Parshas Shoftim opens with a command to appoint judges and officers at every gate. As Elul begins, those words take on a deeply personal meaning. What happens when the courtroom moves inward? Through Gemara, Midrash, and classical Torah sources, we explore how honest judgment, guarded gates, careful self-examination, and teshuvah can prepare us to stand before Hashem on Rosh Hashanah.

From apples dipped in honey to pomegranates, dates, fish, carrots, and round challah, the Rosh Hashanah table is filled with foods that carry prayer, symbolism, and hope. Discover the meanings behind the traditional simanim and how to incorporate them beautifully into your holiday meal.