Which special blessing is recited at candle lighting and festive meals on Rosh Hashanah? Shehecheyanu is the blessing traditionally recited to thank God for allowing a person to reach a special occasion.
Its Hebrew name means “Who has given us life,” from the opening words of the blessing. On Rosh Hashanah, it commonly accompanies holiday candle lighting and the Kiddush over wine at the festive meal. The blessing marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year as a distinct, joyous time.
Shehecheyanu is not exclusive to Rosh Hashanah. It is also said at the start of several Jewish festivals and when experiencing certain infrequent pleasures, such as eating a seasonal fruit for the first time. A common mix-up is confusing it with Hallel, a group of Psalms, or Aleinu, a concluding prayer. On the second night of Rosh Hashanah, customs differ: some communities use a new fruit or garment while reciting Shehecheyanu, while others rely on the holiday itself.