The term ‘Shofar’ is not uncommon in Jewish mythology. It is a symbol of freedom, peace and happiness. As a matter of fact, Shofars are integral part of Jewish culture and religion. Every year, Jewish Hazans or priests blow Shofar on their special occasions or festivities such as Rosh Hashanah or Jewish New Year and Yom Kippur. But people from other religions or who are not inhabitants of Israel, Shofar is still an unknown term and they are still unaware of its significance.
What is a Shofar?
Shofar, basically a ram horn is unique and holy symbol of Jewish religion. It denotes the opening of heaven gates for prayers and is blown mainly on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Nowadays, Shofars are also becoming very popular among tourists due to its unique shape and strange sound that it produces.
Significance of Shofar
In Jewish religion, Rosh Hashanah symbolizes the coronation of god and creation of the universe. Shofar acts as a trumpet to celebrate this auspicious occasion. It also denotes the commencement of ten day period of repentance. Shofar has also been named in Old Testament in several stories of King Solomon and Joshua and the battle of Jericho. It also designates Day of Judgment, which is written in almost all mythologies and inspires people to pray to god to pardon them from their sins. Hence, significance of this musical instrument is not only restricted to Jewish religion but also been mentioned in many other religions of the world.
