friday night.