The Jewish High Holy Days begin at sundown tonight with Rosh Hashana and conclude in nine days with Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement. This beginning of a new year is a time of spiritual reflection and prayer for Jews, who will pay special attention to reading the Torah, the Hebrew Scriptures' first five books, most of which is believed by traditionalists to have been written by Moses according to God's instructions. Above, Rabbi Lazer Rivkin of Tampa, regional director of Chabad of Central Florida, looks at a Torah printed on deerskin or goatskin, likely from Turkey and about 125 years old. This holy text is part of a collection of antique scrolls from around the world in the Torah Museum, founded by scholar David First of Riverview. To learn more about the museum, read the Faith & Values page in Saturday's Tribune. ...more

September 18, 2009

Israel came to a virtual standstill at sundown Wednesday as Jews across the country began observing Yom Kippur, the holiest day of their calendar. ...more

October 9, 2008

The blast of the shofar, a ram's horn, signifies the start of the High Holy Days, the Jewish holiday season. ...more

September 11, 2007

Once a year, Jews are called to atone formally for wrongdoings, humble their souls and cleanse themselves of sin before God. ...more

September 8, 2007

Next Wednesday, the ancient sound of man blowing on a ram's horn will resonate in Jewish communities. The Jewish New Year and High Holy Days will have begun. ...more

September 8, 2007