Shofar Blowing Sounds Fun!

What could be more exciting than learning about an ancient Jewish tradition and then making a shofar to take home? Students at Temple Sholom of West Essex recently had the opportunity to do both as they prepared to celebrate Rosh Hashanah. On Sept. 9, Rabbi Yisroel Rosenblum of Living Legacy and the Shofar Factory visited the Temple to introduce students to the fascinating history, craftsmanship, and tradition behind the shofar. The program offered children a hands-on look at where shofars come from, what makes a shofar kosher, and why different shofars can produce different sounds.

Students learned that shofars are made from animal horns, which are composed of keratin, and can come from animals such as rams, sheep, goats, and antelope. They also discovered that not every shofar sounds alike—and that producing the traditional shofar blasts takes practice!

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The highlight of the program was the opportunity for each student to make and keep their very own shofar just in time for Rosh Hashanah, which begins on Sept. 11. The blowing of the shofar in synagogues around the world serves as a sacred wake-up call, calling people to reflection and renewal, while also marking the celebration of the anniversary of Creation and the recognition of God as Sovereign of the Universe.

For the young students at Temple Sholom of West Essex, the experience brought this meaningful tradition to life in a fun and memorable way. Their handmade shofars are sure to be put to good use throughout the holiday weekend as they welcome the New Year and its promise of sweetness and blessings.

Temple Sholom of West Essex and Rabbi Laurence Groffman wish everyone a Shanah Tovah and a New Year filled with health, happiness, peace, and sweetness!

Photos: TSWE