A Very English Rosh Hashana
This week marked a milestone in Her Royal Majesty’s queenship. Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth and Supreme Governor of the Church of England, is now the longest-reigning monarch in the country’s history.
While the Queen characteristically played down the occasion, that didn’t stop celebrations in the form of an aquatic parade of historic vessels, adoring crowds, and glowing tributes from public figures.
Like many things English, the love and respect shown to Queen Elizabeth seem a strange custom to an American like me. If anything, the attitude we revolutionaries show our leaders can be described as irreverence, sometimes bordering on derision.
The essence of Rosh Hashana, as I understand it, is the coronation of our King, our Master. Reverence, deference, and celebration in His honor are the spirit of the day. So I think we have what to learn from our friends across the pond.
Tonight marks the King’s coronation. Come join the parade! Wave a flag, put on your costume, have a celebratory meal, and join in the joy of Jews the world over. Have a very English Rosh Hashana!