At the beginning of the new year (traditionally on Rosh Hashanah itself), Jews proceed to a body of running water, preferably one containing fish, and symbolically cast off their sins.  

The custom developed around the 13th century and became widespread despite objections from rabbis who feared superstitious people would believe that Tashlich, rather than the concerted effort of teshuvah, had the power to change their lives. Religious leaders were particularly opposed to the practice of tossing bread crumbs, representing sins, into the water, and even shaking one’s garments to loosen any evil clinging to them was discouraged. 

To make the practice symbolic rather than superstitious, the rabbis gave it ethical meaning. Although the rabbis preferred that Tashlich be done at a body of water containing fish (man cannot escape God’s judgment any more than fish can escape being caught in a net), since this is, after all, a symbolic ceremony, any body of water will do, even water running out of a hose or a faucet. 


Booklet Section: Introduction